Apple starts selling refurbished iPhones

People who are looking to enter the iOS ecosystem or upgrade their existing iPhones will now be able to do so at a lower cost. Apple has officially started selling iPhones through the Refurbished Shop on their website.

Previously, bargain hunters hoping to score a used or refurbished iPhone at a discount would have to go through third-party vendors, which could provide spotty warranties, shoddy products, or lackluster service. Apple, a company known for their high level of customer and product support, is offering a one-year warranty with the refurbished devices, the same warranty included with new iPhones.

The phones will ship with the typical iPhone accessories: Apple’s EarPod headphones, a Lightning to USB cable, a USB power adapter, and the usual documentation. The refurbished iPhones will also come with a brand new battery and new outer shell. Essentially, Apple is gutting the internals of older phones (most likely received from the iPhone Upgrade Program) and sticking them into new casings without cosmetic flaw. The refurbished phones will be sold unlocked, but purchaser will have to provide his or her own SIM card.

Potential buyers will have to eschew the latest iPhone 7, though. At the time of writing, Apple is only selling refurbished iPhone 6S Plus models, although there are various colors and storage capacities from which to choose. Prices range from $529 for a 16 GB 6S Plus to $589 for the 64 GB version, which both reflect a 15% discount.

Buyers will also receive free shipping for any refurbished products. Should the need arise, users will also be able to return their device for free within 14 days of purchase. Applecare will also be available for purchase to extend the service and warranty of the device.

The iPhone is currently Apple’s best selling product, and it’s good to see it finally join the refurbished ranks in Apple’s online store.

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