By Esther Olamoyegun
Nigeria’s phone and gadgets industry is a thriving one, and many phone manufacturers have tapped into this yet-to-be-fully optimised goldmine. However, many phone users in Nigeria would prefer to buy used phones. There are many reasons for this, but the prevalent one is the socio-economic condition of most Nigerians. For example, people would wait for used versions of exclusive phone brands like iphone and Samsung, rather than buy the new ones.
A study by the International Data Corporation (IDC) reveals that over 280 million units of used smartphones were brought to Africa in 2022, and the number would have doubled by 2030. This shows the high demand for used phones in Africa, especially Nigeria.
Also, some used phones are known as refurbished phones. They are somewhat different from the pre-owned phones, though they fall under the category of used phones. In a bid to guide phone users in making a wise purchasing decision, this article explores the differences between refurbished phones and used phones, and what to expect from both types of phones.
Refurbished Phones
Refurbished phones and London-used phones are both types of pre-owned devices, but they differ in terms of their condition, the extent of testing and repairs performed on them, and their source. These sets of phones are devices that have been returned to the manufacturer or a third-party refurbisher due to a defect or damage. The device is then repaired, tested, and restored to its original condition before being sold again. Refurbished phones are typically sold with a warranty, and they may come in new packaging or in generic packaging. They are often indistinguishable from new devices and may have some new parts, such as a new battery.
London-used Phones
These are devices that have been previously owned and used by individuals in the United Kingdom, and they may or may not have been repaired or tested before being resold. They are often sold by independent retailers or individuals rather than manufacturers or authorised refurbishers. London-used phones are typically sold “as-is” without a warranty, and their condition may vary greatly. Some London-used phones may be in excellent condition, while others may have significant wear and tear, scratches, or other damage.
Basic Differences
Notably, refurbished phones are not new, but are not old either. They are somewhere in the middle, and can easily be relied upon because they come with a warranty. On the other hand, London used phones cannot be relied upon. Because used phones might have been sold with something spoiled or missing, they can not really be relied upon.
Lastly, refurbished phones are devices that have undergone significant testing and repair to restore them to their original condition and are typically sold with a warranty. London-used phones are pre-owned devices that may or may not have undergone any testing or repairs and are sold “as-is” without a warranty.
Esther Olamoyegun is a digital marketer with Meiza Nigeria.
