Many retail outlets will charge a restocking fee to return big ticket items such as computers. Apple is no different in this respect, when it comes to returning a big ticket item. Restocking fees can vary from retail outlet to retail outlet. Apple’s restocking fee is 10%, so if you buy an item that costs $300.00, you will receive a refund of $270.00, less the $30.00 restocking fee. Well, Apple has waived the 10% restocking fee for the iPhone 4.
Cult of Mac’s John Brownlee gives us some information on Apple’s new iPhone 4 return policy:
Apple’s response to the ongoing iPhone 4 “death grip” debacle is largely cosmetic, but at the end of the day, Cupertino’s made sure that everyone knows that “if you are not fully satisfied, you can return your undamaged iPhone to any Apple Retail Store or the online Apple Store within 30 days of purchase for a full refund.”
This is excellent news for the people who have been on the fence about purchasing the new iPhone 4. Now they have a 100% guarantee, without any penalties. My brother who lives in San Francisco and has terrible AT&T coverage has been debating if he wants to upgrade his iPhone 3G to the iPhone 4, or look elsewhere for a cell provider. I did tell him how my reception has improved with the iPhone 4’s newly designed antenna in areas where I would normally get dropped calls. Now he can test drive the iPhone 4, and see if he has improved signal quality.
You might be asking yourself, “If I bought my iPhone 4 at an Authorized Apple Reseller, will I be able to return my iPhone 4 without paying a restocking fee?” As far as I know, this only applies to the iPhone 4s purchased from the Apple Retail or Online Stores. You would be wise to consult with the store where you’re buying your iPhone 4 to see if they have the same policy. If they do, then you’re golden. If not you might want to think about getting your phone at the Apple Store.
Some might say that Apple is doing this simply as a PR move to make themselves look better. This might be true, but in my opinion Apple doesn’t have to change their policy. As I mentioned earlier, Apple is giving us a test drive with the new iPhone 4. In my book that’s a win for Apple.
Photo Credit: Fifth Avenue Apple Store Visit 5/29/06 -12
Article Via Cult of Mac