TLDR;
This video advises AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon customers to purchase iPhones directly from Apple rather than through their carriers. Buying from Apple offers benefits such as no restocking fees, eligibility for the same trade-in deals, instant upfront credit for trade-ins (for T-Mobile and Verizon customers), unlocked iPhones (for T-Mobile, Verizon, and Boost Mobile customers), a better in-store shopping experience, and potential savings. The video also mentions a coverage map app to help users determine which carrier has the best coverage in their area.
- No restocking fees for returns.
- Same trade-in deals available as with carriers.
- Instant upfront credit for trade-ins with T-Mobile and Verizon.
- Unlocked iPhones for T-Mobile, Verizon, and Boost Mobile customers.
- Better in-store shopping experience at Apple Stores.
Intro [0:00]
The video introduces the topic of where to buy a new iPhone, advising customers of AT&T, T-Mobile, or Verizon to purchase directly from Apple instead of their carriers. The speaker promises to provide six key benefits to support this recommendation.
No Restocking Fee [0:15]
Apple does not charge a restocking fee for iPhone returns within their 14-day no-questions-asked return policy. Customers can return their device for a full refund if they are not satisfied with their purchase, regardless of the reason. In contrast, carriers typically charge a minimum $50 restocking fee for returns.
Same Trade-In Deals [0:46]
Customers are eligible for the same trade-in deals through Apple as they would receive through AT&T, T-Mobile, or Verizon. Despite some confusion arising from lower trade-in values displayed on Apple's website, the speaker clarifies that customers can access the same carrier deals when purchasing through Apple. By selecting the carrier financing option during the payment process, customers can get up to $1,100 of trade-in credit from AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon.
Instant Upfront Credit [2:37]
T-Mobile and Verizon customers who purchase iPhones directly from Apple receive instant upfront credit for the trade-in of their old device. This can result in savings if the customer decides to upgrade their phone or switch carriers early. Apple splits the credit into an instant upfront credit and remaining credits applied over 36 months, reducing the total financed amount. For example, upgrading after one year could save a customer over $250 compared to doing the same trade-in deal through Verizon.
Unlocked iPhone [4:37]
T-Mobile, Verizon, and Boost Mobile customers receive an unlocked iPhone when purchasing from Apple. This offers three key benefits: the ability to combine personal and work numbers using dual SIM, the option to add a secondary network for expanded coverage, and the flexibility to use low-cost international eSIM plans when traveling abroad. In contrast, iPhones purchased through an AT&T installment plan are locked.
Better In-Store Experience [6:21]
The in-store shopping experience at Apple Stores is generally better because Apple representatives do not earn commission on sales and are focused on providing a great customer experience. Carrier store employees, who often work on commission, may try to upsell unnecessary add-ons like phone insurance or higher-tier plans. Apple Store employees are also more helpful and patient when assisting with data transfer and device setup.
Savings [7:41]
Buying an iPhone from Apple can save you money. The total cost of the iPhone is the same whether you buy from Apple or a carrier.
Coverage Map App [7:58]
The speaker promotes a free coverage map app to help users determine which carrier has the best coverage in their area. The app allows users to compare coverage percentages, median download speeds, and reliability scores, and includes interactive maps of cellular coverage and data speeds.