The iPhone 16 officially dropped on September 20, sending waves through the tech enthusiast community as residents across the UAE queued for hours to get their hands on the latest release. The new phone boasts several innovative features, including Apple Intelligence—a groundbreaking AI system set to launch in beta next month—and Visual Intelligence, which enhances the camera experience with a new control button.
However, if the iPhone 16 isn’t living up to your expectations, you still have a chance to get your money back. Apple’s return policy allows customers to request a full refund if products are returned within 14 days of purchase. This means that today, October 3, is the final day for those who bought the device on launch day to initiate a return.
Is There a Catch?
Some users might come across information suggesting that Apple charges a 25% fee on opened units and a 15% restocking fee on unopened ones. However, an Apple customer service representative clarified to Khaleej Times that no charges apply for returns of opened boxes, and no additional fees will be incurred.
Refund requests must be made in-store or through call center agents for in-store purchases. For online purchases, refunds can only be processed via Apple’s website or call center.
Refunds will be issued through the same payment method used for the purchase—whether that’s a card or cash. Additionally, if Apple lowers the price of any product within 14 days from the date of purchase, customers can request a refund or a credit for the difference, excluding special sale events.
How to Return Your iPhone 16 in the UAE
Purchases Made In-Store
For those who bought their phones in-store, online refund requests are not permitted. Customers must call Apple’s toll-free number at 8000 444 0396 from 10 AM to 7 PM, Sunday to Thursday, or visit the store directly.
During the refund process, customers will need to provide their receipt, reasons for the return, and other relevant details. Once the product is received, a full refund will be issued if the purchase was made within the 14-day window.
Important Terms:
- Products can only be returned in the country where they were originally purchased.
- Apple software designed to protect users from theft or loss must be disabled before returning the product; failure to do so may result in the refusal of the return.
Purchases Made Online
For online buyers, returns can be processed via Apple’s ‘Order Status’ website, or customers can call customer service for assistance.
To apply for a refund, customers need to provide the following information:
- Web Order number
- Contact phone number
- Address for goods pickup
After processing the application, users will receive an email with a receipt containing a Return Material Authorization (RMA) number. To expedite the return, it’s advisable to print and affix this number to the phone’s packaging. The phone must be dropped off at the designated pickup point within five days of initiating the return.
How Long Will It Take?
The refund process can take up to 5-7 days from the moment the item is received by Apple’s warehouse. It’s also crucial to note that any charges incurred by mobile service providers remain the customer’s responsibility; returning the phone does not guarantee account cancellation or reset.
The iPhone 16 starts at AED 3,399, with the iPhone 16 Plus priced at AED 3,799. The iPhone 16 Pro starts at AED 4,299, while the iPhone 16 Pro Max is priced at AED 5,099 for its base model in the UAE.
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