tfletche

Q: buying through Apple versus provider?

Are there any advantages of buying an iPhone 7 through Apple versus buying through my provider (Verizon)?

iPhone 5, iOS 7.0.4

Posted on Sep 12, 2016 3:23 PM

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Q: buying through Apple versus provider?

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  • by FoxFifth,Helpful

    FoxFifth FoxFifth Sep 12, 2016 3:33 PM in response to tfletche
    Level 7 (26,354 points)
    iPhone
    Sep 12, 2016 3:33 PM in response to tfletche

    I usually buy through AT&T or Verizon online because they have local stores that may simplify doing a return if there is  a problem. No local Apple Store where I live.

  • by Michael Black,

    Michael Black Michael Black Sep 12, 2016 3:35 PM in response to tfletche
    Level 7 (24,472 points)
    Sep 12, 2016 3:35 PM in response to tfletche

    I've done it both ways - from AT&T corporate stores and from Apple. Makes no real difference in my opinion. If you buy from your carrier, go to one of their corporate stores, not an affiliate or kiosk.

     

    If you plan on getting AppleCare+, an Apple Store will register it with your device at checkout. I never buy it, so it makes no difference to me, but it might be simplier that way if you are getting it.

  • by sberman,

    sberman sberman Sep 12, 2016 3:36 PM in response to tfletche
    Level 8 (39,813 points)
    Sep 12, 2016 3:36 PM in response to tfletche

    I have had every generation of iPhone since the original, and have been with AT&T the entire time.  So I currently have my order placed for my tenth iPhone (iPhone 7).  I bought nine of these iPhones from Apple.  I had to purchase the iPhone 3G from AT&T (in 2008) to take advantage of a discount program I had with AT&T.  I found that doing so, I ran into forced and somewhat less than competent setup.

     

    My personal preference is to not allow the cellular carrier to put their hands on my Apple product.  Apple techs seem much more prepared and knowledgeable with their products.

     

    Of course, I personally typically receive iPhones at home and set them up in iTunes myself.  I was not permitted to do that when I purchased the iPhone through AT&T in 2008.

  • by Meg St._Clair,

    Meg St._Clair Meg St._Clair Sep 12, 2016 5:53 PM in response to tfletche
    Level 9 (58,969 points)
    iPhone
    Sep 12, 2016 5:53 PM in response to tfletche

    tfletche wrote:

     

    Are there any advantages of buying an iPhone 7 through Apple versus buying through my provider (Verizon)?

    Your provider may have certain upgrade programs or promotions that Apple doesn't offer. You should certainly contact your carrier and find out what their options are.

  • by Gerald Edgar,

    Gerald Edgar Gerald Edgar Sep 13, 2016 7:45 AM in response to Meg St._Clair
    Level 3 (666 points)
    Mac OS X
    Sep 13, 2016 7:45 AM in response to Meg St._Clair

    Yes.  For example "AT&T Next" where you get a new phone every year, or every two years.  (Other carriers have similar programs.) This time, going through AT&T offered me more options in "AT&T Next" compared to what was available from Apple.