Some iPhone buyers may receive rebates

Stephen Withers
Thursday, 06 September 2007 11:53

Your IT - Mobility

Those who put off buying an iPhone will welcome this week's $US200 price cut. While some early buyers are upset about the magnitude and timing, the difference may be recoverable.

Those who purchased within ten days of the announcement are in the best position - if they act quickly, Apple may refund or credit the difference.

Apple's sales policies state "Should Apple reduce its price on any shipped product within 10 calendar days of shipment, you may contact Apple Sales Support at 1-800-676-2775 to request a refund or credit of the difference between the price you were charged and the current selling price. To receive the refund or credit you must contact Apple within 14 business days of shipment."

This only applies to purchases from the Apple Store.

AT&T has a 30-day "no questions asked" return policy for mobile phones. It would seem more sensible for them to offer price protection to their customers, but it would appear that recent iPhone owners could return their original phone (as long as it is in "like-new condition"), get a refund, and buy a new one.

Credit card refund and price protection schemes are being touted as another possible source. The American Express return protection scheme specifically excludes mobile phones and has a limit of $US300 per item, so that's no help. Certain MasterCards may provide price protection coverage - check your terms and conditions. For example, Citi has a 60-day program with a $US250 cap, but it excludes Internet purchases and requires you to provide a printed advertisement showing the lower price. Diners Club and Visa do not appear to offer such schemes, though some individual Visa issuers (eg, Citi) may have their own.