FAQs

1. What is a refurbished phone?

A refurbished phone is a pre-owned device that has been professionally inspected, repaired, and restored to work like new.

 

2. What is the refurbishing process at Upgrade?

Upgrade's refurbishing begins with thoroughly inspecting and testing each pre-owned phone to identify defects or issues.

 

Skilled technicians perform necessary repairs to restore the device to optimal condition. After repairs, the phone undergoes a meticulous certification process.

 

3. What’s the condition of refurbished phones at Upgrade?

Refurbished phones are classified using a grading system to help buyers understand their condition:

• Diamond Grade: Comes with a minimum battery capacity of 95%, in like-new condition with no signs of use, and includes a 1-year warranty.

 

• Platinum Grade: Features a minimum battery capacity of 90%, may have minimal signs of use, and is covered by a 1-year warranty.

 

• Gold Grade: Has a minimum battery capacity of 85%, may show some signs of wear and tear, and also includes a 1-year warranty.

 

4. What’s the difference between refurbished, used, and new phones?

Understanding the difference between new, used, and refurbished phones is essential to choosing based on reliability, price, and quality.

• New Phones:
  These are brand-new, untouched devices in perfect condition. They come with a full warranty and include all original accessories.

 

• Refurbished Phones:
  These pre-owned devices have been inspected, tested, and restored to like-new condition. They typically come with a warranty of up to 12 months and may include some original accessories or high-quality replacements.

 

• Used Phones:
  These are pre-owned devices sold as-is, often with no warranty, and no guarantee of original accessories.

 

5. Are refurbished phones reliable at Upgrade?

Yes, Upgrade's refurbished phones are reliable. Our technical team conducts a comprehensive 70-step inspection process to meet stringent quality standards. 

 

After necessary repairs, each phone undergoes a certification process. Upgrade offers a warranty of up to 12 months on refurbished mobiles to ensure your peace of mind.

 

6. Do refurbished phones at Upgrade come with a warranty?

Yes, all refurbished phones at Upgrade come with a warranty of up to 12 months, providing protection against any potential issues.

 

7. How are refurbished phones tested?

Refurbished phones undergo rigorous testing to meet high-quality standards. Key steps include:

• Physical Inspection: Checking for external damage and repairing components as needed.
• Internal Hardware Check: Testing essential components like the battery, camera, and sensors.
• Software Testing and Updates: Ensuring the operating system functions appropriately and updating it to the latest version.
• Battery Testing: Inspecting and replacing batteries to ensure they hold a strong charge.
• Connectivity Testing: Checking Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, and cellular connections for functionality.
• Final Quality Control: The phone is cleaned and sanitised and undergoes a final inspection before being packaged with accessories.

 

8. What’s the return policy for refurbished phones?

You can return your refurbished mobile phone to Upgrade within 14 days, no questions asked.

 

9. Can I exchange a refurbished phone at Upgrade?

Yes, you can exchange your refurbished phone within 30 days.

 

10. Are refurbished phones at Upgrade unlocked?

Yes, all refurbished phones sold at Upgrade are unlocked, allowing you to use them with any carrier.

 

11. How much can I save by buying a refurbished phone?

Refurbished phones are typically 10-30% cheaper than new ones, helping you stay within budget while obtaining a reliable device.

 

12. What accessories come with refurbished phones at Upgrade?

Each Upgrade mobile box includes a charging cable, and a SIM eject pin.

 

13. Are refurbished phones eco-friendly?

Yes, refurbished phones are eco-friendly as they help reduce e-waste, conserve resources, lower carbon emissions, and encourage a circular economy.

 

14. How is a refurbished phone right for me?

When deciding if a refurbished phone is suitable for you, consider factors like your budget, the quality and condition of the phone, warranty and support, environmental impact, and model availability.

 

15. How do I guarantee that my data is secured when selling my phone?

 

UPGRADE uses the latest data-wiping technologies to erase your old mobile phone's data and ensure no one can recover it.

 

16. Can I trade in my old phone for a refurbished one at Upgrade?

Yes, you can trade in your old phone if it is one of the accepted models at Upgrade. Follow these simple steps:

• Enter Your Phone Details: Fill out our Assess Your Phone form with your phone's information.
• Get an Instant Price Estimate: We’ll provide you with an estimated price based on your submission.
• Book a Home Pick-up: Schedule a pick-up for your phone if you’re satisfied with the offer.
• Phone Inspection: A representative will inspect your phone at home.
• Trade-in: Trade your phone for a refurbished model on our website or at our nearest stores.

 

17. Do refurbished phones get software updates?

Yes, refurbished phones typically receive software updates as long as they are within the model’s support period.

 

Newer models will continue getting updates longer, while older models may stop sooner.

 

18. How long does shipping take for refurbished phones?

Shipping times vary depending on your location:

• Greater Cairo and Alexandria: from 1 to 3 business days.
• Delta and Canal from 2 to 4 business days.
• Upper Egypt, South Sinai, Al Wadi Al Gadid, and Al Wahat: from 3 to 5 business days.

 

19. How does buying refurbished phones help reduce e-waste?

Refurbished phones significantly reduce the amount of electronic waste (e-waste) generated each year by extending the life of devices that might otherwise be discarded.

 

20. Are there any hidden fees when buying a refurbished phone at Upgrade?

No, you only pay for the refurbished mobile and any applicable delivery fees.

 

21. How do I transfer data to a refurbished phone?

You can transfer data to a refurbished phone using cloud backups, transfer apps, direct cable transfers, or manual transfers via external storage. For contacts saved on a SIM card, simply insert it into the new device.

 

22. Are refurbished phones safe to use?

Yes, refurbished phones are safe when purchased from reputable sources like Upgrade. They undergo thorough testing and quality checks and come with a warranty to protect against issues. 

 

UPGRADE uses the latest data-wiping technologies to erase your old mobile phone's data and ensure no one can recover it.

 

23. Do refurbished phones support the latest apps and features?

Yes, refurbished phones generally support the latest apps and features as long as they meet the required software specifications.

 

Many refurbished models still receive software updates, keeping them compatible with current applications.

 

24. Where can I find the latest offers on refurbished phones?

Visit the Upgrade website to explore our current offers and discounts on refurbished phones.

 

For exclusive promotions, you can also visit Upgrade branches in Hyperone Al Sheikh Zayed and City Stars Madinet Nasr.

 

25. How long does it take to be refunded at Upgrade?

Refunds are typically processed within 7-14 business days if paid by card and 3 days if paid in cash after we receive and inspect the returned refurbished phone.

 

Once the refund is approved, it will be issued to your original payment method.

 

26. Are there specific models that Upgrade accepts to buy?

Visit the “Sell” tab to check the list of models you can sell to Upgrade. After filling in some details about your mobile phone, you can check the average price.

 

27. Can I sell my device only, or do I have to buy a new one from you?

If your phone is on the list of models that Upgrade buys, you can sell it through the website or one of our stores. 

 

You can also trade in your old phone and walk away with an upgraded device backed by a 12-month warranty without paying the total price upfront.

 

28. How can I sell my phone for Upgrade?

Here’s how you can sell your old phone to Upgrade in a few simple steps:

• Enter Your Phone Details: Fill out our Assess Your Phone form with information about your phone, like the model, storage, and battery health.
• Get an Instant Price Estimate: Based on the details you provide, we’ll offer you an estimated price following our fair price policy.
• Book a Home Pick-up: If you’re satisfied with the offer, you can schedule a home pick-up for your phone.
• Phone Inspection: A representative will come to your home to inspect your phone with the latest software.
• Payment: You will get paid in cash on the spot, or you can trade your phone for a refurbished model.
• Visit a Store (Optional): You can also bring your phone to our nearest store, where a technician will inspect it and give you an instant price.