The hidden cost of refurbished smartphones as market grows

Dar es Salaam. In the bustling electronics markets of Dar es Salaam, refurbished and used smartphones are hot commodities, drawing in consumers with their attractive price tags.

These devices promise a cost-effective entry into the world of modern technology, but they often come with hidden challenges that can turn a bargain into a burden.

According to a recent report by Canalys, the demand for refurbished smartphones is surging in the Middle East and Africa, with the region seeing an 8 percent growth in 2023.

This trend reflects a broader global shift as consumers seek affordable alternatives to brand-new devices.

However, for many Tanzanians, the allure of these affordable options often masks the true cost of ownership.

In areas like Kariakoo, the refurbished smartphones are priced under $100, offering what appears to be an unbeatable deal.

For many, these devices are more than just gadgets; they are essential tools for communication, education, and entertainment.

Trusted brands like Samsung dominate this market, with consumers favouring refurbished units over new models from lesser-known Android brands.

Yet, the initial savings often come with unforeseen expenses.
Common issues such as overheating, rapid battery drain, and insufficient storage space plague many refurbished devices, leaving consumers frustrated and disillusioned.

From the market
A student at the University of Dar es Salaam, Ms Amina Zuberi, recounts her experience with a refurbished iPhone 12.

"I bought it to save money for my studies. It seemed like a great deal, but just a few months in, the battery stopped working. Replacing it cost almost as much as a new phone.

I felt trapped—should I keep pouring money into this or just buy a new one?" she wonders.

Mobile money agent, Ms Halima Issa shares a similar experience with her used Oppo device, which she bought for Sh150,000.

Despite its high-end specifications, the phone lagged and didn't function properly.

"Imagine buying a phone with 128GB of internal storage, but despite not using it for anything essential, the SMS app says it's full, and I can't receive new messages.

This issue is causing the phone to malfunction, making me regret the purchase," she says.

The struggle for repair
One of the biggest challenges faced by owners of used smartphones is the availability and cost of spare parts.

A pharmacist at Sinza Mori, Mr John Edward purchased a used Google Pixel 4a for Sh320,000, only to have the screen fail within two months, costing another Sh300,000 to repair.

"I can't remember the last time I dropped my phone. It was overheating, and then suddenly, a spot appeared on the screen that grew over time.

Now, the entire screen is blank," he recalls.
Despite this setback, Edward opted for another used phone, hoping to avoid future problems.

He reasoned that spending Sh300000 on repairs could be better spent on a different device.

A small business owner in Arusha, James also faced similar issues.

"My used Samsung device stopped working after I let the battery run out completely.

When I went for repairs, the cost of the replacement part was outrageous. It felt like a cruel joke—saving money on the purchase only to pay double for repairs," he explains.

The scarcity of genuine parts is a widespread issue, particularly for older models.

Consumers often face the difficult choice between costly imports or settling for subpar substitutes, which can significantly shorten the device's lifespan and increase overall costs.

A taxi driver in Makongo, Mr Mussa Othman, bought a refurbished smartphone to stay connected with his customers.

"At first, it worked fine," he says. "But then the battery started draining quickly.

I replaced it, and then the screen cracked.

It was one thing after another. I realized that over time, I was spending more on repairs than I would have on a new phone."

The need for transparency
An electronics retailer in Dar es Salaam, Mary Johns, emphasizes the importance of transparency in the market.

"Consumers need to know what they're buying and the potential risks involved.

We also need more reliable repair centres and better access to genuine parts. It's about protecting consumers and supporting the local industry," she asserts.

On other hand, James Jumanne, a phone dealer at Makumbusho, explains that the quality of these devices varies widely.

"When purchasing a phone, there are various types available: some have minor issues, others have major problems that can be fixed with simple repairs, and some are refurbished units that have been used and returned to the company for refurbishing," he says.

However, he acknowledges a concerning trend in the market. "Often, sellers are not truthful with the buyers of these phones.

A seller might deceive a customer by claiming that the phone is original, creating a false sense of trust with the buyer," he shares.

Looking ahead
As the demand for affordable smartphones continues to rise, it is crucial for consumers to be well-informed about the potential pitfalls of refurbished and used devices.

Greater transparency, stringent regulation, and improved access to reliable repair services are necessary to ensure that these devices offer true value without hidden costs.