If consumers have recently received a replacement device from smartphone insurance industry giant Asurion, they may notice an odd and unique branding on the back of their phone.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- Asurion sends out replacement phones that have often been professionally refurbished.
- These phones often include a specific branding of “Refurbished by Asurion” or “Remanufactured by Asurion.”
- Be sure to mail back your defective phone once you have received the replacement unit.
Asurion Insurance Refurbished Replacement Phones
Many replacement phones sent out by Asurion include branding of “Refurbished by Asurion” or “Remanufactured by Asurion.” This branding can even be overlaid on top of the Apple or Samsung logo. This is just Asurion’s way of telling consumers that a phone or related device has been refurbished.
Insider Tip
One of the key advantages to buying smartphone insurance instead of an extended warranty is the fact that insurance providers tend to replace phones upon theft or loss.
Insurance Exchange Guide
Any replacement device you receive from Asurion could be refurbished or remanufactured, as it states in the service contract. It is important to know under what circumstances Asurion will issue a replacement smartphone. It is also important to know the difference between a phone warranty and insurance, in order to have comprehensive protection.
Theft or Loss
If your home is broken into and your smartphone is stolen, Asurion will issue a replacement device if your insurance plan is in good standing. This type of plan is similar to what is referred to as gadget insurance. The same can be said for if you simply lose your phone while out in the world. One of the key advantages to buying smartphone insurance instead of an extended warranty is the fact that insurance providers tend to replace phones upon theft or loss. Not all plans boast this feature, however, so be sure to read the specifics of a plan thoroughly before making a purchase.
Severe Damage
If your phone has become severely damaged to the point where repairs may be too costly to undergo, Asurion could opt to instead replace the device. It can be important to understand what types of damage will warrant a full phone replacement and what would constitute a repair. Generally speaking, cracked screens and slight water damage will send the phones in a repair. If the phone is simply unresponsive and it is deemed to be not the fault of the battery, then you may be issued a newly refurbished device. The decision as to whether to repair or replace is made at the discretion of the insurance provider.
What to do with the Old Phone?
Typically, Asurion will work with your wireless carrier and arrange for a pre-paid shipping label to be sent to your home address. Just slip the phone into the packing and send it out with the mail. Once they receive it, your account will be credited and the insurance exchange will be complete. You will need to return the defective device within 10 to 15 days of receiving your refurbished phone.
Warning
If your phone has become severely damaged to the point where repairs may be too costly to undergo, Asurion could opt to instead replace the device.
F.A.Q.S
How do I file a claim on my protected device?
Asurion has a robust web portal that allows for easy filing of claims. Typically, a claim must be filed within 60 days of the inciting incident.
What do I do with my old device?
Most carriers will require that you mail back your old device within 10 to 15 days. They will typically furnish you with a pre-paid shipping label.
What replacement phone will I receive?
It is up to Asurion and other insurance providers to determine which replacement phone you receive, though these companies typically try to match with the original make and model.
STAT: Not all of the phones you get from Asurion are refurbs, but probably about 95% are. (source)
