The best way to make sure a Sony phone is genuine is to check its IMEI number. Enter the code into a control program and verify that the answer contains "Sony". You can also look for differences in the look and functioning of the cellphone, although the counterfeiters are very adept at mimicking the original look in their products. Learn to uncover IMEI and recognize other clues that reveal a Sony phone is not genuine.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Check the IMEI
Step 1. Find the 15-16 digit IMEI code
One of the quickest and most reliable ways to check if your phone is genuine is to check its IMEI code in a special program. All phones have a unique IMEI which binds them to their manufacturer. There are three ways to find out the code:
- Open your phone's numeric keypad and type * # 06 #. The IMEI code will appear.
- On some Sony phones you can remove the SIM drawer cover and pull out the cart to read the IMEI. On other models you need to remove the back cover and battery to find the code.
- If you haven't bought the phone yet, ask the seller to provide you with the IMEI code.
Step 2. Write the IMEI at
Sony customers and service operators who participate in Sony Mobile forums recommend that you use this tool to verify the authenticity of your phone.
Step 3. Click the "Check" button
The manufacturer and model of the device will appear. If you don't read "Sony" and the correct model, your phone is not original.
Method 2 of 3: Look for the Differences
Step 1. Compare the color with the available models
You can use a site like https://www.gsmarena.com to view a list of all Sony phones and detailed information including colors. For example, if your model is dark blue and you can't find any dark blue cell phones of that edition, you don't have a genuine phone.
Step 2. Check the Sony logo
An authentic phone from the Japanese company has "Sony" on the back. Stroke it with your fingers and make sure it's smooth. The logo should not be a sticker or peel off easily.
Step 3. Make sure everything is in the right place
Although counterfeiters usually imitate the original products perfectly, you may notice some differences. Find a friend who has the same phone as you or go to a store that sells it so you can compare them to yours. Here are some things to note:
- Are the buttons in the right places? Are tapping the same on both phones?
- Do the phones have the same weight?
- Does your phone's screen seem less bright than the other? Aren't the colors equally bright?
- Are the Sony logos identical?
Step 4. Verify that it works as expected
Almost all non-genuine phones are made with less expensive components. If you bought an Xperia for its speed, screen or camera quality, you will find that it doesn't meet your expectations.
- Take lots of photos and check their quality by comparing them with the information you find in online reviews.
- Open multiple applications at the same time and check the performance of your phone.
Method 3 of 3: Avoid Non-Genuine Phones
Step 1. Make sure the model number is genuine
Before you spend on a new Xperia X4200, make sure Sony has actually released a mobile with that name (in this case, it doesn't exist). You should be able to find the exact model number of the phone for sale at https://www.sonymobile.com/uk/. Click the magnifying glass icon at the top to open the search field.
If you have found a model that has not yet been released by Sony, it is a fake
Step 2. Check the price
If the phone you want to buy sells for $ 799 and you've found one for $ 400, it's probably not authentic. You will not find cell phones at very discounted prices if they are not used, defective or fake.
Step 3. Buy from a reputable dealer
Buy your mobile directly from Sony, your network operator or a dealer you trust. It is not easy to verify the identity of a private user who sells a used phone. The seller should have a lot of positive reviews and be willing to provide you with the IMEI number for verification.
You can find the list of Sony authorized distributors at this address
Advice
- Always read the terms and conditions of use of a website before placing an order.
- When buying a new phone, ask for a receipt. A proof of purchase will help you get technical support from Sony if the one year warranty is still valid.