Apple in guarantee scandal in China
Updated: 2013-03-20 15:30
(cctv.com)
|
|||||||||||
For many years, Apple products have enjoyed great popularity in China. But a recent CCTV show exposed the tech giant has adopted different policies for guaranteeing its products here. Chinese consumers are now calling on the firm to end its double standards.
According to a consumer protection TV show broadcast by CCTV on Friday, Apple's unfair provisions include shorter warranty periods compared with other countries, using refurbished parts in repairs and avoiding after-sale obligations.
When consumers asked for their faulty iPhones to be replaced during the warranty period, iPhones returned them with same back cover.
In addition, they didn't come with an extended guarantee period as stipulated in Chinese regulations.
Under Chinese law, replaced mobile phones should be covered by another one-year guarantee. Retaining the back cover tactic is believed to get around this. The modified phone can not be defined as a replacement as it still incorporates the original.
In contrast with China, Apple consumers in other parts of the world including the United States, Australia, South Korea and the European Union are treated much better.
Chinese consumers are upset. Mr. Wang is an keen iPhone user. He believes Apple should improve its service.
He said, "Apple needs to be stronger in after sale. The popularity of a product not only depends on its quality, but also the after sale service. Other products normally did better in this area. If Apple continues like this, we will choose other products in the future."
His feelings are shared by other Beijing residents.
One said, "I think there should be no difference between Chinese and foreign Apple users. Apple should guarantee the legal rights and interests of its Chinese fans."
China is Apple's second largest and fastest growing market in the world. The country is projected to overtake US to become the largest in 2016.
Earlier reports
Apple Inc criticized for double-standard warranties
Apple's sales in China jump 67% last quarter
Related Stories
Mobile war to follow battle of the tablets 2013-01-24 11:06
Apple begins installment plan for Chinese site 2013-01-17 14:56
HTC shrugs off Apple battle 2013-01-14 09:23
Apple CEO makes 2nd visit to China in 10 months 2013-01-09 14:15
Apple verdict fails to satisfy union 2012-12-28 09:30
Apple's iPhone 5 China sales top 2m 2012-12-18 11:07
Today's Top News
Police continue manhunt for 2nd bombing suspect
H7N9 flu transmission studied
8% growth predicted for Q2
Nuke reactor gets foreign contract
First couple on Time's list of most influential
'Green' awareness levels drop in Beijing
Palace Museum spruces up
Trading channels 'need to broaden'
Hot Topics
Lunar probe , China growth forecasts, Emission rules get tougher, China seen through 'colored lens', International board,
Editor's Picks
Liaoning: China's oceangoing giant |
Poultry industry under pressure |
'Spring' in the air for NGOs? |
Boy set to drive Chinese golf |
Latest technology gets people talking |
Firms crave cyber connection |