Prototype iPhone 3GS on eBay? (No, No Matte Case)

[MacRumors]

http://www.macrumors.com/images/macrumorsthreadlogo.gif (http://www.macrumors.com/2009/07/03/prototype-iphone-3gs-on-ebay-no-no-matte-case/)


http://images.macrumors.com/article/2009/07/03/145624-picture008_500.jpg

Cult of Mac reports (http://cultofmac.com/sketchy-looking-iphone-3gs-prototype-on-ebay/12548) on a "sketch-looking" non functional white iPhone that is being sold on eBay (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=320389513212) as a prototype iPhone 3GS.The seller says there’s a problem with restoring the software: “This device is not eligible for the requested build,” iTunes says when he tries to restore it.

The seller, vofffka, of Ocean City, New Jersey, says an Apple genius at his local retail store verified the iPhone as an Apple product, but can’t service it, “because it’s never been sold.”For those curious, the additional photos of the device's casing show that it does not have the rumored matte case that was thought to be destined for the iPhone 3GS. We can't be sure the auction is real, but prototype Apple devices have been known to find their way onto eBay. A prototype of the original iPhone was also sold (http://www.macrumors.com/2009/03/09/prototype-iphone-spotted-on-ebay/) on eBay.

Article Link: Prototype iPhone 3GS on eBay? (No, No Matte Case) (http://www.macrumors.com/2009/07/03/prototype-iphone-3gs-on-ebay-no-no-matte-case/)

[kirky29]

Pretty cool. I'd not buy it though :)

[xIGmanIx]

another compelling iphone article on the front page

[opnr2000]

Would have been a great find 6 months ago...

[Capt Underpants]

You people are missing the point.

This iPhone has a cable built into the screen.

It's definitely some kind of prototype...

[actorkid]

ummmm i dont think its a 3GS..i think its just a 3G....the lettering on the back isnt mirrored, its just gray, and unless you open it up or find a way to turn it on you wont be able to tell the difference

[TheSlush]

You people are missing the point.

This iPhone has a cable built into the screen.

It's definitely some kind of prototype...

Totally. Obviously not a prototype of the iPhone 3GS, but rather of the rumored iPhone E10633 with front-facing USB cable! The "E" stands for "Edgy"!

[alexmadison]

ummmm i dont think its a 3GS..i think its just a 3G....the lettering on the back isnt mirrored, its just gray, and unless you open it up or find a way to turn it on you wont be able to tell the difference

I'm sure it will sell, only on ebay can you get away with this.

[Dagless]

Can someone put up a comparison photo, I don't own an iPhone so I'm curious to see the difference.

[MacbookAlum1536]

If you look at the picture in the ebay auction it has the same iPhone id and FCC # as the 3g so im saying itsjust a 3g that won't restore

[Morod]

Maybe the seller will get a ton of money for it and be able to buy himself a decent digital camera for future pictures of his stuff for sale.
I'm not bidding....

[WestonHarvey1]

Is that iPhone laying on top of a piece of bloody gauze? Gross!

[Scottsdale]

If it were cracked open, and was a 3GS, could the software be loaded to the RAM and Swapped from another real 3GS? Just wondering if there is a way to get it working???

I do believe that if it is a 3GS prototype, Apple will know exactly who is selling it as it has a stamp right on the glass???

[MrCrowbar]

It looks like a regular iPhone, except for the stamp on the glass. eBay is a good place for selling non-functional dummies. There's always someone who didn't read the description and bids a high price for it. And then, there are the collectors who would kill to own a prototype. I wish the seller luck.

[mudenza]

Wow, we haven't had this scenario since the Macbook Air a few months back :)

Apparently, it was "found in an airport"

[toxictrix]

Lol I wouldn't be surprised if it was just a bricked 3g. But he says it was found in an airport. Weird. Anyway it's pretty cool.

[franzmueller]

It was indeed a working phone , the owner lost it and could not find it so it has been erased thru mobile me .

I think , unless the owner restore it on his computer that iphone will remain a brick .

Makes sense ?

Saludos

Franz

[richmonddjs]

wonder if it could be jailbroken?

[2E23G]

Gauze ?, I thought they were Burn Marks, isnt the 3gs supposed to be running Hot!!!!

[xIGmanIx]

Gauze ?, I thought they were Burn Marks, isnt the 3gs supposed to be running Hot!!!!

i just think its fabric and the rest of it is washed out

[michael.lauden]

nice closing tag after the update MacRumors... probably why you should be using HTML 4.01

[Revival Cr8tive]

It says on the ebay listing now that the seller...

bought off Ebay a month ago, from a guy who "found it at an airport".....

That old chess nut...

:D

[joro]

I wonder how long this one will last before Apple has eBay pull the listing?

[fixyourthinking]

First of all ...
I'm a little bit peeved that Engadget and now Macrumors are linking to Cult of Mac's entry on this - I posted this on MY site within 20 minutes of being listed LAST Friday.

I don't want to take credit if I'm not due it - but this is creditted to me at Cult of Mac.

Second...

I ran this serial number (I'm able to do that)

This phone was reported stolen in April.

The Apple store employee would have had to confiscate the phone - you are not allowed to bring prototypes into a store for repair.

At the very least, the manager would have to be notified ... and he/she would have recommended the phone be kept "for a day" - he/she would have called Apple - they would have recalled it and the owner/evaluator would be severely reprimanded.

[Morod]

I wonder how long this one will last before Apple has eBay pull the listing?

Or some fool bidder with more dollars than sense offers the seller an enormous amount of money to end the auction early.....

[T-Will]

In case anyone is interested, I have a WORKING 3GS prototype iPhone. I found it in mid-2008. This was the version of the 3GS that Apple was working on back in June 2007, and is a rarity. It works perfectly, not sure if the "3G" or "S" is enabled in this version, but it is usable, I can guarantee that. This 3GS prototype goes to the highest bidder! I will ship it worldwide.

;)

[2E23G]

i just think its fabric and the rest of it is washed out or maybe the shroud of iphone 2g!!....

[katfish711]

Surprised nobody has considered the obvious.

This was somebody's corporate issue phone. The ID is simply an etching, commonly used to ID valuable company assets that must be tracked to the satisfaction of shareholders.

Another poster commented that the unit was reported stolen. (or lost, whatever, same thing)

Seems obvious that the phone would then be disabled.

Sadly, nobody on the law enforcement, Apple, or AT&T side seems to care about the theft enough to take any action... yet?

[fixyourthinking]

Another poster commented that the unit was reported stolen. (or lost, whatever, same thing)

Seems obvious that the phone would then be disabled.

There's quite a difference between losing my keys and someone stealing my keys.

The phone was disabled by AT&T ...

The seller sells unlocked iPhones for a living.

The description is a complete fabrication ... It is an iPhone 3G from April that was reported STOLEN in April.

It is not a prototype ... It is one of the reasons this wasn't taken down immediately by Apple. It was listed last Friday around 8am est.

It's obvious the seller is a very experienced iPhone unlocker. All he would gave to do is put it in "root mode/utility mode" and check it and/or disassemble it and look at the chips to tell if it were 3G or 3Gs

[katfish711]

There's quite a difference between losing my keys and someone stealing my keys.

...

Of course there is a difference between the act of losing versus the act of stealing.

I only meant that, in the eyes of AT&T, _the action they take to resolve the matter_ starts the same way... They disable the phone.

[crisss1205]

Here is the FCC file for that number. (BCGA1241)

100% 3G not 3GS

https://fjallfoss.fcc.gov/oetcf/eas/reports/ViewExhibitReport.cfm?mode=Exhibits&RequestTimeout=500&calledFromFrame=N&application_id=227268&fcc_id='BCGA1241'

[EarthDawn]

I love his Q&A at the bottom of the listing....

Q: Hi there, i'm an italian bidder, before buy i have to ask you couple of things: - where did you get this?? - is it working/does it have any problem? Thank you very much Jul-01-09
A: Hi! It is currently NOT WORKING, I got it on ebay a month ago and the guy I got it from told me he found it in the airport. Thanks!


LOL.. classic

[rw3]

In case anyone is interested, I have a WORKING 3GS prototype iPhone. I found it in mid-2008. This was the version of the 3GS that Apple was working on back in June 2007, and is a rarity. It works perfectly, not sure if the "3G" or "S" is enabled in this version, but it is usable, I can guarantee that. This 3GS prototype goes to the highest bidder! I will ship it worldwide.

;)

If you really have this, I'm game to buy it.

[DELLsFan]

Yes, yes ... it sure looks like a prototype to me. :rolleyes:

/pass

Wake me up when you find some non-photo-shopped, front facing iSight camera shots.

[Hugh]

I'm sure it will sell, only on ebay can you get away with this.

Two years ago I sold a prototype Mac IIx. The ROMS what the tip off that it was a prototype. They had a sticker on them of the names of the three stooges, on a daughter board. I got around $500US for it, if I still have the pics from it I will post them.

Hugh

[ddTaylor]

You people are missing the point.

This iPhone has a cable built into the screen.

It's definitely some kind of prototype...

There are those on this forum that will not get your sense of humor. It was a great post, though.

D

[lazydesi]

aantalip: 1
Serial number: 8884409K3NQ
Name: Apple iPhone 3GS
Model: iPhone 3GS
Family name: A1303
Colour: Please tell us what colour this iPhone is.
Capacity: 16GB
Memory - number of slots: Please tell us how many memory (RAM) slots this machine has.
Factory: 88 (Shenzhen, China)
URL: Technical specifications by apple-history.com code_to_number: 09K - 4H5440GDRJ7

Model introduced: 2009
Production year: 2008
Production week: 44 (November)
Production number: 325 (within this week)
Uitbreidingen: Uitbreidingsmogelijkheden van dit apparaat

[elektrosha]

I am the guy who posted this phone on ebay. I bought it on May 4 from ebay.

Here is the link:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=150343471275&viewitem=&sspagename=ADME:X:RTQ:US:1123&salenotsupported

Never did anything to it, cause I knew from beginning that something is up with this phone and I can sell it for more

Called Apple 5 times, been emailing with the product specialist about this phone for a month, been at the Apple Store 5 times showing this phone to everyone there - was never told it's stolen, so they guy who is telling that has wrong info. None from Apple can trace this phone, so how come someone from outside Apple can post the info that it was stolen. Big time BS

[crisss1205]

I am the guy who posted this phone on ebay. I bought it on May 4 from ebay.

Here is the link:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=150343471275&viewitem=&sspagename=ADME:X:RTQ:US:1123&salenotsupported

Never did anything to it, cause I knew from beginning that something is up with this phone and I can sell it for more

Called Apple 5 times, been emailing with the product specialist about this phone for a month, been at the Apple Store 5 times showing this phone to everyone there - was never told it's stolen, so they guy who is telling that has wrong info. None from Apple can trace this phone, so how come someone from outside Apple can post the info that it was stolen. Big time BS

It's a Bricked iPhone 3G not an iPhone 3GS and you can tell that from the FCC ID on the back.

[elektrosha]

I just took it apart - check out more pics on ebay, it is iPhone 3GS, 100%

[smileyborg]

I just took it apart - check out more pics on ebay, it is iPhone 3GS, 100%

Can someone else confirm that his disassembly photos match those of the 3G S? (I'm too lazy.) That would indeed determine whether this "is" a 3G or 3G S, as the FCC ID on the back doesn't mean much considering the unit is a prototype...Apple wouldn't necessarily be using the new 3G S ID at early stages like this.

(BTW, why isn't this a Page 2 news item?)

[xIGmanIx]

another compelling iphone article on the front page


(BTW, why isn't this a Page 2 news item?)

Didn't you know? This is iPhonerumors, Macrumors is page 2 :D

[8CoreWhore]

BTW, I alerted Apple security. They responded that they were already investigating.

[crisss1205]

Can someone else confirm that his disassembly photos match those of the 3G S? (I'm too lazy.) That would indeed determine whether this "is" a 3G or 3G S, as the FCC ID on the back doesn't mean much considering the unit is a prototype...Apple wouldn't necessarily be using the new 3G S ID at early stages like this.

(BTW, why isn't this a Page 2 news item?)
Didn't the leaked Matte casing use the FFC ID that was not in the FCC system until launch day of the 3GS and the matte case FFC ID matches the current 3GS?
Here is the MacRumors post

http://www.macrumors.com/2009/06/09/leaked-matte-case-was-a-real-iphone-3g-s-case/

[rw3]

BTW, I alerted Apple security. They responded that they were already investigating.

Classic.....

[twoodcc]

cool i guess. i sure wouldn't buy it

[BaronvdB]

BTW, I alerted Apple security. They responded that they were already investigating.

Why?...nobody likes a tattletale

[rmhop81]

Why?...nobody likes a tattletale

maybe bc the seller bought it from ebay as a broken phone and now he's trying to sell it as a 3G S prototype to get his money back bc he couldn't fix it.

[smileyborg]

Didn't the leaked Matte casing use the FFC ID that was not in the FCC system until launch day of the 3GS and the matte case FFC ID matches the current 3GS?
Here is the MacRumors post

http://www.macrumors.com/2009/06/09/leaked-matte-case-was-a-real-iphone-3g-s-case/

Yeah. But that doesn't mean that this (possible) prototype (which may have been an earlier one than the Matte prototype) would have had the correct 3G S FCC ID...if it was an early prototype, it may simply have been using the old 3G back just with the internal hardware switched out (don't forget, since the 3G and 3G S have identical cases, this could be a possibility...). In any case, the internals the seller exposed should definitively prove whether this phone is a 3G or 3G S.

[LillieDesigns]

Woo south Jersey reference!

[smileyborg]

maybe bc the seller bought it from ebay as a broken phone and now he's trying to sell it as a 3G S prototype to get his money back bc he couldn't fix it.

The etching on the front glass (if that indeed is etching on the front glass and not on a screen protector or something) seems to suggest that this isn't just any old iPhone.

[macbook123]

Just wondering...

[smileyborg]

Just wondering...

...and yet another vote for Page 2...is anybody listening?

[DeanCorp]

aantalip: 1
Serial number: 8884409K3NQ
Name: Apple iPhone 3GS
Model: iPhone 3GS
Family name: A1303
Colour: Please tell us what colour this iPhone is.
Capacity: 16GB
Memory - number of slots: Please tell us how many memory (RAM) slots this machine has.
Factory: 88 (Shenzhen, China)
URL: Technical specifications by apple-history.com code_to_number: 09K - 4H5440GDRJ7

Model introduced: 2009
Production year: 2008
Production week: 44 (November)
Production number: 325 (within this week)
Uitbreidingen: Uitbreidingsmogelijkheden van dit apparaat

I just took it apart - check out more pics on ebay, it is iPhone 3GS, 100%

Yep. This is 100% an iPhone 3GS.

See screenshot .The unit is NOT marked as stolen, however it is "out of warranty" Not sure whether prototypes have no warranty or expire on release date?

When the Serial Number is entered, the description appears as a White 16GB 3GS :)

http://img43.imageshack.us/img43/2686/picture9wvq.png

[rw3]

Yep. This is 100% an iPhone 3GS.

See screenshot .The unit is NOT marked as stolen, however it is "out of warranty" Not sure whether prototypes have no warranty or expire on release date?

When the Serial Number is entered, the description appears as a White 16GB 3GS :)

http://img43.imageshack.us/img43/2686/picture9wvq.png

What site is that Dean?

[DeanCorp]

What site is that Dean?

Nothing that you have access to :)

But it is definitely a 3GS. What was the serial number of that Prototype MacBook Air? I'll see what it says for that product :P

[Andrew Henry]

What site is that Dean?

If you don't know... then you don't need to know. :D

Interesting though, that one guy says it was stolen in April and it's nothing, and bla bla.

And DeanCorp says it's NOT stolen, and OUT OF WARRANTY (Impossible unless it was a prototype, seeing as 3GS were just released)

So what is going on?

Then we have the kid "I alerted Apple Security bla bla" as if they don't already know. Good job Einstein.

[MorphingDragon]

What site is that Dean?

Don't ask, don't tell. :apple:

[iCantwait]

i had a prototype from dec 2006, ran the s/n on apple, all was good :P , my guy found it in as bar

[rw3]

I've seen that site before while I was at the Genius Bar....just didn't know where I could get to it.

[DeanCorp]

If you don't know... then you don't need to know. :D

Interesting though, that one guy says it was stolen in April and it's nothing, and bla bla.

And DeanCorp says it's NOT stolen, and OUT OF WARRANTY (Impossible unless it was a prototype, seeing as 3GS were just released)

So what is going on?

Then we have the kid "I alerted Apple Security bla bla" as if they don't already know. Good job Einstein.

I would say I'd believe me over the others. as they always say "pics or it didn't happen." I have proof. I don't need to make **** up to sound cool, because I already know I am :D

But definitely is a 3GS and a Prototype.

[seb-opp]

I just want to know where the seller got it. Where can you get things like this??

[Nicholas.C]

Very interesting.

[dvdhsu]

You people are missing the point.

This iPhone has a cable built into the screen.

It's definitely some kind of prototype...

Oh my God!
You're correct!
I just realized that!
Now, with Capt Underpants saying it, I suddenly get it now!

[chocolaterabbit]

I just want to know where the seller got it. Where can you get things like this??

Look through every rubbish bin in Cupertino ;)

[fixyourthinking]

It's not going to show anything stolen in a manufacturer's serial number database.

It was reported stolen in April 2009.

It is not a prototype ... but is a corporate evaluation unit.

In the At&t database it is listed as "over air deactivation by IMEI"

I'll say this again ...

Either the New Jersey Apple Store made a huge mistake in protocol, this guy is lying, a combination of the two, or this guy has or has had an insider at an Apple store feeding him iPhones under the table.

If the guy lives in New Jersey ... How is he getting so many Iphones that require a contract? This guy seems to have been making a living off of selling American iPhones (not imports) over the last year.

While his grammar and manners are less than perfect and his answers a bit shady - he seems intelligent.

(Eventhough he does reveal serial number, model #, and IMEI number)

it would seem to me, if he doesn't have an Apple store insider, and he did take this to an Apple store, they would have seized it.

This iPhone is NOT bricked - it has been deactivated permanently.

From what I can tell, if it truly is a 3Gs, it is nothing special, and has no different parts.

The IMEI number is with At&t and listed as stolen.

The seller is knowledgeable enough about unlocking and even seems to be about disassembly (you can manually reset an iPhone if bricked - most of the time).

[macfan406]

Wanna see if it's a working phone? Hook that bad boy up to a mac and run iRecovery on it (booted my iPhone 3G after I ********d it up. :p
hope that helps the owner. And also if the guy found it at an airport, why should he be severely punished? I would think the worst they would do is take the phone back. Although selling it was not a wise move. THAT I can understand Apple getting on him about.
:apple: ftw!
________________________________________________________________

13" MacBook Pro (Late 2008) 2.0 gHz
16GB white iPhone 3G with Incase protective case (rubberized)
8GB original iPhone (dead)
(hopefully soon) Black iPhone 3G{S} 32GB

[chaosconan]

I have a prototype iPhone 3GX. It's got 64GB of RAM.
Any bidders? :)

[Roller]

...and yet another vote for Page 2...is anybody listening?

Slow news day, I guess.

[JonJ]

Yep. This is 100% an iPhone 3GS.

See screenshot .The unit is NOT marked as stolen, however it is "out of warranty" Not sure whether prototypes have no warranty or expire on release date?

When the Serial Number is entered, the description appears as a White 16GB 3GS :)

http://img43.imageshack.us/img43/2686/picture9wvq.png

It will not be listed as stolen on that site, even if it was. Also, information from the site is considered confidential. You haven't even bothered to learn how to use it?

[fixyourthinking]

Wanna see if it's a working phone? Hook that bad boy up to a mac and run iRecovery on it (booted my iPhone 3G after I ********d it up. :p
hope that helps the owner. And also if the guy found it at an airport, why should he be severely punished? I would think the worst they would do is take the phone back. Although selling it was not a wise move. THAT I can understand Apple getting on him about.

The seller knows how to restore phones ... If you look at his feedback he's an experienced "jailbreaker" - he's also claiming to be a computer/cellphone tech.

He knows all the methods of unlocking/restoring a phone. He appears to know how to Google as well (which would tell a 1000 ways/tips to unbrick an iPhone)

But ... the phone is stolen ... It will not and cannot be activated on At&t (or any other GSM carrier)

A quick education on stealing ...

If you can reasonably obtain identification of property then you have no right to take it.

If the person that found this iPhone " in the airport" had looked on it and called the owner, any contact, etc etc he would be ok.

He most likely would gave gotten a reward.

This seller seems to have set up multiple IDs and is now claiming someone else sold it. Seems very clever to me.

[elektrosha]

The seller knows how to restore phones ... If you look at his feedback he's an experienced "jailbreaker" - he's also claiming to be a computer/cellphone tech.

He knows all the methods of unlocking/restoring a phone. He appears to know how to Google as well (which would tell a 1000 ways/tips to unbrick an iPhone)

But ... the phone is stolen ... It will not and cannot be activated on At&t (or any other GSM carrier)

A quick education on stealing ...

If you can reasonably obtain identification of property then you have no right to take it.

If the person that found this iPhone " in the airport" had looked on it and called the owner, any contact, etc etc he would be ok.

He most likely would gave gotten a reward.

This seller seems to have set up multiple IDs and is now claiming someone else sold it. Seems very clever to me.

Go work for FBI, Smart Guy.
I BOUGHT IT, and not from myself

[rmhop81]

The etching on the front glass (if that indeed is etching on the front glass and not on a screen protector or something) seems to suggest that this isn't just any old iPhone.

the supposed etching is probably a screen protector as if the guy really bought it on ebay from this http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=150343471275&ru=http%3A%2F%2Fshop.ebay.com%3A80%2F%3F_from%3DR40%26_trksid%3Dm38%26_nkw%3D150343471275%26_fvi%3D1&_rdc=1 auction it doesn't show the etching on the screen at all. He probably bought it to restore it and turn around and sell it as unlocked....BUT quickly realized that the original seller was right in saying it is BROKEN. The original seller CLEARLY states that the iphone doesn't work. Either way...the current seller is lying in his current auction.

I hate people on ebay that do this crap. Buy from a new ebayer and turn around and flip the item and totally lie in the auction and say it's new or barely used, when original auction said it doesn't work. He's been reported to ebay.

[elektrosha]

the supposed etching is probably a screen protector as if the guy really bought it on ebay from this http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=150343471275&ru=http%3A%2F%2Fshop.ebay.com%3A80%2F%3F_from%3DR40%26_trksid%3Dm38%26_nkw%3D150343471275%26_fvi%3D1&_rdc=1 auction it doesn't show the etching on the screen at all. He probably bought it to restore it and turn around and sell it as unlocked....BUT quickly realized that the original seller was right in saying it is BROKEN. The original seller CLEARLY states that the iphone doesn't work. Either way...the current seller is lying in his current auction.

I hate people on ebay that do this crap. Buy from a new ebayer and turn around and flip the item and totally lie in the auction and say it's new or barely used, when original auction said it doesn't work. He's been reported to ebay.

It might be working if someone has special skills, I did mention, that the only thing You see on the screen is the Connect to iTunes logo and I can't restore it, doesn't it mean it's not in working order???

I did not think that there are so many BS-ers on this forum, unbelievable...

[UngratefulNinja]

How come the Exxxx number etched on the front screen isn't in the pic in the original ebay auction? The one you say you bought it from :confused:

[elektrosha]

How come the Exxxx number etched on the front screen isn't in the pic in the original ebay auction? The one you say you bought it from :confused:

I have no clue... I was buying it as a broken iPhone 3G, maybe that guy did not even take a picture of the iPhone I got from him. He sent it to me in a White iPhone BOX, with no sticker with serial number on the back. So I assume he has another White iPhone. He might took pictures of His Original iPhone 3G and post it on his ebay page, or he found them online. I DON'T KNOW!!!

[smileyborg]

I have no clue... I was buying it as a broken iPhone 3G, maybe that guy did not even take a picture of the iPhone I got from him. He sent it to me in a White iPhone BOX, with no sticker with serial number on the back. So I assume he has another White iPhone. He might took pictures of His Original iPhone 3G and post it on his ebay page, or he found them online. I DON'T KNOW!!!

Question: can you confirm that the etching in your photos is on the front glass of the iPhone (and that was how you originally got it)?

[elektrosha]

Question: can you confirm that the etching in your photos is on the front glass of the iPhone (and that was how you originally got it)?

IT IS 100% ON THE GLASS, i WOULD SAY BEHIND THE GLASS, CAUSE I CAN'T FEEL IT WITH MY FINGER.

THERE IS NO SCREEN PROTECTOR ON THE GLASS!!!

[elektrosha]

You can't really see on pictures, but there are 4 some kind of lighter marks on all 4 sides of the Front Metal Bezel, kind of engraved in the bezel

[8CoreWhore]

Why?...nobody likes a tattletale

I'm not trying to be liked, some sucker will get raped buying this.

[rmhop81]

It might be working if someone has special skills, I did mention, that the only thing You see on the screen is the Connect to iTunes logo and I can't restore it, doesn't it mean it's not in working order???

I did not think that there are so many BS-ers on this forum, unbelievable...

the ORIGINAL auction that you supposedly bought it from said it's being sold for PARTS ONLY and the picture doesn't show the etching.

NOW in your current auction you don't mention it being sold for PARTS only and it not working....you state this....

"iPhone can not be restored, because software for this iPhone is not available yet". I tried to restore it on Friday and it took 3G S Firmware with the error after unpacking it "This device is not eligible for the requested build".

which is where you come in with making up that it's a PROTOTYPE and that's why it's not letting you update the phone bc it's a SPECIAL phone.

I'm not BSing at all....apparently you are and were dumb enough to post the link of the auction that you bought it from and so many dumb new ebayers are believing every BS word that is written in your auction.

[rmhop81]

I'm not trying to be liked, some sucker will get raped buying this.

exactly bc he is totally lying in his listing. he's trying to play off the IT DOESN'T WORK part as it's a prototype and that is why....so it can't be updated with software.

[elektrosha]

I am done replying to the nonsense comments. I have never lied in my eBay auctions and will never do. This is a 100% prototype iPhone 3gs confirmed by apple and some posters here. So go ahead folks, I am tired of this BS

[rmhop81]

I am done replying to the nonsense comments. I have never lied in my eBay auctions and will never do. This is a 100% prototype iPhone 3gs confirmed by apple and some posters here. So go ahead folks, I am tired of this BS

you were the one that registered here at our forum JUST so you could try to defend yourself.....MUST be a big reason why you are trying so hard to defend yourself. hopefully ebay will suspend your account.

[fixyourthinking]

To address the comments made by the seller:

AT&T says it was deactivated. End of story.

The "E" in that number stands for "evaluation"

I know someone that had a 1st gen iPhone - they had a similar marking on theirs. The iPhone had already been announced ... just not released.

The 3Gs was announced but not released ...

Old prototypes are an entirely different matter ... what you have is someone's accidentally misplaced property.

Receiving stolen goods is the same as stealing them by law.

I still can't believe the Apple Store scenario - without any questions. The whole thing could result in a lot of innocent people getting fired and or people getting hurt financially because of "not doing the right thing".

Exploring trying to contact Apple ...

I can MAYBE understand this ... The seller seems to have broken English ... If he started making demands for an exchange (which Apple can't do unless they have a valid IMEI number associated with a contract) then he was probably being dismissed as crazy or fanatic.

But ... Taking it to 2 different stores as expressed. One store, makes sense. Two stores is possible but like lottery odds ... It makes me mad either way that Apple store geniuses are this nonchalant and untrained or that this guy is making a mockery of Apple support staff by trying to make up a cockamamy trail to cover up a lengthy lie.

I don't wish the seller bad luck or ill will ... I just wish he take this on another avenue. (Sometimes there's a reward)

I'm sure this has now gotten Apples attention.

The 3Gs is released. This phone is nothing special. Had it been put on eBay the week before 3Gs release and not containing a deactivated IMEI everything might be ok. It also bothers me that the seller sells iPhones unlocked for a living ... This may or may not be the case ... but it seems like there's just something that's not adding up - beyond the "bought on eBay from someone that found it in an airport" aspect and the new observation of the phones being different in the auction pointed to by the seller.

[elektrosha]

you were the one that registered here at our forum JUST so you could try to defend yourself.....MUST be a big reason why you are trying so hard to defend yourself. hopefully ebay will suspend your account.

I registered here only to correct some unverified info some guys posting here, but now I see it was a mistake, cause bs like You trying to bite me. But anyway take care, I am out of this nonsense.

[ProCareGiver]

Using the same website DeanCorp used, I confirmed for myself that the unit is indeed an iPhone 3GS. The unit shows as OOW, as all prototype (non-final) units do. It lists all replacement parts (including accessories) as those for the iPhone 3GS. The unit was manufactured in the 44th week of 2008 and was probably running some 3GS variant of 2.1 software.

[greeney2k1]

looks like the etching is within the screen protector to me? fake?

[dryice0077]

Using the same website DeanCorp used, I confirmed for myself that the unit is indeed an iPhone 3GS. The unit shows as OOW, as all prototype (non-final) units do. It lists all replacement parts (including accessories) as those for the iPhone 3GS. The unit was manufactured in the 44th week of 2008 and was probably running some 3GS variant of 2.1 software.

What website is that? i want to know cause
I need to know something about my water damaged screwed up 3G

[fixyourthinking]

Using the same website DeanCorp used, I confirmed for myself that the unit is indeed an iPhone 3GS. The unit shows as OOW, as all prototype (non-final) units do.

Or deactivated by At&t thereby invalidating the warranty. Apple shares databases.

My iPhone 3Gs shows a Feb 09 manufacture - I'm sure Apple was ramping these up for some time ... more than 2 million units. I estimate that would take greater than 6 months to produce that many.

A select few developers and employees were (as always) given evaluation units. Prototype is not the same as evaluation. Evaluation units are final ... not even near final. The unit could have been a normal distribution model just like mine. My iPhone 3Gs looks identical to this one. Prototype units typically have a little more tape, flourescent wires, etc ...

[wardev]

hmmm, it appears that the numbers on the front of the iphone appear to be fake. they do not appear on the iphone in the original auction.

[wardev]

Go work for FBI, Smart Guy.
I BOUGHT IT, and not from myself

yea but, Buy It Now? I would have bid first, not jump in on buying an ordinary looking broken iphone!

[Brazzo79]

I don´t know why this should be a page 1 rumor ???

[phinsup]

He says it's not stolen, the guy he bought it from "found it at an airport" LOL

[RunOverProducti]

Ok I get it about the prototype 3G S, now can you guys post some new news please? this been here for a day now!

[AppleNewYork]

lol... FixYourthinking... could you leave him alone? Started a little FBI investigation on something unrelated to you.

[DaBrain]

I don´t know why this should be a page 1 rumor ???

Your NOT Alone!--))) :rolleyes:;)

[ddTaylor]

the ORIGINAL auction that you supposedly bought it from said it's being sold for PARTS ONLY and the picture doesn't show the etching.

NOW in your current auction you don't mention it being sold for PARTS only and it not working....you state this....

"iPhone can not be restored, because software for this iPhone is not available yet". I tried to restore it on Friday and it took 3G S Firmware with the error after unpacking it "This device is not eligible for the requested build".

which is where you come in with making up that it's a PROTOTYPE and that's why it's not letting you update the phone bc it's a SPECIAL phone.

I'm not BSing at all....apparently you are and were dumb enough to post the link of the auction that you bought it from and so many dumb new ebayers are believing every BS word that is written in your auction.

I think you are wrong ad making a comment on something you simply know nothing about. I am not defending the selling but his description based on all that has been said and seen here matches.

For what it is worth - I would be more concerned as to why the phone in the buyers auction does not show the etching - but the sells description appears to be totally correct including the serial and IMEI numbers that have been looked-up here and via ATT and Apple. Try not to be so negative when yo might not know the entire story. I think the seller is within his rights to describe it the way he has as he is not lying - maybe not being completely open but he is not lying from what I can tell.

D

[DeanCorp]

You can also clearly see this is a Prototype and NOT a 3G because the logic board is red: http://i624.photobucket.com/albums/tt321/elektrosha/iPhone3GS_Prototype/Picture021.jpg

The publicly released 3GS have blue logic boards, see picture: http://s1.guide-images.ifixit.com/igi/rCCm5AE66SuiUi2C.large

[fixyourthinking]

lol... FixYourthinking... could you leave him alone? Started a little FBI investigation on something unrelated to you.

If this were your phone you'd have a different tune.

This is admitted receipt and fencing of stolen goods.

[wardev]

Your NOT Alone!--))) :rolleyes:;)

garrrrr!!! i thought that was an actual bug! i almost broke my screen...:eek:

[brax.j]

I got the same result as Dean when I looked up the serial. Elektrosha you have a prototype but it is worthless because after release date they are all disabled but prototypes don't have anything etched on the glass. Fixyourthinking you need to fix your thinking the phone wasn't stolen and isn't being missed it was a test unit that was lost.

[RunOverProducti]

I guess MacRumors doesn't have anymore "Rumors", because this "OLD NEWS" is still on the front page, where's the Moderator to block this?

[xIGmanIx]

I guess MacRumors doesn't have anymore "Rumors", because this "OLD NEWS" is still on the front page, where's the Moderator to block this?

you mean iPhonerumors? :eek:

[RunOverProducti]

you mean iPhonerumors? :eek:

In General

[Brazzo79]

Your NOT Alone!--))) :rolleyes:;)

Good to know.;)

[iCantwait]

why the hell is this on the front page

and the listing has been removed by ebay

[fixyourthinking]

I got the same result as Dean when I looked up the serial. Elektrosha you have a prototype but it is worthless because after release date they are all disabled but prototypes don't have anything etched on the glass. Fixyourthinking you need to fix your thinking the phone wasn't stolen and isn't being missed it was a test unit that was lost.


Oh ok ... eBay removed it for no reason then. The IMEI number (not serial #) is showing"loss/stolen" and over air deactivation.

The unit is listed by the seller as found in an airport.

You're right ... I'm wrong ... I should start supporting fencing on eBay and like it when people break the law.

[zermac]

Oh ok ... eBay removed it for no reason then. The IMEI number (not serial #) is showing"loss/stolen" and over air deactivation.

The unit is listed by the seller as found in an airport.

lol what are you implying? that since eBay removed the listing it must have been a criminal at work for sure?

yet another know-it-all, self righteous guys from the internets, so proud because he has a blog to rehash news from other blogs/sites

are you too caught up in your "investigation" that you realize a couple (misplaced or not) complaints to eBay + a shady listing should be enough for them to say "meh...lets take it off to be safe"...its not like eBay somehow proved your point as you imply.

And multiple people already explained in this thread (indirectly to you) that the Apple database does not list it as stolen even if ATT does and someone even mentioned that prototypes are deactivated after the release date bla bla ... maybe then it got lost or even dumped maybe ATT protocol doesn't even have a special designation for "de-activated because of prototype status after release date" so they just enter lost/stolen (hey look at that even lost/stolen means it could even be lost, no necessarily stolen through a violent crime)

anyways enough of this thread and Mr. Sherlock Fix-your-thinking

I didn't see anything on the listing that would suggest any wrong doing (AFAIK buying "found" items over the internet is not yet universally illegal). and if the guy manages to feed himself by putting his technical expertise to good creative use interesting to him, unlocking those overpriced ATT contracts, more power to him. I could ridicule you for having a seemingly themeless and crappy blog, but whatever big deal. No need to bash on the guy selling the iPhone IMO, just respectfully pose questions dont lobby that he is a criminal just because you work for ATT and dont like him.

and no I dont know the guy or anything

[rw3]

elektrosha - Hit me on PM or email at ryan.w.gregg@gmail.com

[huntor]

my replacement glass screen had the same thing on the back of it.
just different numbers/letters.

all they did was just turn the glass around.
dont know how they got the digitizer off & on,
but this thing's far from a prototype.

[rw3]

my replacement glass screen had the same thing on the back of it.
just different numbers/letters.

all they did was just turn the glass around.
dont know how they got the digitizer off & on,
but this thing's far from a prototype.

It has a red PCB in it, it's a prototype.....

[ddTaylor]

my replacement glass screen had the same thing on the back of it.
just different numbers/letters.

all they did was just turn the glass around.
dont know how they got the digitizer off & on,
but this thing's far from a prototype.

No it is NOT! Is has the prototype RED circuit board that is used in ALL prototype designs by Apple! Please do research BEFORE you plant your foot in your mouth - it helps, unless you wear small shoes...

* EDIT * The red PCB was mentioned before so my apologies. This is NOT a general production run - is has the tale-tell signs of a evaluation/prototype unit.

D

[rtakman]

"This listing (320389513212) has been removed or is no longer available. Please make sure you entered the right item number.
If the listing was removed by eBay, consider it canceled. Note: Listings that have ended more than 90 days ago will no longer appear on eBay."

On the Ebay Page.

This Apples doing?

[iAlexG]

Matte case?

[DELLsFan]

"This listing (320389513212) has been removed or is no longer available. Please make sure you entered the right item number.
If the listing was removed by eBay, consider it canceled. Note: Listings that have ended more than 90 days ago will no longer appear on eBay."

On the Ebay Page.

This Apples doing?

I'd bet money on it. :p

[DeanCorp]

my replacement glass screen had the same thing on the back of it.
just different numbers/letters.

all they did was just turn the glass around.
dont know how they got the digitizer off & on,
but this thing's far from a prototype.

It has a red PCB in it, it's a prototype.....

No it is NOT! Is has the prototype RED circuit board that is used in ALL prototype designs by Apple! Please do research BEFORE you plant your foot in your mouth - it helps, unless you wear small shoes...

* EDIT * The red PCB was mentioned before so my apologies. This is NOT a general production run - is has the tale-tell signs of a evaluation/prototype unit.

D

Yes, that is correct. See my post on the previous page:
You can also clearly see this is a Prototype and NOT a 3G because the logic board is red: http://i624.photobucket.com/albums/tt321/elektrosha/iPhone3GS_Prototype/Picture021.jpg

The publicly released 3GS have blue logic boards, see picture: http://s1.guide-images.ifixit.com/igi/rCCm5AE66SuiUi2C.large

[kdarling]

I didn't see anything on the listing that would suggest any wrong doing (AFAIK buying "found" items over the internet is not yet universally illegal).

Selling a found item is not illegal... at least as long as the finder first tried to find the actual owner, by calling them or other means.

(I would argue that the right thing to do, would've been to at least leave a description of the item with the airport lost & found. Then the owner could've had a better chance. I've lost some expensive items in terminals before, and I sure would've liked that.)

If a person knows this was a prototype, then they should be intelligent enough to know that lost prototypes probably belong to Apple. Therefore the owner is known and this should never have hit eBay.

If the person does not know, and sells it, and the real owner finds out, the real owner is legally due the money.

[huntor]

Yes, that is correct. See my post on the previous page:
You can also clearly see this is a Prototype and NOT a 3G because the logic board is red:

clears alot of things up.

but that glass screen is on backwards. compare your pics to the front page pic. the back is shinier then the front. i just replaced my glass screen, im no expert. but i know bs when i see it.

what the dude probably did was buy a bunch of parts from a third party co. put them together himself and called it a prototype. but who knows.. or a better question.. who cares?

[dave006]

I have to vote with Deancorp on this unit.

The IMEI DB shows that this IMEI: 001072000270023 is Mobile Equipment: Type N/A Test phone

Here is the link to the web site: http://www.numberingplans.com/?page=analysis&sub=imeinr

Dave

[fixyourthinking]

I have to vote with Deancorp on this unit.

The IMEI DB shows that this IMEI: 001072000270023 is Mobile Equipment: Type N/A Test phone

Here is the link to the web site: http://www.numberingplans.com/?page=analysis&sub=imeinr

Dave

I don't doubt that this may be an evaluation unit (but not a prototype) - that database is NOT AT&T's database - there it indicates loss/stolen and over air deactivation.

I submitted my IMEI number for a lost phone from two years ago - it shows over air deactivation as well.

I can now verify also that replacement screens have lettering at the corner - ON THE BACK - but that the E in the photo of this unit stood for evaluation.

The original owner/evaluator should know of this by now - I wonder why they're still hiding.

[chocolaterabbit]

clears alot of things up.

but that glass screen is on backwards. compare your pics to the front page pic. the back is shinier then the front. i just replaced my glass screen, im no expert. but i know bs when i see it.

what the dude probably did was buy a bunch of parts from a third party co. put them together himself and called it a prototype. but who knows.. or a better question.. who cares?

sure, no one cares, but that still doesn't mean you can spread misinformation around just because you felt like it. this guy clearly has a prototype, and you shouldn't rain on his parade just because he has it.

[ddTaylor]

sure, no one cares, but that still doesn't mean you can spread misinformation around just because you felt like it. this guy clearly has a prototype, and you shouldn't rain on his parade just because he has it.

My hats off to you for that comment - you are completely correct. I think that some people are so jealous over the fortune of others that they will simply knock it, bash it or tell you that you are full of it in order to make themselves feel better.

Why do people feel the need to bash the fortune of others? If I had this phone and listed it on eBay I would be very unhappy over these comments and the fact that eBay pulled the auction. It was HIS PHONE - HE OFFERED IT BACK TO APPLE and then he listed it on the 'Bay. Because of many on this forum complaining to eBay over a phone that is NOT THEIRS - and is NO BUSINESS OF THEIRS had complained, eBay pulled the listing!

This phone was most likely worth $1k or MORE as it was more rare and more of an Apple Icon than the prototype MBA listed earlier. It was funny to see the difference in comments over THAT post and this post. My guess is that people were angry over the fact that this man has a business selling unlock Apple phones and bought this knowing it was DOA to try and repair to re-sell overseas. I have sold several Apple phones to college students who were heading over seas and back to their countries such as Israel, China, Pakistan and Afganistan - all were sold at HUGE profits over eBay and other sites as they wanted the phones and viewed/tested them in person. I even went to the ATT store, bought MORE phones, canceled the line and service and STILL made money selling them to Chinese students buying them for friends and family in their home country. Is that wrong? I do not think so as I DI NOT BREAK THE LAW and NO ONE can verify the owner of the iPhone broke the law either!

This is a BS post and shows how people dislike those who make aliving by buying and selling things like the iPhone, iPod or MB for profit. It is amazing they like Apple as a company when they mark-up their products more than ANY OTHER ELECTRONICS COMPANY IN THE WORLD - and they make an enormous profit - at the expense of the CUSTOMER. Why did this fellow do anything different? He offered the phone to Apple, they did not respond. He tried to sell it and a bunch of ninnies here complained to the point where eBay pulled the auction. Embarrassing and just plain wrong.

D

[elektrosha]

My hats off to you for that comment - you are completely correct. I think that some people are so jealous over the fortune of others that they will simply knock it, bash it or tell you that you are full of it in order to make themselves feel better.

Why do people feel the need to bash the fortune of others? If I had this phone and listed it on eBay I would be very unhappy over these comments and the fact that eBay pulled the auction. It was HIS PHONE - HE OFFERED IT BACK TO APPLE and then he listed it on the 'Bay. Because of many on this forum complaining to eBay over a phone that is NOT THEIRS - and is NO BUSINESS OF THEIRS had complained, eBay pulled the listing!

This phone was most likely worth $1k or MORE as it was more rare and more of an Apple Icon than the prototype MBA listed earlier. It was funny to see the difference in comments over THAT post and this post. My guess is that people were angry over the fact that this man has a business selling unlock Apple phones and bought this knowing it was DOA to try and repair to re-sell overseas. I have sold several Apple phones to college students who were heading over seas and back to their countries such as Israel, China, Pakistan and Afganistan - all were sold at HUGE profits over eBay and other sites as they wanted the phones and viewed/tested them in person. I even went to the ATT store, bought MORE phones, canceled the line and service and STILL made money selling them to Chinese students buying them for friends and family in their home country. Is that wrong? I do not think so as I DI NOT BREAK THE LAW and NO ONE can verify the owner of the iPhone broke the law either!

This is a BS post and shows how people dislike those who make aliving by buying and selling things like the iPhone, iPod or MB for profit. It is amazing they like Apple as a company when they mark-up their products more than ANY OTHER ELECTRONICS COMPANY IN THE WORLD - and they make an enormous profit - at the expense of the CUSTOMER. Why did this fellow do anything different? He offered the phone to Apple, they did not respond. He tried to sell it and a bunch of ninnies here complained to the point where eBay pulled the auction. Embarrassing and just plain wrong.

D

Plain True. It's nice to see someone here who does think.

One guy from Apple Global Security Contacted me yesterday about this phone. They want it back and they offered me an iPod Nano in exchange :). I am not really up for that kind or trade. Will wait for the second offer :)