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Is buying "brand new" software with no box/manual legit?

S

switcher3365

macrumors regular
Original poster
Mar 5, 2008
166
18
I am looking to find the best deal on iWork '08.

On Amazon and Ebay ("Buy Now" option), the software is listed for as low as $44 (while it retails for $68 on Amazon itself), but it is from an individual seller on Amazon. The sellers have high ratings and good reviews, but the software doesn't come with a manual or box. It will just come with a shrink-wrapped CD. I don't really read manuals and such, but how could selling software that cheap make the seller a profit if it is legit?

BTW, this is not OEM software and not an upgrade version.
 
if the software needs a serial and the serial is either written on the CD or on the reciept its fine. the documentation is probably on the CD or online. you probably wont read it anyway… am i right? hehe
 
It depends on if it's been installed and is still installed, or if it is not currently installed on a computer right now.

If I sold my Leopard DVD, even though it comes in a box, it would be illegal because I used it to install Leopard on my MBP, and am still running leopard.

If I put Tiger back on my MBP and sold you the leopard DVD without the case, that would be legal because I'm not using the Leopard license anymore.

See?
 
richthomas said:
if the software needs a serial and the serial is either written on the CD or on the reciept its fine. the documentation is probably on the CD or online. you probably wont read it anyway… am i right? hehe
Click to expand...

Apparently, the serial numbers are included on the CD case. I'd love to save the money (because I'm already saving $60 by not getting MS Office 08), but a part of me thinks this $44 deal is too good to be true.

I don't need the manuals. I never read them anyway. I search online for the things I need help with. I downloaded the Apple trial and just need a serial number anyway. I won't even need to actually install the software once I get it.
 
I would ask the seller how they obtained these copies and why the company released the software like this. You could even contact the company, I assume you are buying an MS Office alternative, so the company might even be willing to match the price so they can have a legit sale and make some money.
 
I'm not sure about Iworks, but I know it is possible. I have a chance as a student to get a great price on the Adobe Master collection. However, it only includes the MEDIA(CD) & Activation/Serial Number.

I would buy it with paypal(use AMEX as the CC, they're great with disputes). If anything is amiss when you buy it then you can dispute it, if not then you got a great deal :D
 
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