Man buys two Temu refurbished iPhones and opens them up to see what's inside them
Published on Sep 22, 2025 at 6:33 PM (UTC+4)
by Callum Tokody
Last updated on Oct 10, 2025 at 6:59 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by
Emma Matthews
As far from the Genius Bar as it’s possible to be, Temu iPhones sold as refurbished iPhone 14 Pro models are more common than you might realise.
Refurbished iPhones are meant to offer savings compared with buying new.
The question is whether these devices meet the standard expected at their price.
To answer it, two Temu iPhones were bought, tested, and taken apart.
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First look at the iPhone 14 Pro
Temu has moved quickly from small accessories to more expensive products such as the iPhone 14 Pro.
In a video posted by Phone Repair Guru on YouTube, two units were purchased for the Temu review at $858 Canadian each, which is higher than similar refurbished iPhones from other sellers.
At that level, condition and performance matter.
The first iPhone 14 Pro showed small scratches near the charging port and mute switch.
The second looked almost unused, with a clean exterior. Both included a charger and cable, though it was unclear whether they were genuine Apple accessories.
Apple’s diagnostic tool showed battery health at 80 percent for one device and 83 percent for the other.
Both passed tests for Apple Pay, screen response, and connectivity.
The Temu iPhones worked as expected in initial checks, but the teardown offered a clearer picture of their condition.
Inside the Temu iPhones
Opening the first iPhone 14 Pro showed original Apple parts, a clear water-damage indicator, and an intact waterproof seal.
There was no sign of repairs or replacements.
The second Temu iPhone produced the same findings. Its components were untouched and authentic.
Both refurbished iPhones were genuine and functional.
Technically, they performed at the level expected from well-kept iPhone 14 Pro models.
The higher cost remained an issue, since other refurbished iPhones are sold for less through established sellers.
Temu does not sell the phones directly.
They are offered by third-party sellers on the platform, which raises concerns about consistency.
The two iPhone 14 Pro units tested here were in good condition, but that may not be the case for every buyer.
The Temu review shows that both refurbished iPhones purchased were authentic, with original parts and no hidden problems.
The price, however, was higher than the wider market, and the reliance on third-party sellers adds risk for buyers.
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Callum has vast and varied experience, presenting a radio show and founding his own magazine to name just a couple of his accolades. In addition to his role as PR & Partnerships Coordinator, liaising with the most prestigious car brands in the world, Callum also heads up the website’s daily news. When he's not at his desk he can be found testing out the ASMR and driving UX of the latest supercar and EV launches.
