The white iPhone 4 still hasn’t been released by Apple, but we have already seen someone who made $130,000 selling kits to turn your iPhone 4 into a white model, who apparently got the parts from Apple’s supplier Foxconn.
Now it seems there are more white iPhones making their way out of the back door of Foxconn, as GizChina is reporting that genuine white iPhone 4s are being sold on the grey market in China.
The white iPhone 4s are only meant to be used for internal purposes and not to be sold, but it seems they are turning up for sale in China with prices starting at $828 and going up to $1204.
Background on the White iPhone 4
The white iPhone 4 has been a topic of much speculation and anticipation since Apple first announced it. Initially, the white model was supposed to be released alongside the black version, but various production issues delayed its launch. Apple cited challenges in manufacturing the white color to meet their standards, which led to multiple postponements. This delay created a significant demand for the white model, making it a coveted item among tech enthusiasts and Apple fans.
Impact on the Grey Market
The emergence of white iPhone 4s on the grey market in China highlights the complexities of global supply chains and the challenges companies face in controlling their products. The grey market refers to the trade of goods through distribution channels that are legal but unofficial, unauthorized, or unintended by the original manufacturer. In this case, it appears that employees or intermediaries at Foxconn, Apple’s manufacturing partner, have been diverting these white iPhones for personal profit.
The grey market can have several implications. For consumers, it offers an opportunity to obtain products that are otherwise unavailable or hard to find. However, these products often come without warranties or support from the manufacturer, posing a risk to buyers. For companies like Apple, the grey market can undermine official sales channels, affect brand reputation, and lead to potential legal issues.
Have a look at our article on the difference between the iPhone 4 and iPhone 4S, and also make sure you check out our iPhone 4S review.
Crunch Gear via TUAW
The situation with the white iPhone 4 also raises questions about the security and oversight within Apple’s supply chain. Foxconn, a major player in electronics manufacturing, has faced scrutiny in the past for labor practices and other issues. The leakage of white iPhone 4 units suggests that there may be gaps in the control mechanisms intended to prevent such occurrences.
The saga of the white iPhone 4 serves as a fascinating case study in product demand, supply chain management, and the grey market. While Apple continues to work on officially releasing the white model, the grey market in China is thriving, offering eager consumers a chance to get their hands on this elusive device. As the story unfolds, it will be interesting to see how Apple addresses these challenges and what measures they implement to safeguard their products in the future.
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