So my Sony Z died recently (on a plan through Telstra) and I decided that I would purchase a new Sony Z3 Compact from JBHiFi to replace it. This phone was an outright purchase on the basis that it wasn't locked to a carrier and had no branding because after dealing with all the delayed firmware/software releases through Telstra, I wanted something completely stock.
I picked up the phone, went home turned it on and saw the Telstra logo. I was 100% pure emotional. This defeats the core reasoning behind the purchase.
On calling the store, I was informed that they do not stock unlocked and unbranded Sony Z3 compact mobile phones and that the person who sold it to me should have informed me that it was a phone "manufactured for Telstra". This person also mention that they do not return outright phones. I explained that I bought this phone on the premise that it was unbranded and unlocked, "outright". The issue was apparently being escalated and they were going to check whether Telstra delays the firmware/software.
I know the process with the updates and it looks like I'm going to be stuck again. Their website does not indicate that it is Telstra Branded. It's been two days since I contacted them. I have since found out that it may only be the Sony Store that sells handsets that are stock. If I knew it was going to be a Telstra handset I would have just gone on another plan. BTW I don't have any issues with Telstra doing what they do, I just wanted to avoid the delays, bloat SW etc.
Would love to hear some feedback.
Return it. They have no right under consumer law to say they don't accept returns. See here if you need some info to back you up when you get into the inevitable argument with the store manager: http://www.consumerlaw.gov.au/content/Content.aspx?doc=consu…