Cheapest it has ever been. Suitable as a first phone, spare phone, phone for someone with basic needs, VoLTE compatible replacement phone, etc.
12 month warranty with 30 day satisfaction guarantee. If the battery life is a concern, use a cheap 10000mAh powerbank to charge it 3+ times to 100%.
Apple A13 chip.
Updated to iOS 18.2.
VOLTE-capable and compatible with 4G 700MHz (B28)
If you dont know, why comment?
Probably 2 more years, based on the XS getting 18.
Based on the 3GB RAM on iPhone SE 2g, I'm not confident that it will survive iOS 20. There's a chance that even iOS 19 would be a far reach.
Though should comfortably run for 2-4 years with major apps supported. Though by that time the battery (especially on a refurb) would be gone first.
On average the iPhones get updates for about 7 years so I imagine it'll get at least security updates through to 2027
It should get iOS 19 next year but that will probably be its last. Most iPhone generation get 5 cycles.
It will run the latest iOS 18.2 right now.
I think people know what they are getting if they are buying a refurbished iPhone for $169 when the sale starts later tonight. 4G and 80% battery is plenty for kids runaround phone or a spare phone to take advantage of iOS discounts if in Android ecosystem.
I beg to differ
yes its cheap @ $169 but its not being promoted for kids
And if they want to use it on WiFi they will be very disappointed
Most people will not be aware of the drawbacks of this model
Bottom line: Alegre is dumping these whilst they can
They are obviously stuck with quite a few of them
@HeWhoKnows: It's not promoted towards adults either, it's just a product and a price with minimal "promo" from what I can see.
As someone who has kids using iPhone 8 on wifi with no issues, I don't think upgrading to wifi 6 will be a problem. Willing to take the risk at this price tho as most wifi problems do not stem from the connecting device.
Agree with your bottom line, most likely because a new SE model is coming out soon and these will be "worthless".
The iphone SE 2022 came out two years after the SE 2020, it wasn't rushed out. The next SE is expected to be announced in march with a bigger screen and faceID, which will be 3 years after the 2022 model. I interpret the gap between the original SE and the SE 2020 as apple being unsure if they'd continue the product line.
We're still running a few dozen SE 2020's at work, aside from the limited battery life that comes with all SE's they're capable. I'm not getting them repaired when they break but definitely worth $169 with a 12 month warranty.
Batteries are the only straightforward repair for these phones if you're comfortable with opening them up. A replacement battery costs $20 on ebay and comes with the required tools, but the waterproofing may be less good once you're done.
And your link points to a price of $260
And there's a big blue box which says TOMORROW at the top of the post.
Granted
Plenty of people commenting here that have NO IDEA!
They are talking through their (cant say it here)
I dont think anyone is qualified to comment unless they have owned this specific SE2 model and the SE3
I bought one of these SE2 models and endured the issues outlined.
There are blogs everywhere including on Apple blogs with many other SE2 owners complaining about the same issues
The main one is POOR WIFI RECEPTION
Battery life comes second but similar to iphone 8 so no surprise here.
I sold mine and bought another in the hope the problems where limited to the first one i purchased.
But No! Same problems all over again
As I said, owners of the SE2 are complaining everywhere about POOR WIFI reception
Bottom line is that the SE2 (2020) is a flawed iPhone design and should be avoided at any price
Apple released the SE3 shortly afterwards as it resolved the issues and shortcomings which the SE2 had
Not because anyone here thinks they know better or that Apple simply wanted to release another SE model
Really? So similar? why would Apple do that except to fix the inherent problems of the SE2.
In fact Apple was heavily criticised for not coming up with a better, more updated design, perhaps based on the iphone 12 Mini
Hmmm Logic wins out every time
PS I have owned 3 x SE2 models and 2 x SE3 models so I think that qualifies me as an expert in these 2 iPhone models
,
And before that a few iphone SE1, 7, 7 plus,8, 8 plus and XR. All of which had much better reception that the terrible iPhone SE2.
"The iPhone SE (2nd generation), released in April 2020, is currently supported by Apple's latest operating system, iOS 18, as of December 2024.
WIKIPEDIA
Apple typically provides software updates for iPhones for about five to six years from their release date. Given that the iPhone SE (2nd generation) is now four years old, it is likely to receive software support for another one to two years. However, Apple has not officially announced an end date for software support for this model.
It's important to note that while the device may continue to receive updates, the frequency and significance of these updates may decrease as the device ages. Additionally, certain new features introduced in future iOS versions may not be available on older hardware due to technical limitations. "
Really nice deal this phone is the best budget phone imo features for price is great value
I'm sorry but I have to strongly disagree. I have one of these and a Pixel 5 from 2020. Even though the Pixel is stuck on Android 14 and is no longer receiving updates, it is still a far nicer device to use than the iPhone. The Pixel absolutely smashes this in every single way, screen size and quality, battery life, speed and smoothness, 5G compatibility, camera quality and features, the list goes on and on. In fact, it is amazing to think these 2 phones were released in the same year. The Pixel still feels like a modern device, the iPhone does not.
No more updates means your cybersecurity is in bad shape on that phone I would have thought.
Yes and no. As long as you don't go to dodgy sites, download dodgy apps, use public wifi or trust the singles in your area, you're fine. A user that prevents unwanted access is always a good security measure.
I agree 100% but not because the Pixel 5 is better.
That comes down to personal taste and preferences.
All you need to know is that Apple rushed out with the iPhone SE3 (2022) not long after the SE2 (2020) because the SE2 had so many issues that could not be fixed via iOS updates (how so many SE2 owners hoped)
The SE2 a REALLY BAD iPHONE!
Apple should have given all iPhone SE2 owners a replacement SE3…seriously its that bad!
See my post above for details
Seems like a pretty good deal for the cost…. seeing as it's still getting ios updates, with the same cpu as the ipad 9th gen.
And iPhone 11/Pro/Max
Seems like a pretty good deal for the cost…
Except the battery life .
Its a really BAD DEAL!
See my post above that explains why
2020 calls 😄
Not bad, no 5G though
No 5G reception will make this iPhone quickly outdated
Many overseas countries have already FULLY moved into 5G.
Add the fact that its WiFi reception is absolutely TERRIBLE!
Which ones are 5G only?
4G will outlast this phone.
iPhone 12 is the earliest with 5G coverage
@sumyungguy: Which country. I was responding the claim the some countries are "FULLY moved into 5G" whatever that means exactly.
Considering getting one as parents phone, to be able to manage kids' ipds. Is this online only or in-store also available?
Thats why I'm interested too, daughter unfortunately switched to an iPhone, much to my disgust and protest, have since lost the ability for parental controls, this should be a cheap solution
MDM solutions absolutely exist for iPhones, though they're usually marketed at business customers - might be worth looking into them anyway.
Jamf Now is free for three devices. I use that
Get this for the yt premium deal??
Oh what s this?
and fuel locking.
Ngl that's the first thought that popped into my head 🤣
you mean the Indian one? Need an India Apple id and purchase the gc every month?
How easy is it to transfer from 16 years of androiid to this? Better or worse?
Tiny screen would be the biggest hurdle.
It’s not that tiny lol
I was pleased when she said that
It is compared to modern phones. It’s a 4.7 inch screen. Apart from the SE, no iPhone has had a screen that small since the 8 released in 2017. Even sub-$150 new Android phones have 6.5 inch screens.
Nah, the screen is fine.
Its the battery thats the issue.
Depends on what you value. Check out Linus’s iPhone video where he switched from his Note 9 to an iPhone 16. The base of his gripes seem to come from muscle memory regarding his Android usage and how iOS interferes with that.
I can’t comment on the transfer process itself, since I used an Android phone for about 1 month a while back before both Apple and Google introduced their migration apps, and iOS the rest of the time.
I got one as a dedicated work handset. Screen size is a little painful… but not as bad as I expected. Other handset is a 15pro max.
Does anyone experienced the refurb quality of these Coles iPhones before?
iPhone 8 - cosmetically was in fantastic condition, but battery was abysmal and battery health 81% (from use it felt even less than that)
+1 pretty much, though my battery health was showing 100% all the time I had it. It seemed to be dying after about 18 months though and I traded it in on a Pixel for more than it was ever worth.
Bought one last October for travelling. Needed something with an esim.
The physical condition was excellent. No visible marks at all. A bit of dirt in the charging port.
It was a Japanese model, got the bands, but also got the camera shutter sound.
Battery started out at 86%, quickly dropped down to 80%, and is still 80% currently. But it has only been lightly used for the last year. Good enough for a light/stand by use for the day. But I wouldn't really rely it as a daily driver though.
I am actually waiting for the 3rd gen to drop in price. Its the perfect cycling phone.
Bought a iPhone 11 few years ago, still going strong. Best decision ever made, if I buy a Chinese budget android, it won’t survive this year.
I already dumped my 11pm, once battery is under 80%, performance sucks.
Partner has a 11pm, slapped a new battery on it last year and it’s still going strong. Cheaper than upgrading.
Got an XR (64GB) a bit over 2 years ago… think it was advertised for $299.
Good nick, battery was at 89% then (now 85%), worked flawlessly.
On iOS 17.2.1 still (it's nagging to have 18 installed), it's getting a bit slower now, but still works fine.
So yeah, can't fault it.
I thought these would have been affected by the 3G switch off?
VoLTE compatible.
I got an XR from Coles for my kid, and got a bunch of warnings with the 3G shutdown. Turns out it is an import model, with limited 4G cover.
Anything to beware of on this?
Like the XR, it only has 3GB of RAM. Works fine now, but I would not count on any upgrades. Some new IOS features require 8GB minimum.
But a great size. Jobs hated bigger screens for a reason.
phone for someone with basic needs,
What is this "basic needs" rubbish? Comes across as snobby. Only one camera, but it is quite decent. Great screen. Performance is good. Latest OS.
3G is switched off, so if you get an import then send it back.
I had the same thing with the XR I got. It has bands 1 and 3 so good for the city but no band 28 so technically they are misrepresenting but I thinks it’s wronf
Go back and see Coles, if you've bought in the last year they'll give you a refund.
Battery life, if not renewed (it won't be) could be a problem as it was not great from new. I would hope they guarantee 80% of original.
I am getting one strictly because it was a $799 phone, it still is a good phone and it can sit in one car fulltime for calls, call diversions, MP4 music, Waze and Siri questions. It is IP67 water proof and it does VoLTE No more… Not Babe where is my phone, babe Ring me, I think I left my phone at work
Thank you OP it will of course be nicked by my rear seat irritants.
I wouldn’t buy this with guaranteed 80% battery life… that’s basically in need of a new battery (or about to be).
Better to buy this from Green Gadget for $223 (ebayplus) with new battery.
https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/175479886617
I would rather buy the Coles one and get a real battery replacement from the Apple Store.
How much is that?
Are there more details about the phone's condition? What exactly does "premium" mean? Is it better than other refurbished phones? Are we talking good, excellent, mint condition, etc? 100% battery?
Premium literally means nothing. They use "Very Good," "Excellent," and "As New" to grade their refurbed phone. On their website, the "As New" condition for this model is marked for the same price($260), so I assume it's "As New".
As New - No signs of wear. Item is flawless and in pristine condition. 100% fully functional.
Check out Boost's site. Their phones are all listed as Premium Refurbished but condition can be very good $203, excellent $211 or as-new $220 (no stock). I reckon the Coles inventory will all be "very good" as that's the cheapest pricing. Boost avoids any mention of battery capacity so expect anything above 80%. Phones with new batteries are listed separately.
Showing $260 for me
In 2 days
As per title
I should explain. I did read the part where it said tomorrow but I'm actually from the future and sometimes I forget to adjust when in your timeline. Good day.
I have one as a work phone and the battery life is horrendous!
The OzBargain favourite $12 inui will help. A 10000mAh powerbank can charge this phone at least 3 times to 100%.
you can sometimes find a gen3 for $100-150 on fbmp
Battery at 100% or 80% life can someone please confirm?
Given it doesn't mention anything about a new battery, I would bet the latter over the former.
Can we return if battery is not 100%?
If you happen to get a handset with 100% battery capacity it means the battery is new, happy days. Most other resellers guarantee 80%. Boost Mobile premium refurbished phones purchased from Coles are sold with a 30 Day Satisfaction Guarantee. Coles doesn't process refunds/returns, you have to return your handset to Alegre via Australia Post.
Big fan of home button
Be careful - most of these refurb 2nd Gen SEs don't have Band 28 due to being imports.
The product description says
VOLTE-capable and compatible with 4G 700MHz (B28)
Just return it if it does not have it
How can you check?
If the model number is A2296 then it supports B28.
A2275 for US and A2298 for China does not support B28.
If you have access to the phone go to Settings > General > About.
Under “Model” there will be a number like MXXX3X/A. Tap on that model number and it should change to “A1234”.
For the SE Gen 2:
A2296 = Global (should be the one sold in AU)
A2275 = USA, Canada (does not support LTE B28)
A2298 = China (doesn’t not support B28, nor does it support eSIM)
So A2296 is the model you are looking for if you want it to work on all networks here.
Why is band 28 important?
Does this support e-sim?
VoLTE uses band 28
So with 3G being shutdown, not having VoLTE would mean you cannot make or receive calls?
Looks like 2nd gen support e-sims
So with 3G being shutdown, not having VoLTE would mean you cannot make or receive calls?
Yes.
VoLTE uses band 28
That's garbage. VoLTE works on any band.
Band 28 is desirable because it has the lowest frequency of all the mobile bands used in Australia, which means it has the best penetration into buildings. Which also means that Telcos like it a lot, as it gives the best coverage. If your phone doesn't have band 28, you're more likely to find areas where you have poor or no reception, and more likely to have dropped calls.
Can this replace my iPhone 7 plus?
Smaller screen but newer phone…
Battery wont last a day.
Showing $260
read carefully, "IN 2 DAYS"
My bad… from tomorrow 11pm for me.
As others have said battery life is terrible.
As a spare backup or basic texting / calling phone no issue but as a daily driver forget it.
Ok my eyes are getting a little worse as I age…
Are there good accessibility options in iPhones to adjust things like text and icons and interface to make things bigger and more readable?
I would be coming from a 6.5 inch android which is easily readable for me…
![[Refurb] Apple iPhone SE 2nd Gen (2020) 64GB $169 @ Coles](https://files.ozbargain.com.au/n/86/884586.jpg?h=3c29b588)
How many years of updates will this get?