If you make an exchange at an Apple store, unless you want a refurbished item, insist that what you

[ohiosmith]

are given is in orginal packaging from current inventory.

When I unpacked my new iPad I noticed several dents on the back. The replacement I was given was not in the same packaging as the original but rather in a plain cardboard box with no accessories. I was told to keep the accessories that came with my original purchase. I asked the "genius" who assisted me if the replacement unit was new or refurbished. He assured me that it was new and Apple maintains a stock of items strictly for replacements that are not in the "fancy" boxes. I accepted his explanation.

A couple of days later while trying to upgrade to the latest software, the unit froze completely. I called the store and was connected to AppleCare. After more than an hour on the phone the AC rep told me to take the iPad back to the store. I asked him if there is a way to check if the unit had ever been refurbished. He ran the serial number and confirmed that it was not a new unit and had been restored to original specs for use as a replacement for returned units.

I called the store several times trying to contact the Manager. It was only after I called another Apple store and asked for the contact information for the Regional Director that I was contacted by the Manager of the store where I bought it. At this point she fell over herself trying to solve the problem.

To their credit Apple did give me another iPad with the assurance that my situation was an anomaly and not typical of Apple.

Buyer beware.

[MilesColtrane]

1. I would hope somebody got fired for that.

[ohiosmith]

2. I don't think so. They all disavowed all knowledge of the incident.

[MilesColtrane]

3. What a freaking mess.

I'd send Steve Jobs a brief email about the whole experience.

[ohiosmith]

4. I'm not sure that Steve would give a shit.