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  • What Are My Rights If My Smartphone Screen Cracks Within Warranty?

    • A cracked smartphone screen can be frustrating—and expensive. But if it happens during your warranty period, you might wonder whether you're entitled to a free repair or replacement. In the UK, your rights depend on how the damage occurred, the type of warranty, and the protections offered under the Consumer Rights Act 2015.

      This guide breaks down your legal rights, practical steps, and real-world examples to help you navigate the situation with confidence.

      🛡️ Understanding Your Legal Rights

      Consumer Rights Act 2015
      Under UK law, all goods—including smartphones—must be:

      – Of satisfactory quality
      – Fit for purpose
      – As described

      If your phone develops a fault within six years of purchase (five in Scotland), you may be entitled to a free repair, replacement, or refund, depending on the circumstances.

      However, there's a key distinction:
      Faulty screens due to manufacturing defects are covered.
      Accidental damage (e.g. dropping your phone) is not covered under statutory rights.

      Manufacturer Warranty vs. Statutory Rights
      Most manufacturers offer a 1- or 2-year warranty, but this does not override your rights under the Consumer Rights Act. Even if the manufacturer says you're out of warranty, you may still have a claim if the fault was present at the time of purchase.

      🧾 Is a Cracked Screen Covered?

      ✅ Covered If:
      – The screen cracked due to a manufacturing defect.
      – The damage occurred during normal use.
      – The phone was purchased less than six years ago and the fault was inherent.

      ❌ Not Covered If:
      – You dropped the phone or caused the damage accidentally.
      – The screen cracked due to external pressure, water damage, or misuse.
      – You’ve modified the device or used unofficial parts.

      📝 What To Do If Your Screen Cracks

      Step 1: Check Your Warranty
      – Look at the manufacturer’s warranty terms.
      – Some brands (e.g. AppleCare+) offer accidental damage cover for a fee.

      Step 2: Assess the Cause
      – Was the crack spontaneous or linked to a known defect?
      – If yes, you may have a claim under the Consumer Rights Act.

      Step 3: Contact the Seller
      – Your legal claim is against the retailer, not the manufacturer.
      – Explain the issue and request a repair or replacement.
      – Use Which?’s template letter for faulty goods.

      Step 4: Provide Evidence
      – If the fault appears after six months, you may need to prove it was present at purchase.
      – Ask for a technical report or get an independent assessment.

      Step 5: Escalate If Needed
      – If the retailer refuses, consider:
      Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)
      Ombudsman services
      Small Claims Court (for claims under £10,000)

      🧪 Real-World Example

      Case Study: Samsung Device
      A user reported a cracked screen on a Samsung phone two years after purchase. Samsung declined to repair it, citing expired warranty. However, the user invoked Section 23 of the Consumer Rights Act, arguing the fault was inherent. The retailer eventually agreed to a free repair.

      🧠 Tips for Success

      Act quickly: Don’t delay reporting the issue.
      Keep records: Save receipts, emails, and photos.
      Be clear and polite: Stick to the facts and refer to your legal rights.
      Know your options: Statutory rights last longer than manufacturer warranties.

      📌 Summary

      Situation Covered by Warranty? Covered by Consumer Rights Act?
      Cracked screen from manufacturing defect ✅ Yes ✅ Yes
      Accidental drop ❌ No ❌ No
      Fault appears after 6 months ❌ Maybe (proof needed) ✅ If fault was inherent
      Within 1-year manufacturer warranty ✅ Usually ✅ Yes

      🔗 Useful Resources

      Consumer Rights Act 2015 Overview – GOV.UK
      Which? Guide to Faulty Mobile Phones
      Apple UK Warranty and Consumer Law

      If your smartphone screen cracks within warranty, don’t assume you’re out of luck. With the right approach and understanding of UK law, you may be entitled to a free repair or replacement—especially if the damage wasn’t your fault.


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  • Can I Return a Faulty Smartphone Bought Online Under UK Law?

    • If you've bought a smartphone online and it turns out to be faulty, UK law gives you strong consumer protection. Whether the issue is a dead battery, a broken screen, or software that doesn’t work properly, you have rights under the Consumer Rights Act 2015 and the Consumer Contracts Regulations 2013.

      This guide explains your legal rights, the steps to take, and what to expect when returning a faulty smartphone bought online.

      Your Legal Rights at a Glance

      Consumer Rights Act 2015 says all goods must be:

      Of satisfactory quality

      Fit for purpose

      As described

      If your smartphone doesn’t meet these standards, it’s considered faulty. You’re entitled to a repair, replacement, or refund, depending on when you report the fault.

      Consumer Contracts Regulations 2013 apply to online purchases and give you a 14-day cooling-off period. You can cancel and return the item even if it’s not faulty.

      Returning a Faulty Smartphone: Step-by-Step

      Step 1: Check the Fault
      Make sure the issue isn’t caused by user error or damage after delivery. Common faults include:

      Phone won’t charge

      Screen flickers or doesn’t respond

      Software crashes or won’t update

      Step 2: Act Quickly

      Time Since Delivery Your Rights
      Within 30 days Full refund if faulty
      31 days to 6 months Free repair or replacement. If that fails, partial refund
      After 6 months You may still claim, but you’ll need to prove the fault existed at delivery

      Step 3: Contact the Retailer
      You must contact the seller, not the manufacturer. Explain the fault clearly and request a refund, repair, or replacement. Include:

      Order number

      Description of the fault

      Photos or videos (if helpful)

      Step 4: Return the Phone
      Once the retailer agrees, return the phone using tracked delivery. Keep proof of postage. You may need to:

      Reset the phone

      Remove personal data

      Include original packaging (if possible)

      Step 5: Get Your Refund or Replacement
      Retailers must refund you within 14 days of receiving the returned item. If they offer a repair or replacement, it should be done within a reasonable time and without cost to you.

      Real-World Example

      Case: Sarah buys a smartphone online from a UK retailer. It arrives with a faulty touchscreen. She reports the fault within 10 days. The retailer offers a full refund after confirming the issue.

      Outcome: Sarah gets her money back, including delivery costs, under the Consumer Rights Act.

      Common Pitfalls to Avoid

      Don’t contact the manufacturer first. Your contract is with the retailer.

      Don’t delay. Waiting too long may reduce your options.

      Don’t accept a credit note unless you want one. You’re entitled to a refund.

      What If You Paid by Credit Card?

      If the retailer refuses to cooperate, and you paid £100 or more by credit card, you can claim under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act. Your card provider shares liability and may refund you directly.

      Summary

      You have 30 days for a full refund if the smartphone is faulty.

      After that, you’re entitled to a repair or replacement.

      Always deal with the retailer, not the manufacturer.

      Use tracked postage and keep records.

      You’re protected by the Consumer Rights Act 2015 and Consumer Contracts Regulations 2013.

      For more details, visit:


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  • How to Complain About Poor Signal Reception on a Contract Phone (UK Guide)

    • If you’re stuck with a mobile contract but can barely make calls or use data due to poor signal, you’re not alone. Many UK consumers face this frustrating issue. The good news? You have rights, and there are clear steps you can take to complain and potentially get compensation or cancel your contract.

      📶 Step 1: Check the Signal and Coverage

      Confirm the issue isn’t temporary or device-related. Use your provider’s coverage checker, try your SIM in another phone, and ask neighbours on the same network if they have issues.

      📝 Step 2: Contact Your Provider

      Raise the issue with customer service, mentioning your postcode and specific problems. Keep records of what’s said, and allow time for any proposed fixes.

      ⚖️ Step 3: Know Your Legal Rights

      The Consumer Rights Act 2015 says services must be provided with reasonable care and skill, and be fit for purpose.

      “Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, services must be provided with reasonable care and skill. I believe your mobile service has not met this standard due to persistent poor signal.”

      📬 Step 4: Escalate the Complaint

      Request a deadlock letter or wait 8 weeks, then escalate to the correct ombudsman scheme:

      Ombudsman Contact Providers Covered
      CISAS cisas.org.uk Some major UK networks
      Communications Ombudsman commsombudsman.org Others like Sky, TalkTalk, etc.

      💡 Step 5: What to Include in Your Complaint

      Include your name, account details, signal issue details, actions taken, and desired outcome. Attach evidence like screenshots, call logs, or correspondence.

      🧾 Real-Life Example

      Case: Poor signal after moving house
      Emma moved to a rural area and had zero indoor signal. The coverage map showed “good” service. After weeks of unresolved complaints, she contacted the Communications Ombudsman. She received a refund and was allowed to exit her contract early.

      🛑 Can You Cancel Your Contract?

      If the service is fundamentally failing and can’t be fixed, you may cancel without penalty, switch provider, or get refunded—depending on contract terms and coverage claims.

      🧠 Tips to Strengthen Your Case

      Use Ofcom’s mobile faults guide, mention financial impact, and keep your tone clear and factual.

      📞 Still Need Help?

      Contact Citizens Advice or call their consumer helpline on 0808 223 1133 for further support.

      ✅ Summary

      Poor signal isn’t just annoying—it may breach your consumer rights. By following these steps and quoting the Consumer Rights Act 2015, you can escalate effectively and seek proper resolution.


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  • How Do I Cancel My Vodafone Contract?

    • Cancelling your Vodafone contract doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you’re switching networks, cutting costs, or just simplifying your life, this guide walks you through the process step by step. We’ll cover your options, what to expect, and how to avoid surprise fees—using plain English and verified sources.

      🧭Quick Overview: Your Cancellation Options

      Situation Method Notice Period Keep Your Number? Early Exit Fees?
      Switching networks & keeping number PAC Code None Yes Yes, if in minimum term
      Switching networks & getting new number STAC Code None No Yes, if in minimum term
      Not switching networks Standard Cancellation 30 days N/A Yes, if in minimum term

      📱Option 1: Cancel with a PAC Code (Keep Your Number)

      1. Request your PAC code: Text PAC to 65075 from your Vodafone phone. You’ll get a reply with your PAC code and any early termination fees.

      2. Give the PAC code to your new provider: They’ll handle the switch and cancel your Vodafone contract automatically.

      3. Check final bill: Vodafone will send a final bill with any remaining charges.

      Good to know: You don’t need to contact Vodafone directly. The switch usually happens within one working day. You’ll keep your number and avoid the 30-day notice period.

      Source: Vodafone UK

      🔄Option 2: Cancel with a STAC Code (Get a New Number)

      1. Request your STAC code: Text STAC to 75075 from your Vodafone phone. You’ll receive your STAC code and any early exit fees.

      2. Give the STAC code to your new provider: They’ll cancel your Vodafone contract and assign you a new number.

      3. Review final bill: Vodafone will send a final invoice with any outstanding charges.

      Good to know: No need to speak to Vodafone. No 30-day notice period. You’ll start fresh with a new number.

      Source: Ken’s Tech Tips

      📞Option 3: Standard Cancellation (Not Switching Networks)

      1. Call Vodafone customer service: Dial 191 from your Vodafone phone or 03333 040 191 from any UK phone.

      2. Request cancellation: You’ll need to give 30 days’ notice. Vodafone may try to offer you a better deal—stay firm if you’ve made up your mind.

      3. Return any equipment: If you’ve got a router or device on loan, return it promptly to avoid extra charges.

      4. Check your final bill: Vodafone will send a final invoice after the 30-day period ends.

      Good to know: You must give 30 days’ notice. You’ll be charged for service during that period. If you’re still in contract, early exit fees apply.

      Source: Apps UK

      💸Early Termination Fees: What to Expect

      If you’re still within your minimum contract term, Vodafone may charge an early exit fee. This is usually calculated as:

      Monthly cost × remaining months – VAT discount

      Example: £25/month plan with 6 months left = £150. Vodafone may reduce this slightly to reflect VAT savings.

      You’ll be told the exact fee when you request your PAC or STAC code.

      Source: Ken’s Tech Tips

      🛑Can I Avoid Exit Fees?

      Wait until your minimum term ends. Most Vodafone contracts last 12 or 24 months. After that, you can cancel without penalty.
      Use Vodafone’s coverage guarantee. If you have poor signal at home or work, Vodafone may let you leave early. You’ll need to report the issue and give them a chance to fix it.
      Check for price increases. If Vodafone raises prices mid-contract, you may have the right to cancel penalty-free. This depends on the terms you agreed to—check your contract or speak to customer service.

      Source: Vodafone UK

      📦Returning Equipment

      Ask Vodafone for a prepaid returns label.
      Keep proof of postage.
      Return items promptly to avoid charges.

      🧾Final Bill Checklist

      Check for early termination fees.
      Check charges for unreturned equipment.
      Check final usage (calls, texts, data).
      Check refunds for overpayments.

      🧠FAQs

      Can I cancel online? Not directly. You’ll need to use SMS (PAC/STAC) or call Vodafone for standard cancellation.
      Will I lose my number? Only if you use a STAC code or don’t switch to another provider.
      What happens to my direct debit? Vodafone will cancel it after your final bill is paid. Don’t cancel it yourself too early.
      Can I cancel a broadband contract the same way? Broadband cancellations require a call to Vodafone and a 30-day notice period. PAC/STAC codes don’t apply.

      📣Pro Tips for a Smooth Exit

      Set a reminder to check your contract end date.
      Use PAC/STAC codes to avoid the 30-day notice.
      Review your final bill carefully.
      Return equipment promptly.
      Be polite but firm with customer service.

      🧩Summary: Choose What Fits You

      Scenario Best Method
      Switching networks & keeping number PAC Code
      Switching networks & starting fresh STAC Code
      Not switching networks Standard Cancellation

      🔗Sources

      Vodafone UK cancellation guide

      Ken’s Tech Tips: How to Cancel Vodafone Contract

      Apps UK: Step-by-Step Cancellation Guide


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  • How Do I Cancel My Orange Contract?

    • 📱

      If you're trying to cancel your Orange mobile contract, you're not alone. Whether you're switching providers, moving abroad, or simply cutting costs, ending your agreement with Orange (now part of EE in the UK) can feel like navigating a maze. This guide breaks it down into clear, actionable steps—so you can cancel with confidence and avoid unexpected fees.

      Quick Overview

      Understanding your Orange contract

      Checking your contract end date

      Cancelling in or out of contract

      Avoiding early termination fees

      Keeping your number (PAC code)

      What to do if you're moving abroad

      Contacting Orange/EE

      Sample cancellation letter

      FAQs and common pitfalls

      Step 1: Understand Your Contract Terms

      Before you cancel, check:

      • Contract length: Most Orange contracts were 12, 18 or 24 months.

      • End date: You’ll need this to avoid early termination fees.

      • Notice period: Typically 30 days’ notice is required.

      • Early termination charges: If you cancel before the end date, you may be charged the remaining monthly fees minus VAT and any discounts.

      You can find these details in your original contract paperwork, by logging into your EE account (Orange accounts were migrated), or by calling customer service on 150 from your Orange/EE mobile.

      Step 2: Check If You're Still in Contract

      If your contract has ended, you’re free to leave with 30 days’ notice. If you're still in contract:

      • You’ll likely face an early termination fee.

      • You may be eligible for a reduced fee if you’re close to the end date.

      Use EE’s online account portal or call 150 to confirm your status.

      Step 3: Decide How You Want to Cancel

      Option A: Cancel at End of Contract

      Give 30 days’ notice by phone or in writing. No fees apply. You can request a PAC code to keep your number.

      Option B: Cancel Mid-Contract

      You’ll pay an early termination fee. Ask EE for a breakdown of the charges before confirming. Consider switching to a SIM-only plan instead to reduce costs.

      Option C: Cancel Due to Moving Abroad

      If you're relocating outside the UK, Orange may waive fees if you provide proof of relocation (e.g. tenancy agreement, job offer) and return any equipment (e.g. Livebox routers). Always get written confirmation.

      Step 4: Contact Orange/EE to Cancel

      Phone

      Call 150 from your Orange/EE mobile or 07973 100 150 from any other phone. Ask for contract cancellation and PAC code (if keeping your number).

      Online Chat

      Visit EE’s contact page and use live chat.

      Post

      Send a written cancellation letter to:

      EE Customer Services
      6 Camberwell Way
      Sunderland
      SR3 3XN
      United Kingdom

      Include your name, address, mobile number, account number, cancellation request and signature.

      Sample Cancellation Letter

      [Your Name]
      [Your Address]
      [Postcode]
      [Date]
      
      EE Customer Services
      6 Camberwell Way
      Sunderland
      SR3 3XN
      
      Dear Sir/Madam,
      
      I am writing to request cancellation of my Orange mobile contract associated with the number [Your Mobile Number] and account number [Your Account Number].
      
      My contract end date is [Insert Date], and I am providing the required 30 days’ notice. Please confirm the cancellation in writing and ensure no further charges are applied beyond this period.
      
      If applicable, please issue a PAC code so I may retain my number.
      
      Yours faithfully,
      [Your Signature]
      [Your Printed Name]
            

      Step 5: Request a PAC Code (If Keeping Your Number)

      Want to keep your number when switching providers? Ask for a PAC code. It’s valid for 30 days and must be used by your new provider to transfer your number. You can request it via text: send “PAC” to 65075. Once your number is ported, your Orange contract will automatically end.

      Step 6: Watch for Final Charges

      After cancellation, you’ll receive a final bill covering any remaining usage or fees. If you paid in advance, you may be due a refund. Keep an eye on your bank account—some users report continued charges after cancellation.

      If you’re wrongly charged, contact EE immediately, raise a complaint via EE’s complaints page, and escalate to Ombudsman Services: Communications if unresolved.

      Common Pitfalls to Avoid

      Mistake How to Avoid
      Cancelling too early Check your contract end date first
      Not requesting PAC code Ask during cancellation to keep your number
      Failing to return equipment Return routers or devices if required
      Not getting written confirmation Always ask for a cancellation email or letter
      Assuming charges will stop automatically Monitor your bank account post-cancellation

      Troubleshooting: Still Being Charged?

      If you’ve cancelled but Orange/EE is still billing you:

      1. Contact EE customer service with your cancellation reference

      2. Request a refund and stop future payments

      3. If unresolved, raise a formal complaint

      4. Escalate to the Ombudsman after 8 weeks or if deadlock is reached

      You can also contact your bank to block further direct debits.

      FAQs

      Can I cancel without paying fees if I have poor signal?

      Possibly. If EE fails to provide adequate service and you’ve reported it, you may argue breach of contract. Gather evidence and escalate if needed.

      What happens to my number if I don’t request a PAC code?

      Your number will be lost once the contract ends.

      Can I cancel online?

      EE prefers cancellations via phone or written notice. Live chat may work, but always get confirmation.

      What if I’m on a business contract?

      Terms may differ. Contact your account manager or EE business support.

      Final Thoughts

      Cancelling your Orange contract doesn’t have to be a headache. With the right steps, clear communication, and a bit of persistence, you can exit smoothly and avoid unnecessary fees. Always check your contract terms, give proper notice, and keep records of all correspondence.

      If you’re switching providers, don’t forget your PAC code—and if you hit a snag, don’t hesitate to escalate. You’ve got rights, and you deserve a clean break.


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