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The Aple iPhone 11S: A Counterfeit Threat Flooding Kenya’s Smartphone Market

Kenya’s smartphone market is a thriving hub for premium devices, but it is also a prime target for counterfeit products like the “Aple iPhone 11S.” This fake phone, with its deliberately misspelled brand name, mimics the genuine Apple iPhone 11, a flagship smartphone launched in September 2019. By exploiting Apple’s reputation for innovation and quality, the Aple iPhone 11S deceives budget-conscious consumers with its low price and superficial resemblance to the real device. This article examines why the Aple iPhone 11S is a counterfeit flooding the Kenyan market, what makes it fake, how it compares to the authentic iPhone 11, their respective prices and purchase locations, and why consumers should avoid fake phones.

Why the Aple iPhone 11S Is a Fake Phone

The Aple iPhone 11S is not an official product from Apple, a global leader in smartphone manufacturing. The misspelling of “Apple” as “Aple” is a deliberate tactic by counterfeiters to mimic the brand while evading legal scrutiny, similar to other fakes like “Sammsong” or “Nokkiya.” Kenya’s smartphone market is particularly vulnerable to counterfeits, with the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) estimating that up to 40% of phones in circulation may be fake, contributing to an estimated KSh 30 billion in annual tax evasion. The Aple iPhone 11S targets price-sensitive consumers, flooding online marketplaces and informal retail channels with cheap knockoffs that promise flagship features at a fraction of the cost. No official iPhone 11S exists in Apple’s lineup, which includes the iPhone 11, 11 Pro, and 11 Pro Max, confirming its counterfeit nature. Discussions on platforms like Reddit highlight Nairobi’s issue with fake iPhones being sold as genuine at inflated prices.

What Makes the Aple iPhone 11S Fake?

Several characteristics expose the Aple iPhone 11S as a counterfeit:

1. Misleading Branding: The name “Aple” closely resembles Apple’s logo and font, but the missing “p” is a clear indicator of fraud. The “11S” suffix is fabricated, as Apple’s 2019 lineup does not include an “S” variant for the iPhone 11. Packaging often features low-quality printing, misspellings, or incorrect fonts, unlike Apple’s sleek, high-quality packaging.
2. Nonexistent Model: Apple released the iPhone 11, 11 Pro, and 11 Pro Max in September 2019, but no “iPhone 11S” has ever been produced. Counterfeiters invent model names to capitalize on the iPhone 11’s popularity, confusing buyers unfamiliar with Apple’s naming conventions.
3. Inferior Build Quality: The fake phone mimics the iPhone 11’s 6.1-inch display and aluminum design but uses cheap plastic instead of Apple’s Gorilla Glass front and back, aerospace-grade aluminum frame, and IP68 water and dust resistance. It may feel lighter or cheaper, with signs of wear like scratches or dents, as noted by tech enthusiast Bill Ngare.
4. Substandard Hardware: The Aple iPhone 11S typically uses low-end processors (e.g., outdated MediaTek MT6580), low-resolution LCD displays, and poor-quality cameras, unlike the iPhone 11’s A13 Bionic chip, 12MP + 12MP dual-camera system, and 6.1-inch Liquid Retina HD display with 326 PPI.
5. Software Issues: The counterfeit runs a modified Android version (often Android 8 or 9) disguised as iOS, with a poorly replicated interface that may include bloatware or malware, posing security risks. Users may notice issues like inability to sign into iCloud, download apps from the App Store, or receive iOS updates, as reported with fake iPhones in Kenya. The genuine iPhone 11 runs iOS 13, upgradable to iOS 18, with seamless Apple ecosystem integration.
6. Invalid IMEI: Counterfeit phones often have invalid or mismatched IMEI numbers. In Kenya, consumers can verify authenticity by texting the IMEI (obtained by dialing *#06#) to 1555, a free CA service, or checking Apple’s Check Coverage page (https://checkcoverage.apple.com). A message indicating an invalid serial number confirms the device is fake.
7. Poor Accessories: The fake phone comes with low-quality, unbranded chargers and cables, unlike Apple’s high-quality Lightning accessories supporting 18W fast charging and MagSafe compatibility.

Comparison with the Apple iPhone 11

The Aple iPhone 11S attempts to emulate the Apple iPhone 11, a flagship smartphone launched in September 2019. Below is a comparison based on available specifications:

The iPhone 11 offers a vibrant Liquid Retina HD display, powerful performance with the A13 Bionic chip, and a dual-camera system with Night Mode and 4K video recording, delivering professional-grade photography. Its IP68 rating, all-day battery life, and iOS ecosystem make it a premium choice. Available in Black, Green, Yellow, Purple, Red, and White, it remains popular in Kenya. The Aple iPhone 11S, in contrast, delivers sluggish performance, poor camera quality, and no Apple-specific features like Face ID or iCloud, rendering it a poor substitute.

Prices and Purchase Locations

• Aple iPhone 11S: Priced between KSh 10,000–20,000, this counterfeit is sold at a significantly lower cost than the genuine phone, appealing to budget buyers. It is commonly found on online marketplaces like Jiji.co.ke, Kilimall, and unverified sellers on Jumia Kenya, as well as in informal markets like Luthuli Avenue and Gikomba in Nairobi, notorious for counterfeit goods. Listings on Jiji.co.ke advertise suspiciously cheap iPhones starting at KSh 6,000, often with vague descriptions.
  • Purchase Link: Jiji.co.ke – Mobile Phones (Note: Specific listings for the Aple iPhone 11S may not be explicitly labeled but appear under suspiciously cheap iPhone categories.)
  • Purchase Link: Kilimall – Smartphones (Buyers should verify seller credibility due to the prevalence of fakes.)
• Apple iPhone 11: Priced at approximately KSh 36,000–40,000 (4GB/128GB) in Kenya for refurbished or new units, depending on the retailer. It is available from authorized retailers like Phone Place Kenya, Mobile Hub Kenya, and Phones Store Kenya, ensuring genuine products with warranties (e.g., one-year warranty at Phone Place Kenya). Prices may vary based on storage (64GB, 128GB, 256GB) and condition.
  • Purchase Link: Phone Place Kenya – Apple iPhone 11
  • Purchase Link: Mobile Hub Kenya – Apple iPhone 11
  • Purchase Link: Phones Store Kenya – Apple iPhone 11

Why People Should Avoid Fake Phones Like the Aple iPhone 11S

Purchasing counterfeit phones like the Aple iPhone 11S carries significant risks:

1. Poor Performance and Durability: Fake phones often lag, freeze, or fail during basic tasks. Their low-quality components, such as batteries, may overheat or degrade quickly, posing safety hazards like fires or explosions. The iPhone 11’s A13 Bionic chip ensures smooth performance, while the Aple iPhone 11S’s generic hardware falls short.
2. Security Risks: Counterfeit devices frequently come with pre-installed malware or lack proper security protocols, risking personal data like bank details, critical in Kenya where mobile banking is prevalent. Over 180 million counterfeit smartphones are sold annually with the intent to compromise user information. The iPhone 11 includes Face ID and a secure enclave, unlike the vulnerable Aple iPhone 11S.
3. No Warranty or Support: Unlike the iPhone 11, which includes warranties from authorized retailers and long-term iOS updates, fakes offer no support, leaving users stranded if issues arise. Authorized retailers like Mobile Hub Kenya provide reliable after-sales service.
4. Economic Impact: Counterfeit phones contribute to an estimated KSh 30 billion in annual tax evasion in Kenya and undermine legitimate manufacturers, stifling innovation and economic growth.
5. Environmental Harm: Fake phones use substandard components, such as low-quality batteries, which are disposed of at higher rates, contributing to environmental pollution.
6. No Long-Term Value: While cheaper upfront, counterfeit phones fail quickly, requiring replacements that negate initial savings. Genuine iPhones, like the iPhone 11, retain significant resale value and functionality, supported by Apple’s ecosystem and updates.

Conclusion

The Aple iPhone 11S is a counterfeit device exploiting Apple’s reputation in Kenya’s price-sensitive market. By mimicking the iPhone 11 with inferior materials, outdated software, and fake branding, it deceives buyers seeking premium tech. Consumers can protect themselves by verifying IMEI numbers through the CA’s service (text to 1555) or Apple’s Check Coverage page (https://checkcoverage.apple.com) and purchasing from reputable retailers like Phone Place Kenya, Mobile Hub Kenya, or Phones Store Kenya. Investing in a genuine iPhone 11 ensures superior performance, security, and long-term value, making it a smarter choice for Kenya’s tech-savvy consumers.

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