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Why the SoWhat Flare 13 Is a Fake Phone Flooding the Kenyan Market

Kenya’s vibrant smartphone market, driven by demand for affordable and feature-rich devices, has become a prime target for counterfeit products, with the “SoWhat Flare 13” emerging as a significant fake phone. This article explains why the SoWhat Flare 13 is a counterfeit device, identifies the original phone it likely emulates, and provides practical guidance for consumers to avoid purchasing fake phones. Additionally, we list trusted retailers in Kenya where genuine smartphones can be purchased.

The SoWhat Flare 13: A Counterfeit Device

The SoWhat Flare 13 is not a legitimate product from any recognized smartphone manufacturer. The brand name “SoWhat” does not exist in the portfolios of established companies like Samsung, Xiaomi, Tecno, or Vivo, nor is it associated with any known regional or niche brand. The term “Flare” appears to be a fabricated name designed to sound modern and appealing, mimicking the naming conventions of popular smartphone series. As of July 2025, no reputable manufacturer has released a phone named the SoWhat Flare 13, and its presence in Kenya is likely tied to the proliferation of counterfeit devices, which account for up to 24.6% of handsets in the market, according to a 2020 Business Daily report.

These fake phones are flooding Kenya through informal markets, street vendors, and unregulated online platforms like Jiji.co.ke or social media marketplaces. The Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) has conducted raids, seizing millions of shillings worth of counterfeit phones, yet the problem persists due to smuggling from regions like China and limited consumer awareness. The SoWhat Flare 13 is likely one of many “unknown” or phoney brands designed to deceive buyers by imitating the look and branding of popular smartphones.

The Original Phone: Likely Emulating Tecno Spark Series

The SoWhat Flare 13 appears to emulate smartphones from Tecno’s Spark series, particularly the Tecno Spark 20, a popular budget-friendly model in Kenya known for its sleek design, reliable performance, and affordability. The use of “Flare” may be an attempt to mimic the Spark series’ vibrant and youthful branding. Below are the key specifications of the genuine Tecno Spark 20, as listed by retailers like Phone Place Kenya and Phones Store Kenya:

• Display: 6.6-inch IPS LCD, 720 x 1612 pixels, 90Hz refresh rate, offering vibrant visuals and smooth scrolling.
• Processor: MediaTek Helio G85, octa-core, with Mali-G52 MC2 GPU, suitable for gaming and multitasking.
• RAM and Storage: 4GB/8GB RAM with 128GB/256GB storage, expandable via microSDXC up to 1TB.
• Camera: 50MP dual rear camera with LED flash and 32MP front camera with dual flash for high-quality photos and selfies.
• Battery: 5000mAh with 18W fast charging, providing up to two days of moderate use.
• Operating System: Android 13 with HiOS 13, offering a user-friendly interface with features like Dynamic Port.
• Additional Features: IP53 splash resistance, side-mounted fingerprint sensor, stereo speakers, 4G LTE support.
• Price in Kenya: KSh 15,000–KSh 18,500, depending on the variant and retailer.
• Colors: Gravity Black, Cyber White, Neon Gold, Magic Skin 2.0.

In contrast, counterfeit phones like the SoWhat Flare 13 typically use low-quality components, such as cheap plastic builds, low-resolution displays, and outdated processors. They often run modified Android versions with fake interfaces that mimic HiOS, include bloatware or malware, and feature poor camera performance, posing risks to user data and safety.

Why the SoWhat Flare 13 Is Flooding the Kenyan Market

Several factors contribute to the proliferation of fake phones like the SoWhat Flare 13 in Kenya:

1. Popularity of Tecno’s Spark Series: The Spark series, including the Spark 20, is highly popular for its affordability and modern features, making it a prime target for counterfeiters who mimic its design and branding.
2. Price-Sensitive Market: Kenya’s demand for budget smartphones allows counterfeiters to sell fake phones at prices as low as KSh 5,000, compared to KSh 15,000 for the Spark 20, attracting cost-conscious buyers.
3. Unregulated Sales Channels: Informal markets, street vendors, and online platforms like Jiji.co.ke or social media marketplaces lack stringent seller verification, serving as hubs for counterfeit phones. Platforms like Alibaba and DHgate openly advertise fake phones, including clones of popular brands.
4. Weak Regulatory Enforcement: Despite efforts by the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) and the ACA, counterfeit phones continue to enter through smuggling, often from China. A 2024 report suggested up to 40% of phones in Kenya may be fake.
5. Consumer Unawareness: Many buyers, particularly in rural areas, are unaware of how to verify a phone’s authenticity, making them vulnerable to scams involving convincing packaging and fake logos.

How to Avoid Buying Fake Phones in Kenya

To avoid purchasing a counterfeit phone like the SoWhat Flare 13, follow these steps recommended by the CA, Tecno, and tech experts:

1. Verify the IMEI Number:

• Dial *#06# to display the phone’s IMEI number, or check it on the box or under Settings > About Phone.
• Send the IMEI via SMS to 1555, a free service by the CA, to confirm the phone’s make and model. If the IMEI is invalid or doesn’t match a Tecno model, the phone is likely fake.
• Verify the IMEI and VC number on Tecno’s official verification website (https://www.tecno-mobile.com/warranty) to confirm authenticity.

1. Inspect the Phone Physically:

• Check for misspellings or incorrect logos (e.g., “SoWhat” instead of a known brand like Tecno). Genuine Tecno phones have high-quality builds with precise branding.
• Examine the screen for pixelation or poor color quality. The Spark 20’s 90Hz IPS LCD is vibrant, while fakes often have low-resolution displays.
• Test buttons, ports, and the fingerprint sensor. Counterfeit phones may have loose or misaligned components.

1. Test the Operating System and Performance:

• Genuine Tecno phones run HiOS (e.g., HiOS 13 on Android 13 for the Spark 20) with access to Google Play Store and Tecno’s updates. Fake phones often use modified Android versions with glitches or pre-installed apps like TikTok Lite.
• Test the camera. The Spark 20’s 50MP rear camera produces clear images, while fakes often yield blurry photos. Check EXIF data in the gallery to confirm camera specs.
• Verify HiOS-specific features like Dynamic Port or stereo speakers, which are absent in fakes.

1. Be Cautious of Unrealistic Prices:

• If a phone is priced significantly below the market rate (e.g., KSh 5,000 for a “Flare 13” when the Spark 20 costs KSh 15,000), it’s likely fake. Compare prices with trusted retailers.

1. Buy from Reputable Retailers:

• Purchase from authorized Tecno dealers or trusted stores to ensure authenticity and warranty support. Avoid informal markets, street vendors, or unverified online sellers like those on Alibaba, DHgate, or Jiji.co.ke.
• Check seller ratings and reviews on online platforms to confirm credibility.

1. Examine Packaging and Accessories:

• Genuine Tecno boxes use high-quality printing with clear branding and no spelling errors. Accessories like chargers should have Tecno branding. Fake boxes often have low-resolution printing or fake seals.
• Ensure the box includes a warranty card and user manual from Tecno.

Where to Buy Genuine Tecno Phones in Kenya

To ensure you’re purchasing an authentic Tecno smartphone, such as the Tecno Spark 20, shop at these trusted retailers, which offer genuine devices with warranties and reliable after-sales support:

1. Phone Place Kenya

• Website: www.phoneplacekenya.com
• Stocks the Tecno Spark 20 (KSh 15,000–KSh 18,500) and other models like the Pop 9 and Camon 30. Offers same-day delivery in Nairobi and nationwide shipping.

1. Phones Store Kenya

• Website: phonesstorekenya.com
• Offers the Tecno Spark 20 (KSh 15,000–KSh 17,500) in Gravity Black and Neon Gold, with nationwide delivery and warranties.

1. Jumia Kenya

• Website: www.jumia.co.ke
• Features the Tecno Spark 20 and other Pop, Spark, and Camon series models from verified sellers. Offers pay-on-delivery and discounts. Ensure you buy from authorized vendors.

1. Gadgets Leo

• Website: www.gadgetsleo.com
• Stocks the Tecno Spark 20 (KSh 15,000–KSh 18,000) and models like the Pop 9 and Camon 40. Provides fast delivery and payment on delivery in Nairobi.

1. Avechi Kenya

• Website: www.avechi.co.ke
• Offers the Tecno Spark 20 (KSh 15,000) and other models like the Camon 20 and Pop 9. Provides fast delivery and warranty commitments.

1. Fonexpress Kenya

• Website: fonexpress.net
• Stocks Tecno Spark, Pop, and Camon series, including the Spark 20, through partnerships with Airtel and Phonelink. Offers competitive pricing and delivery.

Conclusion

The SoWhat Flare 13 is a counterfeit smartphone exploiting the popularity of Tecno’s Spark series, particularly the Tecno Spark 20, to deceive Kenyan consumers. Its presence reflects the broader issue of fake phones, which account for a significant market share and pose risks to performance, safety, and data security. By verifying the IMEI number, inspecting the device’s build and software, and purchasing from trusted retailers like Phone Place Kenya, Phones Store Kenya, Jumia, Gadgets Leo, Avechi, or Fonexpress, consumers can avoid scams. Always prioritize authenticity over suspiciously low prices and use the Communications Authority of Kenya’s IMEI check (SMS to 1555) or Tecno’s verification website (https://www.tecno-mobile.com/warranty) to confirm a phone’s legitimacy. Stay vigilant to enjoy the affordability and quality of a genuine Tecno smartphone.

HUBA MAISHA MAGIC BONGO 31ST JULY 2025 THURSDAY LEO USIKU SEASON 14 EPISODE 60