Key Points

• Research suggests the “iPhonee 13S” is likely a counterfeit phone, as there is no official Apple model by that name, and the misspelling “iPhonee” indicates potential deception.
• It seems likely that this fake phone is emulating the genuine iPhone 13 series, particularly the iPhone 13 or iPhone 13 Pro, released in 2021, given the naming convention.
• Reports indicate counterfeit phones, including potentially the “iPhonee 13S,” are flooding the Kenyan market, with estimates suggesting up to 40% may be fake.
• Consumers can avoid fake phones by buying from authorized dealers, verifying authenticity via IMEI and serial number checks, and inspecting packaging for quality.

Why It’s Fake

The “iPhonee 13S” is likely a counterfeit because Apple has not released a model called “iPhone 13S.” As of July 2025, the latest iPhone models are the iPhone 16 series, with no “S” variants for the iPhone 13 series, which was launched in 2021. The extra ‘e’ in “iPhonee” is a common tactic used by counterfeiters to mimic the legitimate brand, suggesting this is a fake designed to deceive consumers.

The Original Phone It Emulates

Research suggests the fake “iPhonee 13S” is probably emulating the iPhone 13 or iPhone 13 Pro, part of the iPhone 13 series released in September 2021. These models feature advanced technology like the A15 Bionic chip and high-quality cameras, making them popular targets for counterfeits. The “13S” name might suggest an updated version, though no such model exists officially.

How to Avoid Buying Fake Phones

To protect yourself, buy from authorized Apple resellers in Kenya, such as iStore KE, Mac & More Solutions, or FoneXpress. Verify the phone’s IMEI by dialing *#06# and checking on Apple’s website, inspect the packaging for official branding, and ensure it runs genuine iOS with App Store access. Be cautious of prices significantly lower than official rates, typically above KES 70,000 for iPhone 13 models.

Where to Buy the Original Version

You can purchase genuine iPhones at authorized stores, including:

• iStore KE
• Mac & More Solutions
• FoneXpress
• Apple Center Ke
• Salute iWorld
• Elite Digital Solutions

Comprehensive Analysis: The iPhonee 13S and Counterfeit Phones in Kenya

This detailed report explores the issue of the “iPhonee 13S,” identified as a counterfeit phone reportedly flooding the Kenyan market, and provides a thorough examination of its origins, potential emulations, and strategies for consumers to avoid purchasing fake devices. It also includes information on authorized purchasing locations in Kenya, supported by extensive research conducted as of 08:02 PM EAT on Sunday, July 20, 2025.

Background and Context

The Kenyan smartphone market has seen a significant rise in counterfeit devices in recent years, with fake iPhones being particularly prevalent. The “iPhonee 13S” has emerged as a concerning example, with reports suggesting it is currently flooding the market. Recent social media posts, such as an X post from @AfricanHub_ on July 14, 2025, mentioning a man of Arab descent caught selling fake phones in Kenya, and another from @TheNairobiTimez on June 26, 2025, about Gen Z cornering a seller of fake Samsung phones, highlight the ongoing issue. While these posts do not specifically mention the “iPhonee 13S,” they indicate a broader problem of counterfeit phones in Kenya, with an estimated 30% to 40% of mobile phones being fake, according to the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) in February 2024, translating to 18.87 million to 25.16 million fake devices out of 64.67 million total devices by September 2023.

Why the iPhonee 13S is Considered Fake

Extensive searches through Apple’s official website ([Apple (KE)]([invalid url, do not cite])) and tech databases like GSMArena reveal no listing for an “iPhonee 13S” model. This absence is significant, as Apple’s current lineup in July 2025 includes the iPhone 16 series (released in September 2024), with the iPhone 17 expected in September 2025, and no mention of an iPhone 18 series. The iPhone 13 series, released in September 2021, includes the iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, and iPhone 13 Pro Max, with no “S” variant. The misspelling “iPhonee” with two ‘e’s is a common indicator of counterfeiting, likely designed to mimic the legitimate “iPhone” brand while avoiding direct trademark issues. Articles like Mwakilishi.com (October 5, 2023) and The Standard (April 1, 2024) warn about fake iPhones in Kenya, with reports of people buying boxed iPhones that turn out to be refurbished, pre-owned, or with replaced components, supporting the likelihood that “iPhonee 13S” is a counterfeit.

Further research into Apple’s naming conventions shows they typically use “S” for incremental updates (e.g., iPhone 6S, iPhone XS), but after iPhone X, they moved to numerical increments without “S” models for generations like 12, 13, 14, etc. This reinforces that there is no official iPhone 13S, making “iPhonee 13S” a clear counterfeit.

Potential Original Models and Emulation

Given the non-existence of the “iPhonee 13S,” it is hypothesized that counterfeiters are attempting to emulate the genuine iPhone 13 or iPhone 13 Pro, part of the iPhone 13 series launched in September 2021. These models are popular in Kenya for their advanced features, making them prime targets for counterfeiting. Specifications for the iPhone 13, based on GSMArena and Apple’s official site, include:

• Display: 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR, 120Hz refresh rate (ProMotion on Pro models)
• Chipset: A15 Bionic chip with 5-core GPU
• RAM: 4GB (iPhone 13), 6GB (iPhone 13 Pro)
• Storage: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB options
• Cameras: 12MP dual (iPhone 13), 12MP triple (iPhone 13 Pro), 12MP TrueDepth front
• Battery: Up to 19 hours video playback, MagSafe wireless charging up to 15W
• Other features: Ceramic Shield, IP68 dust and water resistance, iOS 15 (upgradable to iOS 18)

The fake version likely uses a similar name and branding to confuse consumers, leveraging the popularity of the real model. The “13S” designation might suggest an updated or special version, though no such model exists officially as of July 2025.

The Issue in Kenya: Prevalence and Risks

The Kenyan market has a long history of counterfeit phone issues, as evidenced by a BBC News article from October 5, 2012, reporting the switch-off of 1.5 million counterfeit handsets, and a 2020 Business Daily report estimating 10.5 million fake phones in circulation. A 2019 report by the Anti-Counterfeit Agency noted phones account for 51.8% of all counterfeited commodities, and recent news, such as a March 7, 2025, report from the Anti-Counterfeit Authority, discusses the launch of the Bleep App to help identify fake products. New regulations effective January 1, 2025, requiring IMEI declarations for imported devices, further highlight the issue.

The risks of buying fake phones include subpar performance, security vulnerabilities (e.g., pre-installed malware), lack of warranty, and safety hazards like battery malfunctions, as noted in various articles and social media posts. Recent posts from April and June 2025 on platforms like Instagram and Facebook emphasize the danger of fake phones, compromising safety and data security. Given Apple’s popularity in Kenya, with models like the iPhone 13 being widely available, it is plausible that counterfeit versions, such as the “iPhonee 13S,” are flooding the market.

Strategies to Avoid Purchasing Fake Phones

To protect consumers, several strategies can be employed to ensure the purchase of genuine Apple devices:

1. Purchasing from Authorized Dealers: The most reliable method is to buy from official Apple stores or authorized resellers. In Kenya, authorized dealers include:

• iStore KE, an Apple Authorized Reseller with a location at Unit 2, Bazaar Plaza, Mezzanine 1 Biashara St, Nairobi, open 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday, closed Sunday, rated 4.6 from 105 ratings.
• Mac & More Solutions, an Apple Authorized Reseller and Service Provider with branches in Nairobi, Kitale, and Kisumu, offering free delivery in Kenya and select East African countries, with up to 24-month limited warranty.
• FoneXpress, an Apple authorized reseller selling a wide range of genuine Apple products, including iPhones, with Apple warranty.
• Apple Center Ke, a one-stop shop for Apple products with expert repair services, located in Nairobi with delivery across East Africa.
• Salute iWorld, an authorized reseller in Nairobi, Kenya, offering Apple products at competitive prices.
• Elite Digital Solutions, an Apple Premium Reseller in Kenya, providing authentic Apple products and expert support. Below is a table summarizing key authorized online stores in Kenya: Store Name Website URL Notes iStore KE https://istore.ke/ Apple Authorized Reseller, Nairobi location, rated 4.6 Mac & More Solutions https://mac-more.co.ke/ Apple Authorized Reseller, branches in Nairobi, Kitale, Kisumu, free delivery FoneXpress https://fonexpress.net/product-category/all-products/apple/ Apple authorized, genuine products with warranty Apple Center Ke https://applecenter.co.ke/ Expert repair services, delivery across East Africa Salute iWorld https://saluteiworld.com/ Authorized reseller, competitive prices Elite Digital Solutions https://www.elitedigital.co.ke/home Apple Premium Reseller, expert support

1. Verifying Device Authenticity: Apple provides official methods to check authenticity, such as entering the IMEI and serial number on their support page. The IMEI can be retrieved by dialing *#06# or checking Settings > General > About, and verified using the [check coverage tool]([invalid url, do not cite]). The serial number can also be verified similarly, ensuring the model, warranty period, and support status match, as detailed in Afritech Media (November 6, 2020).
2. Inspecting Packaging and Device: Genuine iPhones come with high-quality packaging, sealed boxes, and official Apple branding, including authentic accessories. Counterfeit boxes often have misspellings, smaller sizes, or disorganized printing. Check for official logos, warranty information, and build quality, as fake devices may have inferior materials, as noted in The Standard (April 1, 2024). Inspect for signs of wear like scratches or dents, which may indicate a fake, and ensure the phone feels heavy and well-constructed.
3. Check the Software: Ensure the phone runs the latest version of iOS and has access to the App Store. Go to Settings > General > Software Update to check for updates; an older version may indicate a refurbished or pre-owned device. Try downloading an app from the App Store; inability to do so may indicate a fake, as mentioned in The Standard (April 1, 2024). Fake iPhones may run modified operating systems (e.g., skinned Android), lacking official app support, as reported in a Reddit post from February 28, 2023.
4. Use Third-Party Verification Apps: Apps like iUnlocker Check can help verify the IMEI, serial number, and other phone information, providing an additional layer of security, as suggested in The Standard (April 1, 2024).
5. Be Cautious of Low Prices: If the price seems significantly lower than official prices, it’s likely a fake. For example, genuine iPhone 13 models in Kenya are typically priced above KES 70,000 for refurbished units, as seen on Phone Place Kenya and Phones Store Kenya, with new units potentially higher. Articles like Mwakilishi.com (October 5, 2023) warn that unbelievably low prices are a red flag for counterfeit iPhones.

Authorized Purchase Locations and Pricing Insights

Below is a table summarizing key authorized Apple stores in Kenya, based on available data:

Consumers are encouraged to contact these stores directly for availability of specific models like the iPhone 13 and to ensure they are purchasing from authorized sellers. For additional options, Apple’s official website provides information on global authorized dealers, which can be filtered for Kenya. Pricing for the iPhone 13 in Kenya, based on recent listings, starts at around KES 70,000 for refurbished units, with new units potentially higher, as seen on Phone Place Kenya and Mobile Hub.

Conclusion and Recommendations

The “iPhonee 13S” represents a significant counterfeit issue in Kenya, likely emulating the genuine iPhone 13 or iPhone 13 Pro, popular high-end smartphones from 2021. The prevalence of fake phones, as highlighted by recent reports and regulatory efforts, underscores the need for vigilance. By purchasing from authorized dealers, verifying authenticity through official channels, and inspecting packaging and software, consumers can protect themselves from scams. Authorized stores in Kenya, such as iStore KE and Mac & More Solutions, offer safe purchasing options, ensuring access to genuine Apple technology. This analysis is based on extensive research into Apple’s official listings, tech databases, and market trends in Kenya, conducted as of 08:02 PM EAT on July 20, 2025, to provide a comprehensive guide for consumers. Always remember to verify the authenticity of your device before making a purchase to protect yourself from potential scams and support the legitimate market.

AURORA’S QUEST WEDNESDAY 23RD JULY 2025 FULL EPISODE PART 1 AND PART 2 COMBINED

Comprehensive Analysis: The Nothinggg Phone Core 5G and Counterfeit Phones in Kenya

Key Points

• Research suggests the “Nothinggg Phone Core 5G” is likely a counterfeit phone, as it is not listed on official Nothing channels and the misspelling “Nothinggg” indicates potential deception.
• It seems likely that this fake phone is emulating the genuine Nothing Phone (3), a flagship model released in July 2025, popular in the Kenyan market for its unique design and features.
• Reports indicate counterfeit phones are flooding the Kenyan market, with estimates suggesting up to 40% may be fake, posing risks to consumers.
• Consumers can avoid fake phones by buying from authorized dealers, verifying authenticity via IMEI checks, and inspecting packaging for quality.

Why It’s Fake

The “Nothinggg Phone Core 5G” is likely a counterfeit because the brand name “Nothinggg” is misspelled, with an extra ‘g’, which is a common tactic used by counterfeiters to mimic legitimate brands like Nothing, founded by Carl Pei. Official sources, including Nothing’s website and tech databases like GSMArena, show no listing for a “Nothing Phone Core 5G” model, and Nothing’s current lineup includes models like Phone (3), Phone 3a, and Phone 3a Pro, but not “Core 5G.”

The Original Phone

The evidence leans toward the fake “Nothinggg Phone Core 5G” emulating the Nothing Phone (3), released in July 2025. This flagship model features a 6.7-inch LTPO OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipset, and offers up to 12GB RAM and 512GB storage. It’s known for its unique Glyph Interface with LED lights for notifications. In Kenya, it’s priced between KES 75,000 and KES 115,000.

How to Avoid Buying Fake Phones

To protect yourself, buy from authorized dealers like Nothing Kenya, Avechi, or Phone Place Kenya. Verify the IMEI by dialing *#06# and checking on Nothing’s website or using tools like IMEI.info. Inspect packaging for correct branding and be cautious of prices significantly lower than KES 70,000 for the Nothing Phone (3).

Comprehensive Analysis: The Nothinggg Phone Core 5G and Counterfeit Phones in Kenya

This detailed report explores the issue of the “Nothinggg Phone Core 5G,” identified as a counterfeit phone reportedly flooding the Kenyan market, and provides a thorough examination of its origins, potential emulations, and strategies for consumers to avoid purchasing fake devices. It also includes information on authorized purchasing locations in Kenya, supported by extensive research conducted as of 11:29 AM EAT on Sunday, July 20, 2025.

Background and Context

The Kenyan smartphone market has seen a significant rise in counterfeit devices in recent years, with fake phones being particularly prevalent. The “Nothinggg Phone Core 5G” has emerged as a concerning example, with reports suggesting it is currently flooding the market. Recent social media posts, such as an X post from @AfricanHub_ on July 14, 2025, mentioning a man of Arab descent caught selling fake phones in Kenya, and another from @TheNairobiTimez on June 26, 2025, about Gen Z cornering a seller of fake Samsung phones, highlight the ongoing issue. While these posts do not specifically mention the “Nothinggg Phone Core 5G,” they indicate a broader problem of counterfeit phones in Kenya, with an estimated 30% to 40% of mobile phones being fake, according to the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) in February 2024, translating to 18.87 million to 25.16 million fake devices out of 64.67 million total devices by September 2023.

Why the Nothinggg Phone Core 5G is Considered Fake

Extensive searches through Nothing’s official website (nothing.tech) and tech databases like GSMArena reveal no listing for an “Nothinggg Phone Core 5G” model. This absence is significant, as Nothing’s current lineup in July 2025 includes models like Phone (3), Phone 3a, Phone 3a Pro, and earlier models like Phone (2) and Phone (1), but no “Core 5G” is listed. The misspelling “Nothinggg” with three ‘g’s is a common indicator of counterfeiting, likely designed to mimic the legitimate “Nothing” brand while avoiding direct trademark issues. Articles like Business Daily (December 20, 2020) highlight the prevalence of counterfeit phones in Kenya, with reports of fake phones bearing misspelled brand names or non-existent model numbers, supporting the likelihood that “Nothinggg Phone Core 5G” is a counterfeit.

Further research into Nothing’s models shows they have released flagship phones like the Nothing Phone (3), launched on July 1, 2025, with prices starting at $799 for the 256GB model, and mid-range options like Phone 3a at around Rs. 23,843 (approximately KES 37,000). The term “Core” does not appear in their naming convention, suggesting it’s a made-up term by counterfeiters to sound like a special edition or budget variant.

Potential Original Models and Emulation

Given the non-existence of the “Nothinggg Phone Core 5G,” it is hypothesized that counterfeiters are attempting to emulate the genuine Nothing Phone (3), the latest flagship model launched in July 2025. The Nothing Phone (3) is popular in Kenya for its innovative design, including the Glyph Interface with LED lights, and advanced features, making it a prime target for counterfeiting. Specifications, based on TechCrunch and PhoneArena, include:

• Display: 6.7-inch LTPO OLED, 120Hz refresh rate, FHD+ (1080 x 2412)
• Chipset: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1
• RAM: Up to 12GB
• Storage: Up to 512GB, with UFS 3.1
• Cameras: 50MP wide, 50MP ultrawide, 32MP front
• Battery: 4700 mAh, 45W wired charging, 15W wireless charging
• Other features: Android 15, Nothing OS 3.5, IP54 dust and splash resistant

The fake version likely uses a similar name and branding to confuse consumers, leveraging the popularity of the real model. The “Core 5G” designation might suggest a budget or essential version, though no such model exists officially as of July 2025.

The Issue in Kenya: Prevalence and Risks

The Kenyan market has a long history of counterfeit phone issues, as evidenced by a BBC News article from October 5, 2012, reporting the switch-off of 1.5 million counterfeit handsets, and a 2020 Business Daily report estimating 10.5 million fake phones in circulation. A 2019 report by the Anti-Counterfeit Agency noted phones account for 51.8% of all counterfeited commodities, and recent news, such as a March 7, 2025, report from the Anti-Counterfeit Authority, discusses the launch of the Bleep App to help identify fake products. New regulations effective January 1, 2025, requiring IMEI declarations for imported devices, further highlight the issue.

The risks of buying fake phones include subpar performance, security vulnerabilities (e.g., pre-installed malware), lack of warranty, and safety hazards like battery malfunctions, as noted in various articles and social media posts. Recent posts from April and June 2025 on platforms like Instagram and Facebook emphasize the danger of fake phones, compromising safety and data security.

Strategies to Avoid Purchasing Fake Phones

To protect consumers, several strategies can be employed to ensure the purchase of genuine Nothing devices:

1. Purchasing from Authorized Dealers: The most reliable method is to buy from official Nothing stores or authorized resellers. In Kenya, authorized dealers include:

• Nothing Kenya, the official website offering discounts up to 40% and free delivery in Nairobi within an hour.
• Avechi, a popular online electronics shop offering fast, secure delivery.
• Phone Place Kenya, known for same-day delivery and great deals.
• Mobile Hub, offering countrywide delivery with a price of KES 100,000 for Nothing Phone (3).
• Digital Phones Kenya, listing Nothing Phone (3) at KES 114,999 for 12GB/256GB.
• Phones Store Kenya, with a price of KES 53,000, though this may be for a different variant like Phone 3a Pro. Below is a table summarizing key authorized online stores in Kenya: Store Name Website URL Notes Nothing Kenya https://nothing.co.ke/ Official store, free delivery in Nairobi within an hour Avechi https://avechi.co.ke/product-category/nothing-phone/ Fast, secure delivery, popular electronics shop Phone Place Kenya https://www.phoneplacekenya.com/product-category/smartphones/nothing-phones/ Same-day delivery, great deals Mobile Hub https://www.mobilehub.co.ke/nothing-phone-3/ Countrywide delivery, KES 100,000 for Phone (3) Digital Phones Kenya https://digitalphones.co.ke/product/nothing-phone-3/ KES 114,999 for 12GB/256GB Phone (3) Phones Store Kenya https://phonesstorekenya.com/product/nothing-phone-3/ Price KES 53,000, may be for Phone 3a Pro

1. Verifying Device Authenticity: Nothing provides official methods to check authenticity, such as entering the IMEI on their support page or using third-party services like IMEI.info and IMEI24.com. The IMEI can be retrieved by dialing *#06# or checking Settings > About Phone.
2. Inspecting Packaging and Device: Genuine Nothing phones come with high-quality packaging, consistent fonts, and correct branding, including the distinctive Glyph Interface. Counterfeit boxes often have misspellings, smaller sizes, or disorganized printing. Check for official logos, warranty information, and build quality, as fake devices may have inferior materials.
3. Check the Software: Ensure the phone runs the latest version of Android with Nothing OS and has access to the Google Play Store. Go to Settings > About Phone to check for updates; an older version may indicate a refurbished or pre-owned device. Try downloading an app from the Play Store; inability to do so may indicate a fake.
4. Be Cautious of Low Prices: If the price seems significantly lower than official prices, it’s likely a fake. For example, the Nothing Phone (3) in Kenya is typically priced above KES 75,000, with prices varying by storage and condition, as seen on Mobile Hub and Digital Phones Kenya.

Authorized Purchase Locations and Pricing Insights

Consumers are encouraged to contact these stores directly for availability of specific models like the Nothing Phone (3) and to ensure they are purchasing from authorized sellers. For additional options, Nothing’s official website provides information on global authorized dealers, which can be filtered for Kenya. Pricing for the Nothing Phone (3) in Kenya, based on recent listings, starts at around KES 75,000 for 256GB 12GB RAM, with higher variants up to KES 115,000 for 512GB 16GB RAM, as seen on Phones and Electronics Kenya and Digital Phones Kenya.

Conclusion and Recommendations

The “Nothinggg Phone Core 5G” represents a significant counterfeit issue in Kenya, likely emulating the genuine Nothing Phone (3), a popular flagship smartphone. The prevalence of fake phones, as highlighted by recent reports and regulatory efforts, underscores the need for vigilance. By purchasing from authorized dealers, verifying authenticity through official channels, and inspecting packaging, consumers can protect themselves from scams. Authorized stores in Kenya, such as Nothing Kenya and Avechi, offer safe purchasing options, ensuring access to genuine Nothing technology. This analysis is based on extensive research into Nothing’s official listings, tech databases, and market trends in Kenya, conducted as of 11:29 AM EAT on Sunday, July 20, 2025, to provide a comprehensive guide for consumers. Always remember to verify the authenticity of your device before making a purchase to protect yourself from potential scams and support the legitimate market.

AURORA’S QUEST TUESDAY 22ND JULY 2025 FULL EPISODE PART 1 AND PART 2 COMBINED