The Oppo A138: A Fake Phone Flooding the Kenyan Market

The Kenyan smartphone market, driven by high demand for affordable and feature-rich devices, has become a breeding ground for counterfeit products. Among these, the so-called “Oppo A138” has surfaced as a prevalent fake phone. This article explains why the Oppo A138 is a counterfeit device, identifies the original Oppo model it attempts to emulate, and provides practical guidance for Kenyan consumers to avoid purchasing fake phones. Additionally, we’ll include links to trusted retailers where authentic Oppo smartphones can be purchased.

Why the Oppo A138 Is a Fake Phone

The Oppo A138 does not exist in Oppo’s official product lineup, a clear indication of its counterfeit nature. Oppo, a globally recognized brand known for innovative smartphones, has no record of an A138 model. Below are key reasons confirming its fake status:

1. Non-Existent in Oppo’s Official Catalog:
   Oppo’s official website (www.oppo.com) and authorized retailers in Kenya, such as Phone Place Kenya and Jumia, do not list the A138 among their A-series models, which include devices like the A38, A58, A78, and A5. Counterfeiters often create fictitious model names that sound plausible to deceive buyers.
2. Substandard Build and Specifications:
   Fake Oppo A138 phones typically feature low-quality materials, such as cheap plastic bodies, low-resolution displays, and weak processors. These devices may mimic the aesthetic of genuine Oppo phones but fall short in performance, durability, and user experience, often lagging or crashing during basic tasks.
3. Inauthentic Software and Security Risks:
   Genuine Oppo phones run on ColorOS, Oppo’s Android-based operating system, offering a smooth and secure interface. Fake A138 devices often use generic or outdated Android versions, sometimes laced with malware or intrusive ads, posing significant security risks to users.
4. Proliferation in Kenya’s Market:
   Kenya’s smartphone market is vulnerable to counterfeit devices due to its high demand for affordable phones. Reports suggest that fake phones, including those branded as Oppo, are widely distributed through unregulated channels like street vendors and unverified online sellers, exploiting Oppo’s popularity in the region.

The Original Phone the Oppo A138 Is Trying to Emulate

The fake Oppo A138 appears to be an imitation of the Oppo A38, a legitimate entry-level smartphone launched in September 2023 as part of Oppo’s budget-friendly A-series. The A38 offers reliable performance and essential features, making it a popular choice in Kenya. Counterfeiters likely chose a model name close to the A38 to confuse consumers. Below are the key specifications of the authentic Oppo A38 for reference:

• Display: 6.56-inch IPS LCD, HD+ resolution (720 x 1612 pixels), 90Hz refresh rate, 720 nits peak brightness
• Processor: MediaTek Helio G85 (12 nm), Octa-core
• RAM/Storage: 4GB/128GB or 6GB/128GB, expandable via microSDXC (up to 1TB)
• Camera: Dual rear setup (50MP main with f/1.8 + 2MP depth), 5MP front camera
• Battery: 5000mAh with 33W SuperVOOC fast charging
• OS: Android 13 with ColorOS 13.1
• Other Features: IP54 dust and splash resistance, side-mounted fingerprint sensor, dual SIM, 3.5mm audio jack
• Price in Kenya: Approximately KSh 18,500 (2023 retail price)

The fake A138 may mimic the A38’s design, such as its dual camera module or slim profile, but it typically features inferior components, including a lower-resolution display, slower processor, and subpar cameras. Additionally, counterfeit devices may falsely advertise features like 5G connectivity, which the A38 does not support, to attract buyers.

Why the Fake Oppo A138 Is Flooding the Kenyan Market

Several factors contribute to the widespread circulation of fake Oppo A138 phones in Kenya:

1. Oppo’s Popularity in Kenya:
   Oppo is a trusted brand in Kenya, known for stylish designs, excellent cameras, and affordable pricing. Counterfeiters capitalize on this reputation by producing fake models like the A138, targeting consumers seeking Oppo’s quality at lower prices.
2. Demand for Budget Smartphones:
   Kenya’s market is highly price-sensitive, with many consumers seeking affordable smartphones. Fake A138 phones are sold at significantly lower prices than genuine Oppo models, making them appealing to budget-conscious buyers.
3. Unregulated Distribution Channels:
   Counterfeit phones are often sold through street vendors, unofficial retailers, or unverified online marketplaces. These channels lack proper documentation, warranties, or accountability, enabling the spread of fake devices.
4. Consumer Unawareness:
   Many buyers lack the knowledge to verify a phone’s authenticity, especially when counterfeiters use convincing packaging and branding. This vulnerability allows fake phones to thrive in the market.

How to Avoid Buying Fake Phones in Kenya

To protect yourself from purchasing a counterfeit Oppo A138 or other fake smartphones, follow these practical steps:

1. Verify the IMEI Number:
   Every smartphone has a unique 15-digit International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number. To check authenticity:

• Dial *#06# on the phone to display the IMEI.
• Text the IMEI to 1555, a service provided by the Communications Authority of Kenya, to confirm the phone’s legitimacy.
• Visit Oppo’s Device Authentication site (www.oppo.com) and enter the IMEI to verify if the device is genuine.
• Ensure the IMEI matches the number on the box and receipt.

1. Purchase from Authorized Retailers:
   Buy Oppo phones only from reputable stores or official Oppo outlets. Avoid street vendors or unverified online sellers offering deals that seem too good to be true. Trusted retailers provide warranties and authentic products. See the list of stores below.
2. Check Specifications and Software:
   Research the phone’s specifications on Oppo’s official website (www.oppo.com) before purchasing. Ensure the device runs ColorOS (e.g., ColorOS 13.1 for the A38) and matches the listed specs, such as the 50MP camera or Helio G85 processor. Be cautious of phones with generic Android interfaces or mismatched features.
3. Inspect Build Quality:
   Genuine Oppo phones, even budget models like the A38, feature premium designs with high-quality materials. Look for signs of a fake, such as:

• Poorly aligned or printed logos
• Low-resolution or blurry displays
• Cheap plastic builds
• Misspelled text on packaging or in the software

1. Test Hardware and Camera:
   Oppo is renowned for its camera quality. Test the phone’s camera by taking photos or videos; blurry or low-quality results indicate a fake. Use the “Engineer Mode” by dialing *#800# to check hardware components like the battery and connectivity, as fake phones often have inferior parts.
2. Demand a Warranty and Receipt:
   Authentic Oppo phones come with a manufacturer’s warranty (typically one year) and a proper receipt. Verify the warranty card’s authenticity by comparing it to Oppo’s official format and contact Oppo’s customer support if needed.
3. Be Skeptical of Unrealistic Prices:
   If an “Oppo A138” is priced significantly lower than the A38 (e.g., KSh 10,000 vs. KSh 18,500), it’s likely a fake. Compare prices with trusted retailers to ensure fairness.

Where to Buy the Original Oppo A38 in Kenya

To ensure you’re purchasing an authentic Oppo A38 or other genuine Oppo phones, shop at these trusted retailers:

1. Jumia Kenya (www.jumia.co.ke):
   Jumia offers a wide range of Oppo smartphones, including the A38, A78, and Reno series, with warranties and cash-on-delivery options.
2. Phone Place Kenya (www.phoneplacekenya.com):
   Phone Place Kenya stocks genuine Oppo phones, such as the A38, with fast delivery (1–2 hours in Nairobi, 24 hours countrywide) and warranties. The Oppo A38 is priced around KSh 18,500.
3. Avechi Kenya (avechi.co.ke):
   Avechi is a reliable online electronics shop offering authentic Oppo models like the A38, A78, and Reno 8T, with secure payments and discounts.
4. PigiaMe (www.pigiame.co.ke):
   PigiaMe is a classifieds platform where you can find genuine Oppo phones from trusted sellers. Verify seller credibility and contact details before purchasing.
5. Phones Store Kenya (phonesstorekenya.com):
   Phones Store Kenya provides genuine Oppo devices, including the A38, with competitive prices and fast delivery. The A38 is available for approximately KSh 18,500.
6. Gadgets Leo (gadgetsleo.com):
   Gadgets Leo offers authentic Oppo phones, such as the A38 and A5, with online ordering and same-day delivery in Nairobi.
7. Oppo Official Website (www.oppo.com):
   Visit Oppo’s official website for a list of authorized dealers in Kenya or to explore the latest models directly.

Before purchasing, confirm the phone model (e.g., Oppo A38, not A138) and verify its authenticity using the IMEI check and other methods outlined above.

Conclusion

The Oppo A138 is a counterfeit smartphone that does not exist in Oppo’s official lineup, likely designed to mimic the legitimate Oppo A38, a popular budget-friendly device in Kenya. Its presence in the Kenyan market exploits Oppo’s strong reputation and the demand for affordable smartphones, but these fakes deliver poor performance, security vulnerabilities, and no official support. To avoid such scams, consumers should verify the IMEI, purchase from trusted retailers like Jumia, Phone Place Kenya, or Avechi, and inspect the device for signs of authenticity. By staying vigilant and informed, you can confidently invest in genuine Oppo smartphones that offer the quality, innovation, and reliability the brand is known for.

SARABI MAISHA MAGIC PLUS SEASON 1 EPISODE 69