This is Cult of Mac’s exclusive column written by an actual Apple retail store genius. Our genius must remain anonymous, but other than “Who are you, anyway?” ask anything you want about what goes on behind that slick store facade.
Answers will be published first in Cult of Mac’s Magazine on Newsstand. Send your questions to newsATcultofmac.com with “genius” in the subject line.
Gold iPhone 5s units have been in low supply, but our Genius dishes tips on how to swap a space gray 5s for gold one, along with what it’s like to work at the Apple Store and how to get iLife for iOS free, even if you haven’t bought a new iDevice in years.
This article first appeared in Cult of Mac Magazine.
1. I bought an iPhone 5s on launch day, but had to settle with space gray because they didn’t have any gold or silver units. How can I swap my iPhone for a different color?
If for some reason your iPhone hasn’t met your expectations, it has a 30-day return policy as opposed to the 14-day policy for their other products. Bring in your undamaged iPhone with the included accessories for a full refund. Don’t forget about any service changes or fees with your carrier – you’re left to deal with any policies they have regarding your purchase. If you changed your mind on the color or have a device that’s not working properly, you’ve got 30 days to bring it in. Just hope we have the color you want in stock.
2. It seems unfair that Apple is only making iLife for iOS free to new device owners when I’ve bought four iPhones and two iPads already. Is there a workaround for those of us who aren’t upgrading yet to get it for free?
While it may seem unfair it’s safe to say you’ll get them soon. Right now there’s not really a workaround to get the iLife suite of iOS apps for free, but if you come into an Apple store and get your iPad or iPhone replaced, you will be offered the apps free of charge when you set up your new device. So if you already have a legitimate excuse to get your iPhone replaced, here’s another.
3. Do you like working at the Apple Store? Would you recommend it?
When I started at the Apple Store I was excited, like most of the other trainees. We were selected from many other candidates by Apple. I quickly learned how difficult the job can be after training. Customers can be difficult. Workloads can be overwhelming, especially around product and software releases. Don’t even get me started on the holiday madness. It’s just like every job with its highs and lows. People can be jerks sometimes, but it’s nothing to cry about.
I respect the great people I work with at Apple. We all work hard and we work as a team. Our stores provide superior service not found elsewhere. I love my job even though there are some days that leave me wondering about the choice I made. In the end, I work to pay the bills. I couldn’t work long term in retail but working at Apple has been a great journey for me. I recommend it to anyone who has a passion for Apple and is up for the challenge.
