How to Verify a Samsung Grand 2 as Original: 8 Steps to Follow

Buying a second-hand or refurbished phone can be tricky, especially when the seller is unknown. The Samsung Grand 2 is a popular model, but there's a high risk of counterfeiting. Ensuring the phone is genuine is crucial for your peace of mind and the device's long-term usability. Follow these eight steps to check if your Samsung Grand 2 is original or not.

1. Check the IMEI Number

IMEI Number Verification

To check the IMEI number:

Dial 06 on the phone to display the IMEI number. Verify the IMEI number on the Samsung official website or through a service like GSMArena to ensure it matches the specifications of the Grand 2.

2. Physical Inspection

Build Quality and Branding

Inspect the following aspects:

Build Quality: Look for any signs of poor construction, such as uneven seams, loose parts, or low-quality materials. Logos and Branding: Ensure the Samsung logo and other branding are clear and properly positioned. Screen and Display: Check for any dead pixels or color inconsistencies on the display.

3. Software Check

User Interface and Apps

Check the following:

Software Version: Go to Settings > About Phone and check for the software version. An original Samsung phone should have a Samsung-specific user interface. Samsung Apps: Verify if essential Samsung apps like Samsung Health or Samsung Members are present. Missing these apps might indicate a counterfeit device.

4. Warranty and Support

Warranty Validation

Visit the Samsung support website and enter the IMEI number to check if the phone is registered and under warranty.

5. Performance Assessment

Performance Testing

Test the phone's performance:

Speed and Functionality: If the phone is slow or has glitches, it may be a sign of a counterfeit or low-quality imitation.

6. Purchase Location and Price

Purchase Location

If the phone was purchased from an unofficial source or a street vendor at a significantly lower price, it may be more likely to be a counterfeit.

7. ODIN Mode - Detailed Phone Information

ODIN Mode

To activate ODIN Mode:

Press and hold the Volume Up and Home buttons simultaneously while the device is connected to a computer. This step will automatically pop up a blue screen in the middle of the screen with detailed phone information in the top-left corner.

8. Secret Diagnostic Mode -IMEI Check

Secret Diagnostic Mode

To access the IMEI Check code:

Go to the dialer, enter **32489#, and press Call. The phone will automatically go into its secret diagnostic mode and display the information the code intends to show you.

By following these steps, you can better determine if the Samsung Grand 2 is genuine or a counterfeit. Remember, a genuine phone will provide consistent performance and support, making it the safer and more reliable choice for your needs.