Apple does not lose blacklisted phones. However, it’s important to clarify that Apple does not have the authority to blacklist phones themselves. The power to blacklist a phone lies with the carriers, not Apple. Let me explain how this works.
When you purchase a phone from a carrier, it is typically locked to that carrier’s network. This means that the phone will only work with that specific carrier’s SIM card. If the phone is reported stolen while in transit, the carrier has the ability to blacklist it.
Blacklisting a phone essentially renders it useless on that carrier’s network. The phone’s unique identification number, known as the IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity), is added to a shared database that all carriers have access to.
Once a phone is blacklisted, it will not be able to connect to any carrier’s network in the country where it was blacklisted. This prevents thieves from using stolen phones to make calls, send messages, or access mobile data.
Now, let’s focus on Apple’s role in this process. Apple manufactures the iPhones, but they do not have control over the carrier network. They do not have the ability to blacklist phones themselves. It is solely up to the carriers to decide whether to blacklist a reported stolen phone or not.
If a phone is blacklisted by a carrier, Apple will not be involved in the process beyond complying with the carrier’s decision. Apple will not actively track or search for blacklisted phones, nor will they take any action to recover them. It is the responsibility of the carrier and the appropriate authorities to handle any theft or loss-related issues.
Apple does not lose blacklisted phones because they do not have the power to blacklist phones themselves. The carriers are the ones who can blacklist a phone if it is reported stolen in transit. Apple’s role is limited to manufacturing the iPhones and ensuring they comply with carrier networks.