Apple renames refurbished products; now called Apple Certified Reconditioned Products
Thursday, August 12 2004 @ 9:08 AM ET | Article Link
Visit MacPrices for a complete rundown of refurbished Apple product currently available.

Update 5/31/07: Apple now refers to their Special Deals Section at the Apple Outlet.

The Apple Store has redesigned their Special Deals section, which typically carries refurbished and leftover products (Macs, iPods, and other Apple products). These products are now called "Apple Certified Reconditioned Products." Apple has provided some FAQs regarding their reconditioned products:

"Apple Certified Reconditioned Products are pre-owned Apple products that undergo Apple's stringent refurbishment process prior to being offered for sale. These products have been returned under Apple's Return and Refund Policies. While only some units are returned due to technical issues, all units undergo Apple's stringent quality refurbishment process.

(1) Each Apple Certified Reconditioned Product:
is fully tested (including full burn-in testing).
is refurbished with replacement parts for any defective modules identified in testing.
is put through a thorough cleaning process and inspection.
is repackaged (including appropriate manuals, cables, new boxes, etc.).
includes the operating software originally shipped with the unit and the custom software offered with that system. See each products "Learn More" for more details.
is given a new refurbished part number and serial number.
is placed into a Final QA inspection prior to being added to sellable refurbished stock.
Refurbishment procedures follow the same basic technical guidelines as Apple's Finished Goods testing procedures.

(2) What should I expect when I purchase an Apple Certified Reconditioned Product?
- Substantial savings
- A fully functional unit with complete documentation
- The assurance that the unit meets Apple's premiere quality standards, and that its defective components have been replaced by genuine Apple components

(3) Can I purchase the AppleCare Protection Plan for my Apple Certified Reconditioned Product?
All Apple Certified Reconditioned Products are covered by Apple's One-Year Limited Warranty. For extended coverage, you have the option of purchasing the AppleCare Protection Plan with your Apple Certified Reconditioned Product. The AppleCare Protection Plan extends the complimentary coverage on your Apple Certified Reconditioned Product to up to three years of world-class support."

Apple has also provided links to leftover models, rebates, and promotions on this page. For a list of Apple Certified Reconditioned PowerBooks and iBooks available each day at The Apple Store, visit our Clearance Laptops Price Tracker. Visit our Clearance Desktops Price Tracker for Power Macs, eMacs, and iMacs.