Nigeria’s social and digital media space is abuzz with reactions following the unveiling of an iPhone XR allegedly repackaged and sold as an iPhone 17 Pro Max.
![](https://thenigerialawyer.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/idrinstitute.png")
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that while some view the practice as a cautionary lesson about consumer trust, others have condemned it outright as deception and exploitation.
The controversy began when entrepreneur Blord showcased a device he claimed was an iPhone XR transformed into an iPhone 17 Pro Max, priced at ₦450,000 (plus delivery).
According to reports, the internals of the device remain those of the older XR model, but its casing, screen, battery, and other visible components have been replaced or upgraded to mimic the latest iPhone design.
Critics have described the practice as “using an old engine with a new body.”
In response, social media influencer VeryDarkMan (VDM) claimed to have traced the operation to China.
He released a video showing what he said was evidence of a factory where the so-called “clones” are refurbished, resealed, and sold to unsuspecting buyers.
Blord is said to market the refurbished devices for ₦450,000, while VDM alleged that the same version is shipped directly from China for about ₦280,000 (plus delivery) — a price difference of ₦170,000.
Many social media users have described the saga as a reflection of Nigeria’s growing obsession with social status and material display over authenticity.
A social media user identified as Real Chuno on X (formerly Twitter) called on Apple to take decisive action against those involved.
“Apple needs to start arresting those converting iPhone XR to iPhone 17 Pro Max and deceiving the public into buying it — that’s pure criminality.
Turning an iPhone XR into a fake iPhone 17 Pro Max and selling it? That’s not hustle, that’s a crime. Apple needs to step in for real,” he wrote.
Another user, Brian David, expressed disbelief over the trend, questioning the logic behind such purchases.
“I genuinely want to understand the rationale behind selling and buying an iPhone XR that has been upgraded to look like a 17 Pro Max,” he said.
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