In recent weeks, social media, particularly TikTok, has been abuzz with claims that Apple’s premium smartwatch, the Apple Watch Ultra, conceals a secret camera within its Digital Crown. These allegations have sparked a wave of misinformation, with counterfeiters leveraging these false claims to mislead consumers into buying fraudulent versions of the renowned device.
The Deception Unveiled
The counterfeit Apple Watch Ultra models closely imitate the design and functionality of the authentic product but incorporate deceptive features, including the purported hidden camera in the Digital Crown. Additionally, these counterfeit watches often feature a Google Play Store icon, revealing an Android operating system rather than Apple’s proprietary watchOS.
Identifying Counterfeit Watches
Not all fake Apple Watch Ultras are equipped with a hidden camera, but there are reliable indicators of counterfeits. The most definitive sign of a fake is the absence of watchOS. A significant price drop for a new “Apple Watch Ultra” is another red flag. Consumers should be wary of deals that seem too good to be true.
Operating System Discrepancies
Many counterfeit models advertised online, particularly on Chinese e-commerce sites, run on outdated Android v8.1 from 2017. This obsolete operating system prominently displays the Google Play Store icon, further distinguishing these replicas from genuine Apple devices. Reports suggest that some of these counterfeit watches have been purchased through resellers on platforms like Amazon or AliExpress, complicating the purchasing process for unsuspecting buyers.
Guidance for Authentic Purchases
To safeguard against these scams, consumers are strongly advised to purchase the Apple Watch Ultra directly from Apple’s official website or from an authorized reseller. For those using Amazon, it is best to buy directly from Amazon or an authorized Apple reseller listed on the platform. This approach ensures the acquisition of genuine products and helps avoid falling victim to counterfeit schemes.
