Vodacom Sold Me a Faulty iPhone 16 – Now I’m Paying for a Contract With No Phone

I am extremely frustrated and disappointed with Vodacom’s service.

I purchased an iPhone 16 from Vodacom two weeks ago. The device was faulty and was handed in to Vodacom Repairs. I have now been without a phone for over 7 days.

During this time, I have spoken to multiple Vodacom staff members, both in-store and over the phone. No one has taken ownership of this issue or provided a solution. Emails have gone unanswered, and I have been passed around with no accountability.

The most frustrating part is that today I personally spoke to the manager of the Vodacom Pavilion store, who promised to call me back. That call never came. This shows a complete lack of respect for customers and zero follow-through on promises made.

Despite all of this, Vodacom still expects me to pay for a contract while I have no phone and no service. This is unacceptable.

I want to make it very clear: I will not accept a repaired phone. I paid for a new device, and I expect either:

• A brand-new replacement iPhone 16 immediately, or • Cancellation of my contract with no penalties, including reversal of charges

Vodacom’s handling of this matter has been shocking and has caused unnecessary stress and inconvenience. I am posting this publicly because private channels have failed completely.

I expect Vodacom to urgently contact me and resolve this matter.