Importing a Phone to the US Adds Carrier, Software and Warranty Hurdles

Models such as Xiaomi's Mix Fold, Honor's Magic series and OPPO's Find X phones offer designs and features that are not generally seen in American stores, Engadget noted. Importing such devices has become easier in recent years because most smartphones are now built to work on cellular bands used globally, but some models still do not work with the bands a particular US carrier uses. Engadget advises buyers to check frequency-band compatibility first, since choosing the wrong version can leave a phone stuck on LTE with no 5G support.

Carrier-specific features are a second obstacle. Wi-Fi calling, VoLTE and visual voicemail usually require certification for each device, so an imported phone may work on a carrier's 5G network yet still be unable to use all of those functions in the US. Network requirements can also change over time, meaning a model that works today may run into problems later. Engadget suggests checking forums such as Reddit for reports from people who already bought the model in question.

Software updates present further complications. The rollout of Android updates may be tied to carriers or regions, and some Chinese phones are not compatible with Google Play Services, which Engadget describes as a core part of the Android experience most users expect. Updates may have to be installed manually, and the software may include Chinese apps and services that are irrelevant or unreadable to the buyer.

Warranty service in the US is another weak point. Some of these brands have no official representation in the country, which also means no customer support. Problems such as a dead battery or a cracked screen may require taking the phone to a third-party repair shop that has no authorization from the manufacturer.

For buyers willing to accept those hassles, Engadget says importing can open access to hardware unavailable in the US, including three-screen foldables, flagships with what the publication describes as DSLR-quality cameras, and devices with large batteries. One example it cites is the Xiaomi 18 Fold, a foldable that resembles the iPhone Duo but is said to have a bigger battery, better cameras and a lower price, equivalent to about $1,640 at the time of writing. It has to be bought abroad to be used in the US.

Importing also often allows buyers to obtain a phone before its official US launch. Many international models still support two physical SIM cards, a feature most phones sold in the US have dropped in favor of eSIM. Engadget's conclusion is that the experience can be rewarding for those who do not mind the drawbacks, but that buyers who need official support nearby and full network functionality are better served by a phone that is officially supported in the US.