iPhone 6 prototype hits $100,000 on eBay

A prototype iPhone 6 that was sent to a Verizon customer as an upgrade is set to fetch more than $100,000 on eBay after the recipient decided to sell it.

Seller kimberlyk1018 ordered the iPhone 6 as an upgrade direct from the Verizon network in the US, but didn't realise they would be receiving a developer device.

When the device arrived, the owner discovered it was running different software to the standard iPhone 6. It was also without the standard FCC branding on the back and featured a red charging port, which is always used on prototypes.

The listing reads: "Apple does NOT let these phones out of their possession yet I was accidentally sent one upon renewing my contract. As you can see from the photos, iOS8 has not been placed on this device, rather it is in the true developer mode. There are no FCC markings on the rear of the device or a model number.

"This is the real deal!!! The lightening port is red which is a sure sign of a prototype. This device is being sold as is. I cannot guarantee that it will make calls or that the camera will work. However, I can guarantee you that the device is a 64gb iPhone 6 which was sent to me from Verizon."

Apple hasn't made any attempt to get the device back as yet, but it's likely the company will try and take possession of the iPhone, claiming it as stolen property.

In 2010, two men sold what they claimed was a prototype of the iPhone 4 to Gizmodo for 3,200. The men were charged with selling a stolen device, although both avoided prison.

Steve Jobs also tried to sue Gizmodo, but the website managed to also avoid any conviction.

Clare Hopping
Freelance writer

Clare is the founder of Blue Cactus Digital, a digital marketing company that helps ethical and sustainability-focused businesses grow their customer base.

Prior to becoming a marketer, Clare was a journalist, working at a range of mobile device-focused outlets including Know Your Mobile before moving into freelance life.

As a freelance writer, she drew on her expertise in mobility to write features and guides for ITPro, as well as regularly writing news stories on a wide range of topics.