That won't be a problem. I have had 3 iphones replaced by O2 because of the dead strip problem. None of the iphones were ever activated. In fact, I didn't even activate them when I took them back. They were all showing the "Slide for emergency screen".

You may need the receipt. They will just fill out a form on their computer and give you a receipt. Few days later you will get a phone call asking you to pick up your new iphone !

Pretty sure I don't have the receipt anymore =( I guess I can bring a bank statement.

Thanks very much for your help navco, it's been invaluable! I'll definitely go to o2 tomorrow.

Rep added!