[jjfish]

Since the non-cellular version doesn't have an IMEI, can Apple block the watch using the serial number if someone reported EB for a watch directly from Apple.com or Amazon?

[mothered]

Since the non-cellular version doesn't have an IMEI, can Apple block the watch using the serial number

No.

If anything, the activity on the device can be tracked using Its serial number (similar to how Oculus operates), but not block/blacklist It. To do that, It must be cellular-enabled.

[jjfish]

What would be the purpose of creating a system that is able to track activity without having the ability to block the device if a vendor (including themselves) reports it stolen? Seems odd. Will they do anything to an Apple account that will register the device?

[mothered]

What would be the purpose of creating a system that is able to track activity without having the ability to block the device

It's pretty simple.

Given you've refunded a given device using (for example) the DNA, EB/missing Item method or otherwise, you're not supposed to have It In your possession. Tracking the activity will Identify that you've falsified the claim, hence they'll rebill your account or perhaps take further action.

[BetterThings2]

What would be the purpose of creating a system that is able to track activity without having the ability to block the device

It's pretty simple.

Given you've refunded a given device using (for example) the DNA, EB/missing Item method or otherwise, you're not supposed to have It In your possession. Tracking the activity will Identify that you've falsified the claim, hence they'll rebill your account or perhaps take further action.

Very true. That's why I like to wait until after the refund clears the account to turn on electronics like smart watches. Way less chance of them getting wise to you.

[mothered]

What would be the purpose of creating a system that is able to track activity without having the ability to block the device

It's pretty simple.

Given you've refunded a given device using (for example) the DNA, EB/missing Item method or otherwise, you're not supposed to have It In your possession. Tracking the activity will Identify that you've falsified the claim, hence they'll rebill your account or perhaps take further action.

Very true.  That's why I like to wait until after the refund clears the account to turn on electronics like smart watches.  Way less chance of them getting wise to you.

Absolutely spot on.