Your old iPhone and Android could be worth a fortune

SELLING dust-gathering iPhone and Android devices could bag you a small fortune.

Research by Virgin Media 02 has revealed that Brits have up to 15 million unused mobile phones and just under 3 million tablets dotted around their homes.

2

Many believe that there is little use in trying to salvage a pittance for damaged devices or gadgets.

But increasingly there are schemes which are more than happy to provide hard cash for ageing devices, as they are packed full of valuable metals, microchips and more which can be repurposed for newer gadgets.

With that in mind, there are a number of ways you can make a quick buck offloading your unwanted devices.

Mobile phone recycling schemes

Mobile phone recycling schemes are a popular route for many – as you will be offered cash depending on the condition and model of your former phone.

And some pay more than others.

For example, the 128GB iPhone 12 could net you as much as £210 via O2 Recycle if it is in ‘excellent’ condition.

However, competing phone recycling scheme Envirofone will cough up £260 for the same thing.

Naturally, if your device’s condition falls foul of those standards, the price proposed will drop.

For that reason, it is recommended that you do some price comparison across a number of recycling schemes, including EE, Mazuma Mobile, WeBuyAnyPhone and CeX to achieve the highest sell.

Trade-in schemes

For those on the hunt for a fresh smartphone, trading in your old mobile is a tried and tested way to ensure you pay less.

Apple, for example, offers a trade-in service which promises to give you between £30 and £630 towards a new iPhone or other Apple device.

Elsewhere, Samsung Trade-In will give you money towards a new device but promises an ‘instant’ discount, meaning you don’t have to wait to get credit.

What will happen when I trade in or recycle my unwanted device

Once you’ve provided the relevant information, you’ll likely be sent a postage label by the phone company or recycling firm.

Just be sure to stick that on the package containing your phone or gadget.

Before posting your device, be sure to wipe any important data before a factory reset.

The company will more than likely notify you when your device arrives.

Following a thorough inspection, a final price will be quoted before the money is sent to your account.

2