Vodafone hopes its new business tool will encourage more people to recycle their old smartphones and switch to newer phones and longer contracts. The phone upcycling and recycling market has grown significantly in recent years, due to both environmental concerns and the rising cost of flagship devices. Many customers want to save money by partially trading in their old devices, while others see used devices as a cost-effective way to acquire new technology. For carriers and manufacturers, trade-in programs are an increasingly important way to boost sales, especially at a time when users are holding onto their phones longer.
Vodafone exchange
However, Vodafone claims that 88% of Britons have never traded in a device and 4,2 million throw it straight away. This trend is not only bad for the environment, but means that literally £6,9m in potential savings has been wasted. One challenge is that many consumers significantly undervalue their older phones. For example, 28% think an iPhone X is worth less than $100, but the current market value is $220. Others are concerned about security and privacy, while quotes received in the past also lack trust. . Vodafone's tool, accessible through the MyVodafone app, hopes to streamline the process and alleviate these concerns. The tool assesses device eligibility in minutes and provides a guaranteed trade-in price that is applied to the customer's first bill. Non-Vodafone customers can also participate, as the company seeks to attract new subscribers to its network. “With our new market-leading trading tool, we are correcting what previously deterred people from trading,” said Max Taylor, Vodafone UK Director of Consumer Affairs. “We've made the process quick and easy and we guarantee the savings up front. At a time when taking care of your money is more important than ever, we can help customers always have the latest technology in their hands and save money. "The system is currently only open for iPhone X, XS, XR and 8 lines, but Vodafone says more devices will be added in the future.