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As the year begins, you might consider getting a new Apple device, either for yourself or as a generous gift. This guide covers the essentials of trading in your old iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, or Mac, ensuring it finds a new home once you're ready to part ways. Discover all you need to know for a seamless transition and make room for your latest Apple addition.
Apple facilitates both online and in-store trade-ins, available at over 270 US retail locations. Depending on your current iPhone's age, Apple credits up to $650 for a new device. The trade-in scope extends to iPads, Macs, and Apple Watches. As of 2023, the earliest acceptable iPhone is the 2016-released iPhone 7. Series 4 Apple Watches from 2018 fetch up to $60. For older iPads and Macs, specific trade-in values aren't listed online, requiring you to initiate the process for a quote.
Apple accepts Android phones too, but the trade-in value varies; for instance, a Samsung Galaxy S22 fetches less than a same-year iPhone. The company offers a detailed trade-in value database on its website. Your device's compensation hinges on its age and condition, particularly for iPhones.
A well-maintained, unblemished iPhone commands a higher price than one with a cracked screen. Whether trading with Apple or services like Back Market, expect inquiries about device condition, functionality, and display state.
Beyond Apple, other players like Amazon, Best Buy, and Target in the US run their own trade-in programs. Specialized platforms like SellYourMac or broader ones like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace are additional options. I can even sell my iPad at Back Market and get cash in return.
Typically, Apple provides superior trade-in values, offering up to $580 for a used iPad Pro compared to Best Buy's $425. A key consideration is that Apple gives the best values when trading in for a new iPhone; for instance, trading in an iPhone 12 can yield $250 towards iPhone 15, 15 Pro, or 15 Pro Max, but only $225 with an Apple Gift Card. Opting for online trade-in includes a shipping kit. Keep an eye on Apple's website for updated trade-in values.
After selecting the destination for exchanging your Apple device, take some necessary steps before parting with it. This part of the guide is mainly focused on the iPhone, but the following actions are generally applicable to all significant devices from the company.
For a swift start with your new device, having a recent iCloud backup is crucial. Apple's iCloud service automatically backs up your iPhone daily when it's connected to power, locked, and on Wi-Fi. Opt for dual backups – one on iCloud and one on your PC.
Open iCloud, connect to Wi-Fi, access "Settings," choose iCloud, and run an immediate backup. Don't disconnect until confirmed. Enable daily backups for automated convenience. For a computer backup, connect, trust the device, and back up under "Finder" or "My PC." Encrypt sensitive data like health stats. In both cases, click "Back-up Now" for seamless data transfer. This ensures a swift and secure transition to your new device.
If your iPhone is your sole source for two-factor authentication (2FA) codes, it's crucial to set up your new phone before trading in the old one. Password managers like 1Password, offering mobile and desktop apps, support 2FA.
Google Authenticator is limited to Android and iOS, requiring account transfer between devices. Ensure backup codes for all 2FA accounts are accessible, or risk being locked out of accounts with no means of recovery when trading in your old phone.
Before trading in your iPhone paired with an Apple Watch, unpair them to avoid issues. In the Apple Watch app, select My Watch, tap All Watches, click the info button, and choose Unpair Apple Watch. Confirm and enter Apple ID credentials to deactivate Activation Lock, ensuring a smooth transition for your devices.
Performing a factory reset on your iPhone, which includes erasing it, automatically deactivates Find My and logs you out of iCloud, iTunes, and the App Store. Despite this, there have been rare reports of devices still being linked to Apple services post-reset.
For secure trading, it's advisable to manually log out of all accounts. Apple even recommends users manually sign out: Launch Settings, tap your name, go to account settings, tap Sign Out, enter Apple ID password, then tap Turn Off.
Your App Store purchase history catalogs every app you've downloaded, with the most popular featured in the Top Free Apps section. While some apps may be essential but infrequently used, restoring iCloud or computer backups prompts automatic downloading and preserves the Home Screen layout. Opting for a fresh iPhone setup? Capture Home Screen screenshots for Google Drive or AirDrop. These images will aid in reacquiring all apps after the setup.
With all other tasks completed, now it's time to reset your iPhone or iPad. Follow these steps:
The reset takes a few minutes at most. Beyond a potential cleanup, your old iPhone is now prepared for trade-in.
After successfully parting with or selling your Apple device, ensure it vanishes from your device list. On your iPhone or iPad, learn to remove it from your Apple account. Alternatively, use a web browser and follow these steps:
Final Words:
For maximum value, ensure your phone is in excellent condition—no cracks, significant dents, or scratches. Functionality is key; it should turn on, hold a charge, etc. Even damaged phones have value; if it doesn't turn on, you can still earn. Don't bother repairing a cracked screen before selling, but minor damage may fetch a good price if sold independently. Some buyers may overlook superficial screen damage for a fair deal.
