Unlock Hidden Value: Swap that Unused iPhone for a Pair of AirPods!

The Apple Trade-In program offers a device agnostic solution, allowing you to trade in any unused devices for a discount on a new purchase. You are not limited to purchasing only iPhones, as this program is versatile. Here's a breakdown of how it operates.

Step 1: Trade-In Your Old iPhone for Store Credit

The Apple Trade-In program allows you to exchange your iPhone, Watch, iPad, Mac, or Android device (yes, it's true) and receive Apple credit that can be used towards any purchase. If you choose to purchase a new iPhone, you might receive a slightly higher amount of money compared to opting for a gift card.

If you have an old iPhone lying around in a neglected drawer, now is the perfect opportunity to make use of it. The longer you delay in selling or trading it, the lower the amount you will eventually receive. Apple has a tendency to reduce the prices of older devices whenever a new iPhone is released, so it is important to act promptly.

As of October 2023, Apple is currently offering the following maximum trade-in values for old devices:

iPhone 14 Pro Max: $650

iPhone 14 Pro: $570

iPhone 14 Plus: $470

iPhone 13 Pro Max: $580

iPhone 13 Pro: $480

iPhone 13: $370

iPhone 13 mini: $320

iPhone 12 Pro Max: $450

iPhone 12 Pro: $360

iPhone 12: $250

iPhone 12 mini: $200

iPhone SE (3rd gen): $160

The options are endless, as Apple is now providing gift cards in exchange for an iPhone 7 or second-generation iPhone SE. However, to receive a substantial amount for an older model, it is essential that the device is in good working condition. While some money can still be obtained for a damaged device, the amount will be reduced significantly.

To ensure there are no personal data or other restrictions in place, please follow our guide on selling or donating your old iPhone. You have the option of taking your old device to a nearby Apple Store retail location or filling out the form on the Apple Trade-In website. Additionally, you can also recycle older devices, even if they are ineligible or broken, free of charge through the program.

Step 2: Buy AirPods (or Other Apple Gadgets)

After accepting the trade-in value and finalizing the transaction with Apple, you will receive a gift card that can be utilized both in physical stores and online. This presents a wonderful chance to splurge on items that you may not have felt justified in purchasing before, such as a fresh pair of AirPods.

Kris Wouk

You can purchase the second-generation AirPods Pro for $249, which is just $4 higher than the trade-in value for your iPhone 12 when redeemed as a gift card from Apple. Conversely, the third-gen AirPods are available at a price of $179, offering a discount of $6 compared to the trade-in value of a good-condition iPhone 12.

The HomePod mini is an excellent compact smart speaker, particularly suitable for individuals who use Apple Music. You can purchase it for $99, which is only $14 more than the trade-in value of a well-maintained iPhone 8 Plus. Alternatively, if you have a well-maintained iPhone X, you can trade it in and pay just $19 more to acquire a brand-new Apple TV 4K.

Alternatively, Sell or Trade Your iPhone Elsewhere

Apple’s trade-in prices, along with those of other retailers, are commonly known to not be the most competitive. If you choose to sell your old iPhone independently, either through online auction platforms like eBay or locally via Facebook Marketplace or similar platforms, you stand to receive a higher value for it.

While retailers offer convenience by providing immediate payment, often in the form of a gift card (as is the case with Apple), they do take a portion of the device's market value. This eliminates the need to take photographs, negotiate with potential buyers, or go through the hassle of withdrawing funds from services like PayPal. While this may be appealing to some, it is important to consider the associated costs in the long run.

Learn more about the benefits and drawbacks of using Apple Trade-In.