Every year, the rising costs of smartphones, laptops, tablets, and wearables deter more and more consumers away from upgrading to the latest technology. Mobile users are holding onto their devices longer than ever before, leaving some retailers struggling to make sales quotas and build relationships with new customers.

While trading-in an older device is always a great option for consumers who are looking to upgrade without breaking the bank, the total cost of ownership still may be too high even with a trade-in credit applied. Luckily, many retailers today offer refurbished and certified pre-owned devices that can save consumers hundreds of dollars. A new 256GB iPhone X, for example, costs $1,049.00 while a refurbished model costs $809.00 from Apple. A new 128GB Samsung Galaxy Note9 costs $999.99 while a refurbished model costs $649.99 from BestBuy.

Unfortunately, many consumers are still apprehensive to buy a refurbished smartphone because they are concerned about the quality and functionality of the used device. This is why it’s so important to know the difference between a non-certified pre-owned device and a certified pre-owned device.

Non-certified pre-owned devices may have been tested and verified to function properly yet are not covered under manufacturer warranties and may not include original accessories. A certified pre-owned device, however, has been strictly inspected for defects and has been verified to be factory-quality condition. Best of all, certified pre-owned devices come with warranties for peace of mind.

Apple’s Certified Refurbished products, for example, undergo a rigorous refurbishment process that includes full testing in order to meet the same functional standards as brand new Apple products. Refurbished iOS devices come with a new battery, a new outer shell, genuine Apple replacement parts that have been thoroughly cleaned and inspected, and accessories such as charging cables and headphones. Refurbished devices from Apple are not only “like new,” they also come with a one-year limited warranty and are discounted up to 15%.

When consumers trade-in a device through our Phobio platform, they receive a monetary value based on the condition of their device along with a detailed description and photo evidence explaining our assessment. Consumers then have the option to accept or reject our offer. If they accept our offer, they will receive a gift card that can be used to lower the cost of a new device of their choice. If they reject our offer, we’ll send their devices back – no strings attached.

As an omni-channel device buyback solution, the Phobio platform gives customers the flexibility to start their transaction in one channel and complete it in another. A customer can begin their trade in-store, then go back home to back up their photos, music, and contacts, finish the trade-in process online, then drop off their device in a mailbox. Customers can also begin a trade-in online and then drop off their device in-person at their local retail store.

Here at Phobio, we believe in making the trade-in experience as simple as possible so that customers can upgrade to the latest technology hassle-free and cost-effectively. If you’re interested in learning more about our trade-in solution or certified pre-owned devices, contact us today!