If you’re one of the millions of people who own an iPhone, chances are you’ve experienced the frustration of dealing with a broken device at some point. Maybe the screen is cracked, the battery is dying, or the phone just won’t turn on. Whatever the reason, a broken iPhone can be a major hassle. But did you know that Apple might be willing to buy it back from you, even in its broken state? In this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of Apple’s iPhone trade-in program, and discuss whether it’s worth selling your broken iPhone to the tech giant.
Apple’s iPhone Trade-In Program: An Overview
Apple’s iPhone trade-in program, also known as the Apple GiveBack program, allows customers to trade in their eligible iPhone devices for a gift card or credit towards the purchase of a new iPhone. The program is designed to encourage customers to upgrade to newer, more environmentally friendly devices, while also promoting the responsible recycling of electronic waste.
To participate in the program, customers simply need to visit Apple’s website, select their device, and answer a few questions about its condition. Apple will then provide a quote for the trade-in value of the device, which can be redeemed in the form of an Apple Gift Card or applied as credit towards the purchase of a new iPhone.
What Devices Are Eligible for Trade-In?
Apple’s iPhone trade-in program accepts a wide range of iPhone devices, including:
- iPhone 6 and later models
- iPhone SE
- iPhone SE 2
- iPhone X and later models
It’s worth noting that not all devices are eligible for trade-in, and the condition of the device plays a major role in determining its trade-in value. We’ll discuss the condition requirements in more detail later in this article.
Does Apple Buy Broken iPhones?
So, can you sell your broken iPhone to Apple? The answer is, it depends. Apple does accept broken iPhones through its trade-in program, but the device must meet certain criteria to be eligible. Here are some guidelines to keep in mind:
Broken Screen? No Problem!
If your iPhone has a broken screen, you may still be able to trade it in to Apple. However, the trade-in value will likely be lower than if the screen was in good condition. Apple considers a broken screen to be one that is cracked, shattered, or has other damage that affects the display.
Battery Issues? Maybe Not
If your iPhone has battery issues, such as a battery that won’t hold a charge or is swelling, it may not be eligible for trade-in. Apple requires that devices have a functioning battery that can hold at least 80% of its original capacity.
Water Damage? Sorry, No Go
If your iPhone has been damaged by water or has signs of corrosion, it is not eligible for trade-in. Apple considers water damage to be a significant defect that renders the device unusable.
Other Issues
Apple also considers other issues, such as camera or microphone malfunctions, as well as devices that are locked to a particular carrier or have iCloud or other accounts locked. If your device has any of these issues, it may not be eligible for trade-in or may have a lower trade-in value.
How Much Is My Broken iPhone Worth?
The trade-in value of your broken iPhone will depend on several factors, including the model, condition, and storage capacity of the device. Here are some rough estimates of what you might expect to receive for your broken iPhone:
| iPhone Model | Good Condition | Broken Screen | Battery Issues |
|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 8 | $150-$200 | $100-$150 | $50-$100 |
| iPhone X | $250-$350 | $150-$250 | $100-$200 |
| iPhone 11 | $350-$450 | $250-$350 | $150-$300 |
Keep in mind that these are rough estimates and the actual trade-in value of your broken iPhone may be higher or lower, depending on the specific condition of the device.
Other Options for Selling Your Broken iPhone
If Apple’s trade-in program doesn’t offer a decent price for your broken iPhone, or if your device doesn’t meet the eligibility criteria, don’t worry – there are other options for selling your broken iPhone.
Sell to a Third-Party Reseller
Companies like Gazelle, Decluttr, and NextWorth specialize in buying used and broken electronics. These companies often offer competitive prices for broken iPhones, and may even offer free shipping and a hassle-free selling experience.
Sell on Online Marketplaces
Online marketplaces like eBay, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace can be a good way to sell your broken iPhone. Just be sure to set a competitive price and provide clear descriptions and photos of the device’s condition to attract buyers.
Conclusion
If you’re stuck with a broken iPhone, Apple’s trade-in program may be a good option for getting some cash back. However, be sure to carefully review the eligibility criteria and condition requirements to ensure that your device qualifies. If Apple’s program doesn’t offer a decent price, consider selling your broken iPhone to a third-party reseller or on an online marketplace. With a little patience and effort, you can turn your broken iPhone into cold, hard cash.
How much can I get for my broken iPhone?
You can get a varying amount of money for your broken iPhone, depending on the extent of the damage and the model of your device. If your iPhone has significant water damage or a shattered screen, you may not get as much as you would for a device with less severe damage. However, even a broken iPhone can be worth something to the right buyer.
Factors that can affect the value of your broken iPhone include the age of the device, its storage capacity, and any additional features it may have. For example, an iPhone with more storage capacity or advanced camera capabilities may be worth more than a base model. Additionally, the demand for broken iPhones can fluctuate depending on the availability of parts and the needs of repair shops, so it’s a good idea to research current market prices before selling.
What kind of broken iPhones can be sold?
Any iPhone with damage or defects can be sold, regardless of its condition. This includes devices with cracked screens, water damage, faulty charging ports, or other issues that make them unusable. Even if your iPhone is in poor condition, it may still have value as a source of spare parts or for repair.
Some buyers may be looking for specific types of broken iPhones, such as those with functional screens but damaged batteries, or those with water damage but still-intact logic boards. Others may be looking for devices with specific features, such as a certain amount of storage capacity or a particular camera setup. Regardless of the type of damage or defect, there may be a buyer out there willing to pay for your broken iPhone.
Who buys broken iPhones?
There are several types of buyers who may be interested in purchasing your broken iPhone. These include electronics recycling companies, repair shops, and individual buyers who specialize in refurbishing and reselling broken devices. Additionally, some online trade-in programs and electronics retailers may also accept broken iPhones as part of their trade-in programs.
Many of these buyers are looking for broken iPhones as a source of spare parts, which they can use to repair other devices or sell to repair shops. Others may be looking for devices that can be refurbished and resold for a profit. Regardless of the buyer, they will typically offer you a price based on the condition and value of your device.
How do I sell my broken iPhone?
There are several ways to sell your broken iPhone, depending on your needs and preferences. You can sell it to an online trade-in program, which will provide you with a prepaid shipping label and a quote based on the condition of your device. You can also sell it to a local repair shop or electronics recycling company, which may offer you a higher price if you’re willing to negotiate.
Additionally, you can sell your broken iPhone on online marketplaces like eBay or Craigslist, although this will require you to create a listing and handle the sale yourself. You can also use online forums or social media groups to connect with individual buyers who may be looking for broken iPhones.
Is it safe to sell my broken iPhone online?
Selling your broken iPhone online can be safe as long as you take certain precautions. When selling to an online trade-in program or electronics recycling company, make sure to research the company thoroughly and read reviews from other customers. This can help you ensure that you’re working with a reputable buyer who will provide a fair price and keep your personal data secure.
When selling to an individual buyer online, take extra precautions to protect your personal and financial information. Use a secure payment method like PayPal, and be cautious about sharing personal data or sending your device to an unverified buyer. Additionally, make sure to wipe your iPhone clean of personal data before shipping it to anyone.
How do I wipe my iPhone clean before selling?
Before selling your broken iPhone, it’s essential to wipe it clean of personal data to protect your privacy and security. To do this, go to the Settings app and select “General,” then “Reset.” From there, select “Erase All Content and Settings” to restore your iPhone to its factory settings. This will delete all of your personal data, including contacts, photos, and apps.
Additionally, you may want to remove your SIM card and any memory cards, as these may contain personal data as well. You should also log out of iCloud and disable Find My iPhone to prevent the new owner from accessing your personal data. By taking these steps, you can ensure that your personal information is protected and your broken iPhone is ready for its new owner.
Can I get a better price for my broken iPhone if I fix it first?
In some cases, you may be able to get a better price for your broken iPhone if you fix it first. However, this will depend on the extent of the damage and the cost of repairs. If your iPhone has a cracked screen or other minor damage, fixing it first may increase its value. However, if your iPhone has more severe damage, such as water damage or a broken logic board, repairs may not be cost-effective.
Additionally, some buyers may be looking specifically for broken iPhones with certain types of damage, so fixing your device first may not necessarily increase its value. It’s a good idea to research current market prices and factor in the cost of repairs before deciding whether to fix your iPhone or sell it as-is.