The pre-loved market of smartphones is a big one, and people looking for affordability, flexibility, and the ability to get some amazing devices at far more reasonable prices. If you’re in the camp of possibly trading in your device in hopes of upgrading (or perhaps just getting a bit of money for your old phone), there are a few things to keep in mind before doing the trade-in.
Back-up your device’s contents
Obviously, removing all of the content on your soon-to-be-traded-in device is important for privacy and security, so that a potential new owner doesn’t have your content on their device. Both Android and iOS devices have built-in cloud backup features that you can use, alternatively there are a number of great apps, such as Phone Clone, to transfer all your phone’s contents to a new device. Backing up your messages and call-logs is also a good idea, as most backup services focus on files and images, rather than app history – so keep that in mind.
Factory reset
Even if you delete, back-up, or transfer all your data, remember that mobile phones (and other devices) save certain information. Furthermore, it’s best to trade-in a device that has been completely reset, and you can do this using the factory reset feature that most phones have. On Android, from Settings pick System, Reset options and Erase all data (factory reset). From iOS Settings, select General, Transfer or Reset iPhone, and Erase All Content and Settings.
Device condition
Lastly, try and keep in mind that the condition of your device can determine the price or trade-in value that it’s worth. Cleaning the device, removing any smudges on the display, making sure the headphone jack (if it has one) is working and unobstructed, and that all the side buttons are functional are important elements to determining what condition your device is actually in.
If you’re in the market for a new device or looking to trade-in in your mobile, check out Mobitronics, who offer great deals on smartphones along with trade-in options available.