Every time Apple releases the latest iPhone, there is always a buzz of excitement, and anticipation with many people looking to upgrade. This means that almost overnight, there is a glut of older models on the market to be sold, or simply to sit in drawers unused and gathering dust. So if you are one of these “early-adopters” here are some tips about what to do with your old smartphone.
Travel Phone: Escape Roaming Fees
If your work requires you to constantly travel out of the country, have your old iPhone unlocked to avoid paying roaming charges. Unlocked iPhones can easily be connected to a local network service, but you automatically lose the warranty. Well, this should not be a huge concern since your timeworn gadget will most likely be disposed of one way or another so it may as well save you money and let you keep in touch overseas. International roaming services can be amazingly expensive. Your old iPhone can help you save hundreds of dollars if unlocked and save you more than you’d make on a sale.
Multimedia Player: Music Streaming And Photography
Versatility is an intrinsic character of every iPhone. Its multimedia capabilities are stunning. And what’s more, it can be used without a SIM card. If you don’t need a spare phone, you can use it for music streaming and creating playlists just like an iPod or for taking snaps of people and places.
If you don’t have enough cash to purchase a DSLR, your old iPhone can do wonders for you. The improved lens and displays of iPhone 4s, 5, 5c and 5s put the tools of a great photographer in your pocket. And there are numerous apps that can help you take pro shots using just your iPhone.
Sell: Make Money Out Of It
Perhaps, this is the most common way to repurpose your old iPhone. Make easy money by selling it to someone you know or via online auction sites such as eBay or Amazon. There is a good market for this, especially if it is in good working condition and priced fairly.
When pricing, you may want to study the market place to find out what old phones are changing hands for. Evaluate the condition of your phone – memory, warranty, performance, etc. This will give you a better perspective on the minimum rate you would accept in exchange for your old iPhone.
Trade: Get Something Out Of It
Check for trade promotions available online. You may find items that you want in exchange for your old iPhone. There are sites that offer gift cards or credit points that you can use to purchase a range of items that could be of more use than your spare phone.
Give: As A Gift Or Donation
If the above-mentioned repurposing methods do not appeal to you, maybe it’s time that you make someone happy and gift your old iPhone. Perhaps a less tech-savvy officemate who’s not upgraded for years, or a friend who has recently lost his or her mobile phone – that happens to all of us at some time or another after all. Another good idea is to hand it on to a local charity or business where it can do more good than sitting unused at home.
Of course, you can only give away your phone if it is in a good working condition. If the phone has reached the end of its useful life, then it may be better to get it recycled. After all, it’s full of precious metals and chips that can be reused.
Participate In Recycling Programs
It’s always a good idea to participate in recycling programs. Instead of throwing your scratched and damaged iPhone, find a center that recycles old phones (or parts of them). They’ll have better ideas about how to dispose or salvage the gadget. If you are lucky, you might even get a little extra cash out of it.
Your old iPhones deserve more than just being a space taker in an unused drawer. So put it to good use and see if the options above are something you might want to consider.
Published on 26th March 2014 by Jeanne DeWitt.
