Many people don’t sell their old smartphones but store them away in drawers. A recent study reveals why this happens and offers insights on how to make the most of unused devices.
A Billion-Euro Problem
What happens to old smartphones when you upgrade to a new device? More often than not, they end up forgotten in a drawer. According to a study by the online used smartphone shop Swappie, these devices represent a massive untapped value.
The report, based on data from the European Commission, estimates that around 700 million old smartphones are stored in European households. Swappie calculates that these devices have an average residual value of €200 each, resulting in an astonishing €140 billion worth of unused smartphones sitting idle across the EU.
Europe’s Smartphone Upgrade Habits
Approximately 40% of smartphone users replace their devices every two years, often tied to mobile contract renewals. While 78% of people claim they’d consider selling their old devices, most fail to follow through, instead letting their smartphones gather dust.
Why Do People Keep Old Smartphones?
Swappie’s survey highlights two main reasons:
- Backup Devices:
- About 34% of users keep their old smartphones as a backup in case the new one stops working. However, it’s unclear how often such backups are actually needed.
- Privacy Concerns:
- Around 36% of respondents fear their personal data could be misused, preventing them from selling their devices.
Reassurance from Experts
Robert Fritsche, Country Manager at Swappie Germany, addresses these concerns: Refurbished providers follow strict data deletion protocols to ensure all personal information is erased before resale. This means you can sell your phone worry-free, even if you haven’t manually wiped it.
Environmental and Financial Benefits
Selling your old smartphone isn’t just good for your wallet; it’s also an eco-friendly choice. By reducing electronic waste and lowering CO2 emissions, selling your device contributes to a more sustainable future.