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Apple now letting UK customers trade in their iPad at retail stores
Seven months after it began letting customers trade in their iPhones at its retail stores, Apple's expanded its Reuse and Recycle programme to include iPads. From today, anyone with an iPad 2, iPad 3, iPad 4 and iPad mini can walk into an Apple Store, hand over their tablet and receive credit towards a new iOS device. However, the company will not accept current-generation devices like the iPad Air or iPad mini with Retina display. As with its iPhone programme, Apple will assess the condition of devices before providing a trade-in value, so don't expect a huge return if your iPad has seen better days.
The TUAW Daily Update Podcast for April 7, 2014
It's the TUAW Daily Update, your source for Apple news in a convenient audio format. You'll get some the top Apple stories of the day in three to five minutes for a quick review of what's happening in the Apple world. You can listen to today's Apple stories by clicking the player at the top of the page. The Daily Update has been moved to a new podcast host in the past few days. Current listeners should delete the old podcast subscription and subscribe to the new feed in the iTunes Store here.
Walmart dips into trade-in market this month, selling used games in summer
The used game market just grew immensely, as Walmart announced plans today to begin taking video game trade-ins across the United States, putting itself in direct competition with GameStop. Starting March 26, those trading their games in at more than 3,100 Walmart stores will receive a gift card usable at any Walmart or Sam's Club location in exchange. All exchanged products are then "sent to be refurbished and made available for purchase in like-new condition starting this summer." The retailer will accept online trade-ins for all games, but will only allow in-store exchanges for hardware. Walmart provided an exchange rate calculator on its website to give customers an idea of trade-in values. As for functional hardware, when including all the accompanying cables and one controller, the Xbox One has a current trade-in value of $390, the PS4 is $375, the Wii U Deluxe is $120, a 3G-enabled Vita is $95 and 3DS XL is $105. Working copies of Grand Theft Auto 5 currently exchange at $27.72, Dead Rising 3 is $38, the PS4 version of NBA 2K14 is $35.42 and Super Mario 3D World is $38. [Image: Walmart]
Walmart's used games for gift cards trade-in program opens March 26th (video)
After many rumors and even a brief trial program, Walmart is finally following Best Buy, Amazon and, of course, GameStop in taking trade-ins of used games. It will start accepting your old games on March 26th, in exchange for store credit usable at Walmart and Sam's Club, whether in-store or online. Once it has the games they'll be refurbished and then this summer, go on sale for "a great low price." It's all very familiar if you've ever traded a game in before, but Walmart says it will "pay more for used games, sell new and used games for less, and give our customers the flexibility to spend their money how they want." Your move, GameStop.
Gazelle, Apple, security, and your iPhone
When you're done with your iPhone -- whether it's getting replaced by a new model or suffered some sort of damage that warrants a replacement -- it's always good to get the most out of it. There are a rising number of companies that want your used iDevices in exchange for cash, but most people are uncomfortable with even their friends or family members snooping around on their phones, much less a company. Gazelle is one of the most recognizable names in this growing business. I've always wondered exactly what happens to a device once you send it off to a company like Gazelle -- from where the gadget eventually ends up to how it deals with stolen devices, and what security measures it takes to ensure the used phones and tablets leave its hands crystal clean -- so I asked. What happens to your iDevice? If you've ever dealt with Gazelle, you know that the company can't guarantee you a price for your iPhone or iPad until it has seen it in person. On the company's website you can get a quote based on the model of your device, carrier, and estimated condition, but that price isn't officially offered until you've sent your gadget to the company's facility in Louisville. Once the device arrives, it's unpacked and its data is wiped. Users are obviously encouraged to wipe their data before sending their phones or tablets in, but to ensure nothing is missed, Gazelle does it again. For iPhones and iPads, Gazelle uses both the built-in data wipe feature to clear the device, as well as data sanitation software from California-based FutureDial. The device's serial number is checked against a nationwide database of devices that have been reported stolen, thwarting criminals looking to make a quick buck. When a flag is raised during this check, the information is handed over to local law enforcement. But as easy a target as smartphones and tablets seem to be, the number of stolen Apple gadgets that come through Gazelle's doors is actually quite small. Gazelle's Chief Gadget Officer, Anthony Scarsella, revealed that less than 1% of all devices sent to Gazelle have been reported stolen. When Gazelle receives a broken phone or tablet -- which, according to the company, is approximately 30% to 40% of its business -- it works with a refurbishing partner to repair it, at which point it is wiped like all the rest. If your gadget is too busted to be salvaged, the only option is to have it recycled. For this, Gazelle uses CloudBlue, an e-waste disposal company with processing facilities located across the United States and around the world. CloudBlue was one of the first organizations to receive e-Stewards Certification, marking it as a leader in responsible e-waste management. Finding a new home Once your iPhone or iPad makes its way through Gazelle's processing facility, and long after you've gotten your payment, the recycled devices often find their way to the hands of a reseller. Gazelle sells its used devices in wholesale numbers, and along with hundreds or thousands of others, your iDevice eventually gets listed on a site like eBay as a used device looking for a new lease on life. If you've ever wondered how a popular merchant on Amazon or eBay gets its hands on endless numbers of used iDevices, now you have your answer. BFFs: Apple and Gazelle It's clear that Apple has become the primary focus for Gazelle in recent years, with the company changing its resale efforts to focus almost exclusively on Apple products. Where Gazelle once accepted everything from Blu-ray players to camcorders, the list of accepted devices now much smaller, and the only types of computers allowed are Macs. Due to rapidly-shifting trade-in trends, the company couldn't reveal to me the breakdown of what percentage of devices it handles are Apple-branded. However, I did find out that Gazelle's Lousiville processing facility reached its peak employment volume following the release of the iPhone 5s and iPhone 5c, pointing to the company's close relationship with Apple's product cycles. The folks at Gazelle were very open about their process, and if the company is sticking with the process it described to me, it seems to be acting in an environmentally responsible and socially conscious way. Its decision to focus on Apple products means it's likely to remain a major player in the resale scene for the foreseeable future. However, with greater numbers of iPhone and iPad users looking to get ride of their gadgets for a few bucks, and companies like Amazon looking for their own slice of the pie, Gazelle certainly has a healthy dose of competition. [Photos courtesy of Gazelle]
T-Mobile will give you $250 if you trade in your old BlackBerry for a new one
If you hadn't heard, BlackBerry chief John Chen isn't happy with T-Mobile -- he believes the carrier fired a shot across the bow when it enticed BlackBerry users to switch phones in a recent promotion. To mend that bruised relationship, the magenta network is launching a limited-time trade-in offer that gives loyal users a strong incentive to upgrade. As of February 21st, T-Mobile will give you $200 for your existing BlackBerry, and $250 if you're upgrading from a T-Mobile BlackBerry to a BB10 device like the Q10 or Z10. The payout is the same regardless of the device's age, so long as it's in good condition; if you're still rocking a Curve 3G, you'll get the full amount. Market share trends suggest that there won't be too many people upgrading to new BlackBerrys, but the olive branch is welcome all the same.
Microsoft offers free Lumia 520 handset with an Xbox Music pass
If you're pondering a new phone or Windows device, Microsoft is keen to help out at the moment. First of all, it's offering up to $250 of store credit for your well-kept smartphone or tablet, depending on the model. That trumps the $200 iPad trade-in from last year and would get you a deal on any product (sold in participating stores) and not just the Surface Pro 2 like last time. Redmond also wants to prod those looking to get Xbox Music by offering a no-contract Nokia Lumia 520 or 521 T-Mobile version gratis with a one year, $100 pass. That's a phone we'd likely pass on at the regular price, but if you're looking to get Xbox Music anyway, "free" definitely works. The trade-in expires on March 2nd, but you'll have to think faster to get the Lumia 520 or 521 -- that deal's over on February 17th.
Microsoft Store offers $100 credit for PS3, Xbox 360 trade-in
Hoping to make an upgrade to the Xbox One that much more tempting, Microsoft has unveiled a new promotion that offers Microsoft Store visitors a $100 credit in exchange for their PlayStation 3 or Xbox 360. Before you rush out to hand over your gaming device, keep in mind that there are a few caveats to this deal. First, Microsoft isn't accepting just any old Xbox 360. If you plan to trade yours in, it will have to be either an Xbox 360 Elite or the more recent Xbox 360 Slim. Owners of the original Xbox 360 model are out of luck, though the Microsoft Store will accept any variation of PlayStation 3. Additionally, the fine print attached to this promotion notes that you don't necessarily need to use this $100 store credit toward an Xbox One, but that if you aren't trading in your old console towards Microsoft's newest gaming device you may not receive the full $100. "To receive maximum trade in value, you must purchase an Xbox One at the same time," reads a notice on the Microsoft Store website. "Any appraised value will be determined at trade in and provided as store credit, subject to Microsoft's discretion and approval." The final caveat is that this deal is only available in select Microsoft Store locations. To see if your local store is participating, visit the Microsoft Store site, then click the "Your Store" link at the top of the page. If available, you should see the $100 credit advertised front and center. [Thanks Viet] [Image: Wikimedia Commons]
AT&T will give you up to $450 to leave T-Mobile
AT&T is clearly worried that T-Mobile's recent success may be coming at its own expense -- it just launched a promotion that gives T-Mobile customers up to $450 to switch to Big Blue. The deal offers converts a minimum of $200 once they've subscribed to a smartphone plan, plus up to $250 more if they trade in an existing phone. There's no mention of when the promo will end, although it's described as a "limited time" offer. The deal may be tempting if you're already inclined to jump ship, although you'll want to do the math before you leave. While AT&T will now cut your bill when off-contract, T-Mobile's contract-free rates could be lower depending on the device you buy; it may be cheaper in the long run.
Apple begins aggressive trade-in program in India to boost iPhone 5c sales
In an effort to boost sales of the iPhone 5c in India, Apple is reportedly implementing an aggressive trade-in scheme whereby users can trade in their old iPhone 4 and receive discounted prices on the iPhone 5c. Specifically, users who trade in an iPhone 4 are eligible for a US$207 discount on both the 16 and 32 GB models of the iPhone 5c. The Times of India reports: Under this offer, buyers will be able to get their hands on the 16 and 32GB iPhone 5C models at Rs 28,900 and Rs 40,500 respectively, while iPhone 4S will be available for Rs 18,500. The official price of the iPhone 5C's 16 and 32GB variants is Rs 41,900 and Rs 53,500, whereas iPhone 4S costs Rs 31,500. For reference, 125 Rupees is equivalent to approximately 2 US dollars. That being the case, a discounted 16 GB iPhone 5c, with an eligible trade-in, will be available for $461.80. Apple's trade-in offer is not just limited to older-generation iPhones. Consumers can also receive discounts from trading in select smartphones from other manufacturers like Nokia, BlackBerry, Sony, HTC and Samsung. The Times of India article notes that when Apple initiated a similar buyback program in India a few months ago, iPhone sales tripled.
Trade in your PS3 or Xbox 360 this week, get at least $100 at Best Buy
Those looking for a little extra dough for the holidays or for their new PS4 or Xbox One systems may consider trading in their current-gen consoles. Best Buy has those folks in mind this week, as it is offering a minimum $100 gift card for all working Xbox 360 and PS3 systems. The deal is good through participating Best Buy locations until Saturday, November 23. While the condition of the system and added accessories will affect the value Best Buy places on the used goods, any console with a broken factory seal, is cracked or has water damage will not be eligible for trade-in. We told you to not bring your Xbox 360 down the water slide.
Apple relaxing restrictions on water-damaged iPhones for trade-in program
Apple's Reuse and Recycling program allows customers to quickly trade in their old iPhone for in-store credit when they are buying a new iPhone. Previously the amount a customer could get for their old phone would be impacted by whether or not the phone had water damage. If the iPhone's liquid contact indicator was activated, the iPhone would be worthless (for Apple's trade-in program). Now, however, iPhones with liquid contact indicators that have been activated, but that are still in working order, will still be accepted for the trade-in program. As 9to5Mac notes, the iPhones still cannot have any serious water damage, including liquid under the iPhone's display, or corrosion in any of its ports. The changes are good news to those iPhone owners who wish to trade them in and may have fully functioning iPhones whose liquid contact indicator was only activated due to, for example, sweat while working out.
iPad trade-in numbers more than double since 2012
Today sales of the iPad Air began at Apple (and other) retail stores around the world. If trade-in numbers at Gazelle and Nextworth are any indication, many of those who are anxiously awaiting the arrival of the new device will be happily trading in their older iPads to help pay for the new equipment. Anthony Scarsella, the "chief gadget officer" at Boston-based Gazelle told Computerworld that trade-in quotes for iPads were up 130 percent over October 2012. The numbers are almost identical at Billerica, Mass.-based NextWorth, where Chief Marketing Officer Jeff Trachsel reported that quote volume is up 127 percent. Both of the trade-in companies cited the redesign of the iPad Air for the increased interest in turning in older iPads for cash. The new device is 20 percent thinner and 29 percent lighter than the fourth-generation iPad, catching the eye of consumers who may have held onto first- and second-generation devices until now. What's the most popular device people are turning into cash? The third-generation iPad. Nextworth says those accounted for 35 percent of all iPad quotes in October, while Gazelle says they're about 31 percent of their total iPad quotes for last month. iPad mini quotes are relatively flat, primarily because users appear to be waiting for the device to ship later this month before deciding whether or not to make a trade-in. Are you trading in an old device this month to help pay for a new one? Let us know in the comments.
Pocket $200 for old consoles with new Alienware purchase
It's difficult to put a price on the seven years of memories you've shared with your 60GB PS3, but if Alienware had to take a guess, it'd say all that mushy emotional investment is worth $200 in cold, hard cash. Alienware's trade-in program now includes game consoles, offering $200 for the Wii, 250GB Xbox 360 Slim, 60GB PS3 "fat," 120GB PS3 Slim and 500GB PS3 "super slim" when you buy a new Alienware system. Consoles have to be fully functional and complete with power adapters. To receive the trade-in cash, first buy a new Alienware PC, then print out a prepaid shipping label via the Trade Up Portal and send in your console. Once it's verified, wait 40 days to receive the money. Last step: Splurge. Or save it, if you're the practical type. Alienware ran a similar trade-in program in 2007, offering cash for everything from MP3 players to PCs. With the Steam Machines on their way, a shiny new computer could be the way to go for those unimpressed or uninterested in major next-gen offerings.
T-Mobile offers 200MB free monthly data for all tablets, will carry Nexus 7 in-store on November 20th
T-Mobile's plan to offer 200MB of free monthly data to iPad users was just the start of a larger strategy. As of November 1st, the no-charge bandwidth will be available for the lifetime of any tablet on the network; customers who pay for data will get the 200MB on top of their existing caps. The company is simultaneously launching a tablet trade-in program that will discount new devices when shoppers bring in old slates, even if they're WiFi-only. To draw attention to its new initiative, T-Mobile has revealed that it will carry the LTE-ready Nexus 7 in-store on November 20th. Customers can get Google's tablet with no money down if they're willing to pay $16 per month for two years, or $384 in total. That's ultimately more expensive than purchasing through Google Play, but it may be easier to swallow for those who can't afford to buy the device outright.
Apple launches iPhone trade-in program in the UK
Apple has officially launched its iPhone trade-in program in the UK. Officially called the Reuse and Recycling Program, the initiative allows users to receive in-store credit for their current mobile phone to use towards the purchase of a new iPhone. The iPhone trade-in program has been live in the US for some time, but its UK launch marks new territory. To be sure, you're still better of selling your old iPhone yourself -- via services like eBay or Gumtree -- as Apple doesn't give you as much money for your device as you could otherwise get. For example, an unlocked black, 32 GB iPhone 5 in perfect condition only nets you £230 from Apple, while you could easily get over £400 for such a device on Gumtree. Still, the program will benefit those who want a simple and fast way to get credit for their old phones when buying a new iPhone.
Apple's iPhone trade-in program hits UK retail stores from today
Apple has offered online trade-ins for the last few years, and now it's bringing its in-store version across the pond to the UK. The fruity phone flinger is letting customers wander into one of the company's retail outlets, drop off their elderly hardware and walk out with credit for a replacement. Apple released the following statement, which should sound familiar to anyone who had already read the US version -- after all, all someone did was add the phrase "in the UK" to the text. "iPhones hold great value. So, Apple Retail Stores in the UK are launching a new program to assist customers who wish to bring in their previous-generation iPhone for reuse or recycling. In addition to helping support the environment, customers will be able to receive a credit for their returned phone that they can use toward the purchase of a new iPhone." Update: We're also hearing news that the trade-in program has gone live in a few other European countries this morning. We've contacted Apple and will let you know what the official line is when we hear back.
Selling your iPad? NextWorth has a special deal for TUAW readers (Updated)
Perhaps you're thinking about getting some money for that old iPad so you can be one of the first to get a new one. If so, NextWorth has a heck of a deal for TUAW readers. Between now and November 11, use the special offer code TUAW when you're doing an iPad trade-in with NextWorth, and you'll receive an extra 10% on the trade-in value. As a reminder, we'll be listing this special code on our daily deals page. Update: An earlier version of this post noted incorrectly that the deal good for iPhone trade-ins as well, resulting in some of our readers not seeing the extra 10% of value added onto their trade-in. We apologize for the inconvenience and confusion we may have caused readers.
Microsoft offers $200 credit for used iPads, hopes you'll become a Surface convert
Microsoft's new recycle-for-reward initiative doesn't target one of its own devices -- instead, it focuses on another company's popular gadget: Apple's iPad. The US trade-in program offers at least $200 in exchange for a "gently used" iPad 2, 3 or 4. You can probably get more than $200 in other places, especially for the newer slates, and you can even get cash instead of the Microsoft Store gift cards Redmond's giving out. However, outgoing CEO Ballmer and Co. are hoping you'll find the project helpful if you've been wanting to buy their products anyway -- particularly the Surface tablets, as evidenced by their prominent placement on the program's page. Before you surrender old iPads to give Surface a chance, know that the trade-in scheme will run until October 27th, which gives you time to see Microsoft's next attempt.
Microsoft will pay foolish people $200 to ditch their iPad, but you should know better
When a device has cornered a market as well as Apple's iPad line has, the competition will do a lot in an attempt to close the gap, and too-good-to-be-true trade-in programs are not unheard of. Microsoft has launched a promotion in the hopes of getting iPad users to ditch their tablets in favor of the company's own Surface, but rather than too-good-to-be-true, this "deal" falls into the category of I-can't-believe-they're-serious. Accompanied by an ad that reads "It pays to trade in your old iPad," Microsoft is tweeting that it will pay you a minimum of US$200 in store credit to trade in your second-, third- or fourth-generation iPad and buy a Surface instead. Two. Hundred. Dollars. Aside from the fact that the deal doesn't include the first-generation iPad -- which, logically, would be the device most likely to warrant replacement -- to offer a mere $200 for even the lowliest of the qualifying devices (a 16GB iPad 2 w/WiFi) is a bit ridiculous. That particular model fetches closer to $300 than $200 on eBay, even in "decent" used condition. After contacting several Microsoft Stores to get a better handle on how high their offers go, I was told prices can only be offered once you're actually in the store itself. Seriously, if you have your heart set on a new Windows tablet, at least don't fall for this predatory ploy. You can get much more for your current hardware by putting in a bare minimum of legwork.
