Ready for an upgrade? Here’s what to do with old cell phones

Want to get more out of your mobile phone provider?

Upgrading your phone every few years has become the norm. In fact, the average lifecycle of a smartphone is 2.65 years. This allows you to reap the benefits of the latest cell phone models and most advanced technologies, but it leads to an important question: What happens to all those old phones?

Sadly, many cell phones get thrown away each year—roughly 5.3 billion in 2022—which can significantly impact the environment.

What to do with old cell phones

Optimum Mobile has several sustainable recommendations for how to dispose of your old phone. From trading to recycling, we’ll help you learn what to do with old cell phones. Optimum will also provide a few tips for preparing your phone before you discard it.

1. Sell your old cell phone

Websites like eBay, Amazon, and Facebook Marketplace are simple platforms for selling an older phone. You can use these sites to complete the entire sales process—from engaging with potential buyers to shipping.

While the money you receive for your old phone is likely to be less than the purchase price,, you can use the proceeds from the sale to offset the cost of your new phone.

Be mindful that you should reset your phone and remove any personal information before handing your phone over to a new owner.

2. Trade-in your old phone

Another way to get cash back from used cell phones is to trade them in. Contact your phone provider, and they’ll let you know if your phone is eligible and estimate how much it’s worth.

Then, swap in your old phone for credit on your mobile account, which can be put toward the cost of a new phone. Check out Optimum Mobile’s simple trade-in service.

3. Recycle your used phone

Recycling your old phone is a simple way to reduce the environmental impact of disposing of it. Websites like Swappa and SellCell can help you recycle it safely and easily. If your phone is in good condition, you may even be able to recycle it in return for money.

Alternatively, donating your phone is a sensible option for older or damaged phones that are unlikely to have much monetary value. Sites like Call2Recycle make donating your old phone a breeze. Or, you can check out the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) website to find an electronics recycling center near you.

4. Repurpose your old phone

If your old phone is still in good condition, you may wish to keep it. You can save it as a backup, or use it for its non-communication features. After all, a smartphone can serve as your music player, gaming device, security camera, or even a digital photo frame.

How Optimum can help you get the most from your old phone

Optimum Mobile has a phone trade-in service that allows you to get credit for your old phone, which you can use to purchase a new one. You can also pop into one of our stores, and we’ll help you find the right Mobile plan to go with your updated device.