Apple will finally let you cash in your broken iPhone

Apple will finally let you cash in your broken iPhone

Now customers will be able to trade in iPhones with damaged screens, cameras and buttons for credit toward newer models at Apple Retail stores. The trade-in value will vary depending on the iPhone’s model and storage space, with store credit reported to be $50 for the 5s, $200 for the 6, and $250 for the 6 plus model.

Even under this new policy, older iPhones can only be traded in if damaged “within reason,” 9to5 reported, which presumably means the phone must be at least be functional and not, say, waterlogged or smashed to pieces.

Another change rolling out in select Apple stores this week, according to 9to5, is the introduction of screen protector installation machines. Apple has reportedly partnered with Belkin to equip stores with machines that will apply plastic screen protectors to iPhones, something Apple employees have been previously discouraged from doing for customers in case the installation was unsuccessful.

Apple’s new trade-in policies should encourage customers to upgrade rather than repair damage on current iPhones. It seems a safe bet that many consumers will embrace any opportunity to upgrade to the next best thing.