Hardware & Gadgets

Apple Boosts Trade-In Values for iPhones, Macs, and iPads

Apple has significantly increased trade-in values for a range of its devices, including iPhones, Macs, and iPads. Several new Android models were also added to the trade-in program.

Timothy Allen
Timothy Allen covers hardware & gadgets for Techawave.
3 min read0 views
Apple Boosts Trade-In Values for iPhones, Macs, and iPads
Share

Apple has updated its U.S. trade-in program, offering higher credit values for most iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch models. This adjustment, which went into effect in August 2026, also marks the first time several Android phones have been included in the company's trade-in estimates.

Some devices have seen their estimated trade-in values jump by as much as 30% since the previous update in May 2026, according to reports. The top-tier iPhone 16 Pro Max now qualifies for up to $720, an increase from its previous estimate of $695. The enhancements extend across the entire iPhone lineup, even benefiting older supported models. For instance, the iPhone 16 Pro's trade-in value rose from $560 to $630, while the iPhone 16 Plus saw an increase from $465 to $485. Even the iPhone SE (3rd generation) received a modest boost, moving from $80 to $85.

The iPad range also experienced positive adjustments. The iPad Pro can now be traded in for up to $720, up from $690. Other iPad models like the iPad Air and iPad mini saw their estimated values increase to $490 and $300, respectively. The base model iPad also saw its trade-in value rise to $260.

Significant Gains for Mac Trade-Ins

Mac computers, in particular, have seen some of the most substantial percentage increases in their estimated trade-in worth. The Mac mini leads this surge, with its value jumping approximately 28%, from $375 to $480. MacBook Pro models can now fetch up to $855 in trade-in credit, a notable increase from $690. Similarly, the MacBook Air's value increased from $520 to $580. High-end machines like the Mac Studio and Mac Pro also received value boosts, climbing to $1,305 and $2,195, respectively.

Apple Watch values have also been adjusted upward across most of its series. The Apple Watch Series 10 now has an estimated trade-in value between $150 and $165. Older models like the Apple Watch Series 8 saw an increase to $95, and the Series 7 is now valued up to $70. However, premium models such as the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and the second-generation Apple Watch SE remain unchanged in their trade-in estimates.

The inclusion of several new Android phones marks a significant expansion of Apple's trade-in program. Among the newly added devices are the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL, which can be traded in for up to $315, and the Google Pixel 9 Pro, estimated at $305. The standard Google Pixel 9 is now worth up to $210. The Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G is a new addition valued at $95. The trade-in program also welcomes OnePlus models, including the OnePlus 13 for up to $250 and the OnePlus 13R for $165.

This move by Apple, which regularly updates its trade-in program to align with market values and encourage upgrades, aims to make its ecosystem more accessible. By offering more competitive credit for older devices, the company incentivizes consumers to trade in their current phones, tablets, and computers when purchasing new Apple products. The inclusion of a wider range of Android devices suggests an effort to capture a broader market share of trade-in customers, potentially influencing purchasing decisions for users looking to switch platforms or upgrade their existing non-Apple devices.

While these increased values offer a financial incentive for consumers, Apple reiterates that final trade-in offers are contingent on the device's condition and specific configuration. Not all devices may be eligible for trade-in credit, and the quoted values are estimates. The company's trade-in program has historically seen periodic adjustments, reflecting shifts in the secondary market for electronics and Apple's own product release cycles.

SourceMacRumors
Share