Refurbished and Used Mobile Phones Market Size, Share, and Growth Forecast for 2025 - 2032

Refurbished and Used Mobile Phones Market Size and Share Analysis

The global refurbished and used mobile phones market is estimated to reach a size of US$ 59.77 Bn in 2025. It is predicted to rise at a CAGR of 9.4% through the assessment period to reach a value of US$ 112.11 Bn by 2032.

The refurbished and used mobile phone market is rapidly expanding due to affordability, environmental benefits, and the growing adoption of smartphones in emerging markets. Refurbished smartphones accounted for over 25% of secondary market sales globally in 2024, reflecting the increasing demand for cost-effective alternatives to new devices.

Brands like Apple and Samsung have established certified refurbishing programs, boosting customer trust and market growth.

• In March 2023, Flipkart entered the refurbished smartphone market in India with the goal of satisfying growing customer demand for reasonably priced, high-end gadgets.

• Governments worldwide are implementing strict e-waste regulations, such as the European Union's "Right to Repair" policy, enacted in June 2023, which encourages refurbishment and recycling efforts.

Refurbished electronics are gaining popularity since they are affordable and significantly reduce e-waste. This highlights the need for creative distribution methods and consumer education.

Key Highlights of the Market

• Growing environmental consciousness among consumers, driving demand for sustainable electronics and reducing electronic waste through phone recycling.
• Significant cost savings compared to new smartphones, making high-end devices more accessible to budget-conscious consumers in emerging markets.
• Increasing smartphone penetration in developing countries, with refurbished devices providing affordable alternatives to expensive new models.
• Increased online platforms and marketplaces facilitating easy buying, selling, and trading of refurbished and used smartphones.

• In 2024, used phones are estimated to attain a market share of 54.5% due to easy online trade-ins.

• Based on pricing range, mid-priced (US$ 200-500) range is projected to account for a market share of 39.2% in 2024 due to affordability.
• North America is estimated to attain a market share of 25.8% in 2024 owing to the widespread use of smartphones.
• for mid-range refurbished and used mobile phones
• Europe is anticipated to hold a market share of 21.1% in 2024 with advancement in e-waste initiatives.

Market Attributes	Key Insights
Refurbished and Used Mobile Phones Market Size (2025E)	US$ 59.77 Bn
Projected Market Value (2032F)	US$ 112.11 Bn
Global Market Growth Rate (CAGR 2025 to 2032)	9.4%
Historical Market Growth Rate (CAGR 2019 to 2023)	8.7%

Rising Need for Refurbished Technology Fosters Demand in North America

Widespread smartphone usage and environmental consciousness propelled North America to have a 25.8% share of the worldwide market for reconditioned and used mobile phones in 2024. Refurbished cellphones are preferred by customers due to their affordability and sustainability. Certified refurbished gadgets with warranties are available from stores like Best Buy and Apple Refurbished Store.

Increased smartphone penetration and an increase in e-waste, combined with governments pushing eco-friendly regulations and Apple's refurbished program that offers used iPhones at discounted costs, are the main causes of the boom in smartphone usage, especially in the U.S.

North America is expected to maintain robust growth in the refurbished smartphone market, with a projected CAGR of 11.1%, driven by improvements in refurbishment processes, enhanced retail strategies, and increased consumer trust in pre-owned devices.

Trend of E-waste Management in Europe to Presents Novel Opportunities

In 2024, Europe accounted for 21.1% of the global market, highlighting its commitment to sustainability and e-waste reduction. Consumers value refurbished devices for cost savings and environmental benefits, aligning with the continent's recycling culture and government initiatives like the European Green Deal.

Rebuy and Asgoodasnew, leading brands in the refurbished smartphone market, have seen a surge in demand in 2023 due to the region's growing smartphone adoption and the appeal of affordable, sustainable options.

• The European Union's Right to Repair laws, introduced in 2022, have significantly boosted the refurbishment industry by guaranteeing device longevity and ease of repair.

The market is expected to grow due to environmental concerns, with consumers and governments supporting sustainability initiatives. Refurbished phone providers are playing a crucial role in reducing electronic waste in Europe. 

Consumers Opt for Used Phones Due to Third-party Trade-ins

In 2024, used phones accounted for 54.5% of the global refurbished and used mobile phone market, driven by the rise of device trade-in programs. Manufacturers and recyclers encourage customers to trade in old smartphones for cash or discounts, promoting affordability and reducing electronic waste.

High-end cellphones are re-entering the wholesale market as turnover rates increase. To appeal to consumers who care about the environment, companies like Apple, Samsung, and Xiaomi have increased their recycling and trade-in initiatives. Participation in Apple's trade-in program reached a record high in 2023.

Third-party platforms like Decluttr and Back Market have seen significant sales growth due to affordability and environmental appeal of used devices. As global smartphone penetration increases, the used phone segment continues to dominate, indicating a shift towards sustainable mobile solutions.

Mid-priced Phones Cater the Growing Demand from Middle Class Users

The expanding middle class across the globe is predicted to propel the market for mid-range refurbished and used mobile phones to a 39.2% share in 2024. Developing nations such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia have a strong need for high-quality, reasonably priced mobile devices, which makes reconditioned models more alluring.

Advancements in semiconductor technology and new competitors have reduced production costs for portable refurbished devices, allowing manufacturers to offer high-performance smartphones at competitive prices. Platforms like Amazon Renewed and Flipkart's Certified Refurbished section have seen increased sales.

The industry's focus on affordability and sustainability is shown by Samsung's 2023 expansion of its Certified Re-Newed program, which positions the mid-priced market for future development.

Market Introduction and Trend Analysis

Growing smartphone sales, disposable incomes, and sustainable e-waste management contribute to the booming demand for reconditioned and used mobile phones. Refurbished electronics are more economical and ecologically beneficial because they are returned because of flaws and fixed. They usually cost 20-50% less than new ones and frequently come with warranties.

Targeting consumers on a tight budget in developing countries like India, Apple, Samsung, and Flipkart are increasing customer confidence through authorized restoration programs. Policy initiatives, such as the EU's "Right to Repair," encourage sustainable consumption. The market is further driven by educated customers' strong desire for high-end hardware with short upgrade cycles.

The need for reasonably priced reconditioned cellphones is rising in emerging markets, which is forcing businesses to increase their distribution networks and enhance their client acquisition tactics.

Historical Growth and Course Ahead

The global refurbished and used mobile phones market recorded a CAGR of 8.7% during historical period from 2019 to 2023. Retailers and manufacturers are providing trade-in programs, convenient financing options, and B2B sales of refurbished smartphones.

Specialized retailers, such as iOutlet, are focused on selling these refurbished devices. Businesses are offering value-added services, including customization and extended warranties.

Brands have entered low-income economies, utilizing circular economy concepts through take-back programs and remanufacturing. Refurbished secondary parts are being repurposed or recycled, reducing waste and creating growth opportunities. Demand for refurbished and used mobile phones is estimated to record a remarkable CAGR of 9.4% during the forecast period between 2024 and 2032.

Market Growth Drivers

Expansion of E-commerce Across the World to Support Growth

The popularity of E-commerce is largely due to its convenience and transparency, with platforms like Amazon Renewed, Gazelle, and Back Market providing features like product comparisons, secure payment gateways, and warranty assurances.

• Based on the studies, in 2024, online platforms are anticipated to account for 58.3% of global sales for refurbished and used mobile phones, highlighting their dominance over physical retail stores, which hold 41.7% of the market share.

The rise in smartphone usage and internet penetration has boosted the popularity of online sales channels, as seen in Back Market's US$ 510 Mn global expansion in January 2022. Such platforms facilitate access to refurbished devices, especially in affordable technology-rich regions.

Physical retail stores continue to cater to in-person device inspections, with initiatives like Apple's certified pre-owned phones enhancing their credibility. The combination of online and offline sales channels ensures robust growth in the refurbished and used mobile phones market.

Trend of E-waste Management Promotes the Sustainability in Electronics Industry

Increased environmental concern is changing the market for refurbished electronics. In 2023, 53.6 million metric tons of e-waste will be produced worldwide, of which only 17.4% will be recycled. Refurbished smartphones help mitigate this issue by extending device lifespans, conserving rare materials like gold, palladium, and cobalt, and reducing electronic waste.

Refurbished devices are expected to account for 12.3% of the worldwide smartphone market value in 2024 due to customers' desire for eco-friendly options. Governments are promoting sustainability in the electronics industry. For example,

The European Union has introduced the "Right to Repair" law in 2023. Retailers like Apple and Samsung are also encouraging this trend. They offer certified pre-owned programs and eco-labels for refurbished devices. These actions help build consumer trust and make sustainability an important factor in buying decisions.

Market Restraining Factors

Limited Warranty Period and Shortage of High-end Models

The demand for reconditioned mobile phones is challenged by the lack of high-end models and short warranty durations. Customers frequently look for flagship models like the Samsung Galaxy S23 or iPhone 14 Pro, however, they are frequently restricted or unavailable because of strong resale demand and low return rates.

Refurbished flagship models accounted for barely 15% of worldwide refurbished phone sales in 2024. Limited warranty periods, typically 3 to 12 months, deter potential buyers and increase the perceived risk of purchasing pre-owned electronics.

Companies like Back Market have addressed such concerns by extending warranties to 24 months in select markets, but widespread adoption is needed to overcome growth limitations.

Key Market Opportunities

Technological Improvements in the Refurbishing Technology 

Technological improvements in phone refurbishment are making reconditioned devices more reliable and high-quality. This progress is driving the refurbished mobile phones market. AI-based testing systems are helping to reduce failure rates after purchase.

Apple and Samsung are bolstering the refurbishment market by launching trade-in programs for pre-owned devices. Apple launched its Certified Refurbished program in 2023. This program offers refurbished phones that come with a warranty and updated technology.

• The sales of refurbished phones increased by 22% in 2023. This rise is expected to boost consumer confidence and help the market continue to grow in 2024.

Upgrades in refurbishment processes are enabling manufacturers and resellers to effectively meet the increasing demand for high-quality, cost-effective, and environment-friendly smartphone alternatives.

Lucrative Marketing Campaigns Present Avenues for Online Sales

Distributors such as Amazon and Best Buy are taking an advantage of the growing market for used and refurbished smartphones by running profitable sales campaigns. These include of trade-in schemes, seasonal discounts, and the combination of reconditioned phones with accessories. For instance,

• Reconditioned smartphones were up to 30% discounted during Best Buy's Q4 2023 deal. Along with that, distributors are increasing consumer confidence in reconditioned items by providing free returns and extended warranty terms.

As refurbished phones are more affordable and environment-friendly, consumers are increasingly accepting of them, which is in accordance with the market trend.

Competitive Landscape for the Refurbished and Used Mobile Phones Market

The refurbished and used mobile phones market is undergoing significant transformation as vendors expand their product offerings to meet consumer demands. They are introducing innovative products and forming strategic partnerships to boost the sales.

The competitive sector includes leading OEMs like Apple and Samsung, third-party refurbishers like Amazon Renewed and Back Market, traditional retail outlets like Best Buy Outlet, and online marketplaces like eBay and Swappa, all vying for market share.

Leading OEMs focus on brand recognition and quality, while third-party refurbishers compete on price to appeal to budget-conscious consumers. Retail stores offer a wide range of devices to meet various consumer needs, while third-party refurbishers maintain quality standards and maintain reliability.

Vendors are enhancing their offerings by providing value-added services like warranties, return policies, and comprehensive customer support to resonate with different customer demographics. As the refurbished smartphone market evolves, vendors must be adaptable and strategic to thrive in this dynamic environment.

Recent Industry Developments

• In June 2024, Virgin Media O2, a mass media and telecommunications company based in London, revamped its refurbished phone Like New program, offering savings and limited-time discounts on selected mobiles.
• In June 2024, Vodafone UK introduced a Good Grade range of refurbished phones, offering customers savings, compared to brand-new phones. The phones come with a Lifetime Service Promise, battery refresh, and lifetime warranty.
• In April 2024, Egypt planned a smartphone refurbishment and recycling plant in the Suez Canal Economic Zone, with estimated worth of US$ 105 Mn, led by Paris-based engineer Samuel Mathias.
• In March 2024, Orange Belgium and Recommerce launched a refurbished smartphone webshop with a 2-year guarantee and a CO2 emission reduction goal.
• In August 2023, ReFit Global opened an online marketplace with 50% off reconditioned cellphones.
• In May 2023, AO, an electrical retailer based in Bolton, England, introduced a refurbished revolution by selling refurbished 'as new' mobile phones, including Apple's iPhone 14, handset, and SIM-only plans.

Refurbished and Used Mobile Phones Market Report Scope

Attributes	Details
Forecast Period	2025 to 2032
Historical Data Available for	2019 to 2023
Market Analysis	US$ Billion for Value
Key Regions Covered	North America Europe East Asia South Asia and Oceania The Middle East and Africa Latin America
Key Market Segments Covered	Type Pricing Range Sales Channel Region
Key Companies Profiled in the Report	Apple Inc. Samsung Lenovo Huawei Xiaomi Yaantra Cashify Walmart Amazon eBay Paytm Mobiru India Private Limited Alibaba Chinarephone.com
Report Coverage	Market Forecast and Trends Company Share Analysis Competitive Intelligence DROT Analysis Market Dynamics and Challenges Strategic Growth Initiatives
Customization and Pricing	Available upon request

Refurbished and Used Mobile Phones Market Segmentation

By Type 

• Refurbished Phones
  • Company-owned
  • Consumer-owned
• Used Phones
  • Trade-ins
  • Buybacks

By Pricing Range  

• Low-priced (Less than US$ 200)
• Mid-priced (US$ 200-500)
• Premium (More than US$ 500)

By Sales Channel

• Online/ e-Commerce Sales
• Physical Retail Stores

By Region

• North America
• Europe
• East Asia
• South Asia and Oceania
• Latin America
• The Middle East and Africa

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