Could Your Old Mobile Phone Help Make You Some Extra Cash?

Sunday, 20 February 2022 06:00

By Dominic Kureen @WriteOnDom

Some extra money could be close at hand if you have a mobile gathering dust, says Vicky Shaw.

A cash windfall would be welcomed by many households right now, as living costs surge.

For some, this might be closer than they think, as new research suggests 45% of people have a backup mobile phone they rarely use.

They’re clinging onto these old but working mobile phones, despite using a new model day-to-day.

Mobile network giffgaff released the research, finding the UK is failing to cash in on around £3.4 billion-worth of old and recyclable mobile phones.

Some people might be hanging onto their old mobile “just in case”.

But around two-thirds (67%) of those with old backup handsets say they have not used them in the past year, and nearly a fifth (19%) have used their previous device just once in that time.

Some people also have feelings of fondness for their old mobiles which are stopping them from letting go, with around one in eight (12%) saying they feel emotionally attached to their previous phone.

Households might be missing a trick, as giffgaff says the average trade-in value of a recyclable used handset is £111.

Of course, the exact price someone can get for their old mobile will depend on the handset, and giffgaff cautions prices can potentially fall quickly.

When it compared trade prices for some models between January 2021 and January 2022, it found devices lost around 50% of their value within a year.

Alongside the financial hit, not recycling an old mobile phone could contribute to the problem of “e-waste” from old, unused tech.

CEO of giffgaff Ash Schofield says:

“Our latest research highlights that there’s a significant opportunity for people with an old mobile phone to make a tangible, sustainable impact, and gain some extra cash.

“And with the cost of living rising across the board, now is a great time to get something back by trading in your old phone.”

More from Lifestyle

Five Most Delicious Pastries Worldwide

Pastries are a universal language of indulgence, with cultures around the world contributing their own unique takes on this delicious art form. From flaky, buttery layers to creamy, custard-filled delights, here’s a list of the five most delicious pastries that should be on every food lover's must-try list:
Five Of The Most Stunning Sunsets In The World

Sunsets captivate us with their breath-taking blend of colours, each unique to the place it graces. From vast deserts to bustling cities, sunset moments connect us with nature, offering both tranquillity and awe. Here’s five of the world’s most stunning locations to experience these natural wonders:
Five Amazing Disco Films to Brighten Your Day

Whether you love a good dance floor, fabulous fashion, or simply need a feel-good escape, these disco films are sure to brighten your day. Here are five amazing disco-inspired movies that will transport you to an era of shimmering lights, soulful grooves, and the ultimate celebration of fun:
Five Incredible Bonfire Displays Worldwide

The bonfire, an ancient tradition of fire and festivity, has become a canvas for celebration across cultures worldwide. Some of these fiery gatherings have evolved into massive public spectacles, where communities come together in awe of blazing art forms that range from awe-inspiring sculptures to burning effigies. Here’s a look at five of the wildest, most impressive bonfire displays that captivate audiences around the globe:
Five Unique Sauces From Around The World

Sauces have a way of capturing the heart of a culture’s cuisine. The right combination of spices, herbs, and textures can bring out the richness of any dish. Here are five lesser-known but incredible sauces from around the world, each with its unique history and flavour profile.