KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The iPhone 11 launched just four months ago, but rumors already are beginning to fly about the next models.
CNET reported that Apple could launch five new iPhones in 2020.
When those come out, consumers might be tempted to trade in old phones. But there are opportunities to cash in on the device instead.
"We estimate you can make about twice as much if you go ahead and sell it yourself rather than turn it back into the carrier," said Sara Beane, a media relations specialist for Swappa.
Swappa is a Kansas City-based, online marketplace for phones, laptops and other technology.
The 41 Action News Investigators checked the math to see how much money can be made selling an old phone instead of trading it in.
Here's what was discovered for an iPhone 8:
- Verizon: Estimated trade-in value is $143.
- Sprint: Estimated trade-in value is $140 to $170, depending on the size.
- Apple: Trade-in value up to $220.
- Swappa: Sale price ranges from $230 to $620, depending on size and condition. The average price sold for an iPhone 8, 64 GB is $294.
Swappa only accepts phones in good condition, but other sites will take devices with damage.
Regardless of where consumers list their phone, there are a few steps to take before handing it over.
Run an IMEI Check
"That is a 15-digit number that is exclusive to your phone, and you can find it under settings," Beane said.
The site has a free search tool on its website to enter the IMEI number and verify the phone has never been reported lost or stolen.
Check on Financing
Many carriers offer plans that allow customers to pay for a phone over a period of time. Before listing a phone, call the carrier to make sure it's paid off.
Erase Personal Data
Make sure personal data is backed up first, then take the following steps:
- Remove the SIM card
- Remove your Google or iCloud account
- Complete a factory data reset
Meet Buyer in a Safe Place
When meeting a buyer in person, do it in a safe, public place.
KCPD recently warned that multiple victims selling phones off Facebook Marketplace reported being robbed in and around Swope Park.
The department has internet exchange zones at all of its stations.
