Apple will today expand its trade-in program to offer better pricing for devices with minor cosmetic defects, the company is understood to be implementing. The change introduces more granular valuations intended to reflect a device’s actual condition, and customers will apparently not receive less for their device under the new system.
How the trade-in pricing will change
Under Apple’s current trade-in system, cosmetic issues such as small chips in the display glass have generally been treated the same way as far more serious damage, such as a cracked or smashed screen, producing a similarly steep cut to a device’s trade-in value. The update rolling out today will create finer pricing tiers so minor cosmetic defects are assessed differently from major damage.
Availability and timing
The update is expected to take effect once Apple’s trade-in website comes back online today. The change is said to apply in the vast majority of countries where Apple’s trade-in program is offered, with only a small number of markets excluded.
Recent context
Apple last adjusted its trade-in values in August, when it raised pricing across the iPhone, iPad, Mac and Apple Watch lineups. It is unclear whether today’s change will coincide with a broader refresh of those values.
