Even though a smartphone is a relatively new piece of technology, nowadays, we are quite fond of their usefulness. We have compact computers in our pockets that are capable of many things – we have an endless source of knowledge stored on the Internet, high-quality cameras to capture beautiful moments and memories, also we are able to keep in touch with people from all around the world, which has never been easier, and the list goes on.
But taking into consideration the fact that technology keeps on advancing and getting better, the usage of a smart device is limited to two years at most. New camera features, faster performances, long-lasting batteries might be some of the reasons you consider getting a brand new phone. However, a new question emerges – what should you do with your old device? In the following text, we will present several ways you can get rid of your old smartphone.
Page Contents
1. Recycle
Source: pandasecurity.com
What you should never do is throw your old phone in the trash. Some people are not aware of how harmful this can be to the environment, and these days we should try to be as environmentally friendly as possible. Yes, we know, this throwing the gadget away is probably your first instinct, but let us tell you why you shouldn’t go with it.
Batteries are the most hazardous materials in all our devices, and typical disposal can be really damaging to our planet because of various types of chemicals they are made from. Another thing to keep in mind is that some parts of our devices are made from rare metals, so by not throwing them away, like any other trash, you would contribute to the preservation of these materials.
What you can do is recycle your gadget. By doing this, you will certainly contribute to decreasing the production of these metals. Manufacturers can recycle them when making a new device, so there won’t be as much electronic waste. Make sure to remove these parts from the device and recycle them separately.
2. Sell its parts
Another smart thing you can do, and also get some money from it, is to sell the phone’s parts. Let’s suppose your it’s battery died, and instead of repairing it, you want to purchase a new device. If its display is still working or if the motherboard is in good condition, you can sell those parts. Not only will you get some money, but you will also help someone who has the same model and whose device is broken. In this way, your gadget will have a new purpose, and you can easily get rid of it. Two birds with one stone! If you want to learn how this works exactly, which parts you can sell, and how much money you can get, visit webuyphones.co.za. Let’s be honest, this is a great way to earn some extra cash, and maybe increase the budget you have for buying a new phone.
3. Repurpose it
Source: cnet.com
If your device is still in fairly good condition, there are numerous ways to repurpose it. When it comes to smartphones, most of us have the habit of throwing them away and purchasing a new one. However, this doesn’t have to be the case. It can be used as a music player, remote control, internet-connected security camera, the list is endless! Not only will you not create any waste, but you will also lengthen its lifespan. Another way to find its new use is to give it to your child or a younger cousin. They will surely find fun ways to use it, even if it is not in perfectly good condition.
4. Donate it
If you are looking for a humane way to get rid of your old smartphone, you should definitely donate it. There are many people who are not fortunate enough and who will appreciate this good deed. You can donate it to charity; they will sell it and raise some money. There are people with special needs whose life is made much easier by modern technologies. You can also donate it to soldiers. Military men and women can use it to call home and keep in touch with their family and friends.
Phones can also be given to organizations who give out phones to people that are not living in safe environments. Elderly or domestic violence victims can use your old device to call 991 at any moment. You can also give your device to organizations that will sell it and use the money to fund healthcare in areas such as Africa and Asia. Money from selling old devices can be used in numerous humane ways, and it is always a good feeling when you do something for your community.
5. Sell it
Source: slickdeals.net
Of course, the first thing that comes to our minds when getting rid of your old smartphone is selling it. If it is still in good condition, you can lengthen its lifespan by selling it and letting somebody else use it. It’s nice when you get some penny, and in addition to that, you can use that money for buying a brand new device.
6. Trade it
There are quite a few ways you can get some money from your old gadget, and another one is trading it. Numerous famous companies offer trade-in programs, where you get a discount on a new device when giving them your old one. Some companies will even let you earn by trading in your old phone. This can be a to-go option for you if you want to shop in a smart way.
Conclusion
We hope we gave you some interesting ideas on how to get rid of your old gadget. There are quite a few ways you can get some money from it, like selling or trading it. But also, there are a few other ways your phone can help someone and be given to people in need. And finally, if it is not working anymore and is useless, you can always recycle it and reduce your environmental footprint.
