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 Alternative Christmas Dinners For Turkey Haters

Turkey may be the traditional centre-piece of Christmas dinners, but it’s not for everyone. Whether you’re looking for something new, accommodating dietary preferences, or simply not a fan of turkey, there are plenty of delicious alternatives. Here are five ideas to inspire a memorable Christmas feast:
Five Brilliant Food Games For All The Family On Christmas Day

Christmas Day is all about family, fun, and feasting. After the big meal, there’s no better way to keep the festive spirit alive than with some food-themed games that everyone can enjoy. From kids to grandparents, these entertaining activities add a playful twist to your holiday celebrations. Here are five brilliant food games to try this Christmas...
Five Most Unique Christmas Dinners Worldwide

Christmas is celebrated worldwide with a dazzling array of traditions, and nothing brings people together quite like a festive meal. From roasted turkeys to sweet treats, each country adds its unique twist to the holiday. Here are five of the most unique Christmas dinners that showcase the diversity of global traditions:
Five Best UK Christmas Attractions To Visit

The festive season is a magical time in the UK, where towns and cities transform into winter wonderlands filled with twinkling lights, festive markets, and enchanting attractions. Whether you're looking for family-friendly fun or a romantic Christmas escape, these five Christmas attractions offer unforgettable experiences:
Five Horror Christmas Films For Adults Only

The holiday season may be synonymous with cheer and goodwill, but for those who enjoy a darker twist to their Christmas festivities, horror films set during this time of year provide the perfect blend of chills and yuletide thrills. Here are five standout horror Christmas films made exclusively for an adult audience. These movies are filled with gore, suspense, and twisted humour—definitely not suitable for children: