Insights from our product owner Johan Carlsson

The market for used mobile phones is growing rapidly. More consumers and businesses are choosing refurbished technology to save money, reduce their environmental impact and extend the life of their electronics. But despite the market's maturity, there are still many misconceptions about how the industry works and the perception of used technology. 

We sat down with our Product Owner Johan Carlsson to answer some of the most common questions we encounter. 

How are used mobile phones purchased?

Many people imagine that used mobile phones are purchased individually from private individuals. In reality, the purchasing process is much more complex than that. Mobile phones are purchased from several different sources:

• Trade-in programs with operators and manufacturers, for example via Telenor.

• Companies that replace their mobile phones in larger volumes

• Leasing and insurance returns

• Direct purchases from consumers

Each device then undergoes checks of IMEI number, theft status, technical functionality and condition before it can be resold.

Why are some models often out of stock?

Unlike newly manufactured products, used devices cannot be ordered in unlimited volumes. The availability of devices is determined by the market. When new models are launched, the influx of older models often increases. Corporate upgrades are done in batches and many individuals also keep their old phones at home instead of selling them on. This means that some models can be difficult to obtain during periods of high demand. 

The most common misconception about used mobile phones

One of the most common misconceptions is that used mobile phones are worn out, unreliable and have poor battery life. This perception partly comes from a time when the market lacked clear standards. Today, serious refurbishers work with extensive testing, clear grading systems and quality controls that ensure that the products are of a consistent standard. Here you can read more about how we at reNewed grade and the different conditions.

Why is grading so important?

Grading is one of the most important parts of the entire process. To be able to assess a unit correctly, you need, among other things:

• Hardware diagnostics

• Battery health check

• Cosmetic condition assessment

• IMEI and blacklist checks

• Testing of functions and sensors

Incorrect grading can lead to returns, unhappy customers and in some cases legal issues, which is why grading is a core competency in the refurbished industry.

How is the price of a used mobile phone determined?

Pricing is about much more than just model and storage capacity. The price takes into account both the outside and the inside. Several factors affect the final price:

• Model and configuration

• Battery health

• Grading and condition

• Supply and demand

• Market development

• Seasonal variations

Prices for used technology are adjusted continuously and the market functions in many ways more like a trading market than traditional retail.

What should you consider before buying used technology?

Whether you are a private individual or a company, there are some important things to check:

• Certificate

• Battery health

• Clear grading criteria

• That the device is adapted for the Swedish market

• That the seller has control over their refurb process

A serious player should be able to be transparent about both process and quality.

The future of refurbished

In recent years, the refurbished market has grown significantly. At the same time, the difference between new generations of mobile phones has become smaller, which means that more people see the value in buying used. Refurbished is no longer an option for a few price-conscious and environmentally conscious consumers. It is becoming an established part of the technology market and how we consume technology.