It feels good to get the latest and greatest smartphone on the market finally. So, what should you do with the old one? Not only is it a waste of space to keep your old phones in a box or drawer, but it’s also a waste of potential. Unless you’re upgrading from a feature phone, chances are your old mobile device can still be used for something — or by someone else.
Dispose of It Properly
If you’re not a fan of reusing your gadgets, that’s fine! You can still use your phone to help make hazardous waste collectors’ jobs easier by disposing of it properly.
Make sure to backup your data and remove any SIM and memory cards because you need to wipe out your personal data from your phone. Delete your data from your phone by returning it to its factory settings. For Android devices, go to Settings > System > Advanced > Reset > Erase all data (factory reset). For Apple devices, you have to connect it to a computer with iTunes installed then click on “Restore iPhone.”
Once you’ve removed all personal information from your phone, ask your local sanitation agency in Utah where to dispose of it. You can go to your phone carrier to return your device, too. If the phone’s not too old, they can refurbish and resell it. If it’s worse for wear, some of its parts can be recycled.
Donate It to People in Need
Nowadays, having a phone is a necessity. However, not everyone can afford one. If you’re in a giving mood, consider donating your phone to organizations like Secure The Call. They are a nonprofit organization that collects phones for senior citizens to use in case of emergency. Another cause you can send your old phone to is Cellphones For Soldiers. As their name suggests, they provide free phones to active-duty military personnel and veterans so these people can call home and speak with their family.
Sell it for a Quick Buck
Remember reading about your carrier possibly reselling your device? You can do the same thing and earn yourself some extra cash. Start by wiping any personal data from your phone (which you probably know how to do by now). Once your device is clear, post it on Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist. Be sure to post it on social media as well. You’ll never know if any of your friends might be in search of a pre-owned phone. In relation to this, be careful about meeting people online. Make sure to meet your buyer in a public area like a cafe, just to be safe.
Use It as a Media Remote
What’s great about having a smartphone these days is that you can use it as a remote control for your other devices. If you have a Smart TV, you can use your android phone as a remote with the Android TV Remote Control app. It’s as easy as connecting both devices to the same Wi-Fi router, running the app, and pairing the devices. The same goes for the Apple TV and the iPhone. This is great if you lost your actual remote or you want a cool and futuristic way to control your media center.
Your old phone can be recycled and repurposed for other uses. The old saying, “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure,” rings true. When all else fails, you can still use your phone for your own benefit. It doesn’t hurt to have a backup device, after all.
