Refurbished Smartphones Market Booms Amid Price and Sustainability

ISLAMABAD: (Web Desk) – The market for refurbished smartphones has grown rapidly in recent years, driven by lower prices and increased interest in eco-friendly consumption, even as some buyers still fear purchasing a defective device. The success of refurbished phones highlights that flashy new gadgets, showcased this week at Barcelona’s Mobile World Congress, are not the only growth engine in the sector.

A 2025 survey by marketplace Recommerce and pollsters Kantar found that 46 percent of Europeans have already purchased a second-hand device. However, uptake varies globally: mature markets in Europe and parts of North America see higher adoption, while many emerging markets remain largely dependent on new devices, according to analysis firm Mordor Intelligence, which estimates the global second-hand phone market at 10 percent of annual smartphone sales.

Price continues to be the main factor driving sales, with refurbished models often costing half as much as brand-new alternatives. “It gives citizens and consumers yet another reason to not go out and buy a product that’s too expensive,” said Thibaud Hug de Larauze, co-founder of refurbished marketplace Back Market. Environmental concerns also play a role: a refurbished phone can have up to 87 percent lower climate impact compared to a new device, according to Steven Moore, head of climate action at the GSMA.

Punjab bans mobile use, urges doctors to prioritise patient care in hospitals

Despite growth, consumer skepticism remains, with fears of devices breaking early. Refurbishing companies are addressing this through quality transparency, warranties, and premium devices with new batteries, now accounting for roughly 20 percent of Back Market’s sales. Warranties and standardization are considered crucial to building trust, said Claire Gillies, head of BT Group’s consumer division.

Forecast to reach around $70 billion in 2026, the refurbished smartphone market is expected to hit $100 billion in five years. However, global trade and geopolitical tensions could slow growth, Moore added.