The Shift Toward Secondhand Tech: A New Era of Gadget Consumption

As the excitement of smartphone launches wanes, a notable trend emerges: consumers are increasingly gravitating towards used and refurbished devices. Tech enthusiasts like Andrew Erickson, who once camped out for the latest iPhone, now find themselves disenchanted with the incremental updates offered by new models. Instead of rushing to secure the forthcoming iPhone 18 Pro, Erickson plans to hunt for a discounted iPhone 17 Pro once it becomes available on the secondhand market.

This shift is echoed across the globe, where the secondhand electronics market is projected to soar to $153.4 billion this year, a substantial increase from $104.1 billion four years ago. Research from the International Data Corporation highlights a remarkable trend: the used smartphone sector alone is set to see growth exceeding 12 percent by 2026, while the new smartphone market faces an unprecedented downturn.

Consumer sentiment reflects a growing reluctance to invest in new devices. Many shoppers now perceive little difference between the latest models and their predecessors, leading to a more discerning upgrade cycle. Lauren Benton, general manager of Back Market, a refurbished electronics marketplace, noted that demand surged following Apple's recent price hikes. Order values for refurbished MacBooks increased by 37 percent, while iPads saw a 25 percent rise in the same timeframe. These trends indicate that consumers are seeking value over novelty.

Once characterized by regular upgrades, the tech landscape has shifted dramatically. In the 2010s, Apple set the pace, releasing new iPhones annually and generating long lines at stores. However, that fervor has diminished, with many users opting to keep their devices for three years or more. A Bank of America analyst, Wamsi Mohan, pointed out that consumers are now less inclined to buy new phones unless their current ones are damaged or lost, with a staggering 76 percent resisting upgrades until new features justify the expense.

The rising prices of new technology are further influencing buying behavior. Major brands like Samsung and Sony have raised their prices by approximately $100 this year, and Apple has increased MacBook and iPad prices by 15 to 25 percent. A survey of Apple enthusiasts revealed that 38 percent plan to upgrade less frequently due to these escalating costs.

In an era of economic uncertainty, more consumers are turning to refurbished devices as a practical alternative. Google searches for secondhand laptops have skyrocketed by over 5,000 percent in the last year. A recent CNET survey found that nearly half of U.S. adults considered purchasing refurbished tech, primarily due to cost concerns and the high prices of new models. Angie Cardona-Nelson, who sells refurbished electronics on eBay, has witnessed her laptop sales more than double since early 2025, a clear sign of shifting consumer confidence.

Retailers like PayMore have also reported a significant uptick in sales, especially following Apple's price hikes. The company anticipates expanding its operations to meet the burgeoning demand for used electronics. This trend signals a more practical, less consumerist approach to technology consumption, as buyers prioritize deals over the latest features. Yet, as demand for used devices rises, so too may their prices, leaving consumers to wonder if this shift will truly lead to more affordable tech options.

Source: www.theatlantic.com