Second-hand devices

Second-hand devices: trends, insights and implications in a burgeoning market

With shipments of new smartphones showing annual declines over the past 10 years, and now reaching only half of what they were in 2014, the importance of the second-hand device market is growing, driven by shifts in consumer behaviour and evolving company strategies. This trend has vast implications for the sustainability of the tech industry, the profitability of mobile device manufacturers, and consumers’ access to devices. It also affects supply chain strategies, repair and refurbishment markets, and the overall life cycle management of electronic products.

CCS Insight’s second-hand devices research

Our research tracks the organized secondary market at a model level, covering more than 30 countries and focusing on model-specific tracking, pricing analysis, market sizing and sales performance.

We combine data from interviews with industry executives, consumer research conducted four times a year, and comprehensive data feeds from trusted partners. This approach allows us to provide quarterly trend reports that analyze data shifts, model-level movements and forecasts of future market behaviour.

Key emerging trends

• The new law mandating USB-C chargers in the EU comes into effect soon, and is expected to have a significant impact on the second-hand device market by influencing device compatibility and trade-in options.
• Companies are implementing different strategies to enhance the value and appeal of their devices in the secondary market, with some emphasizing long-term investment potential and others offering extended warranties to support residual value.
• Companies are developing new propositions and structures aimed at increasing the return rate of devices, enhancing the supply of second-hand devices and creating more opportunities in the resale market.

Areas covered

• Smartphones
• Smartwatches
• Tablets

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