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Apple trades in your gadgets in Reuse and Recycling scheme

Apple is trading in your unwanted gadgets with a new Reuse and Recycling scheme.

Richard Trenholm Former Movie and TV Senior Editor
Richard Trenholm was CNET's film and TV editor, covering the big screen, small screen and streaming. A member of the Film Critic's Circle, he's covered technology and culture from London's tech scene to Europe's refugee camps to the Sundance film festival.
Expertise Films, TV, Movies, Television, Technology
Richard Trenholm
2 min read

Apple is keen on recycling. We're not talking about the iPhone 4S looking exactly like the iPhone 4 -- chortle -- we're talking about the new Reuse and Recycling scheme.

You can trade in an old iPhone, iPad, Mac or iPod -- or any old mobile, Windows laptop or desktop made by another manufacturer -- for cash. Cold hard cash, paid straight into your bank account. Postage is free.

The scheme has been running in the US since 2006. Over here it's run by gadget recyclers Dataserv. Head to Apple's Reuse and Recycling page and enter the details of your unwanted kit. Answer some questions about its condition and Apple will make you an offer.

If trading in a phone, Apple asks whether the phone is liquid damaged or whether the screen is smashed or cracked.

An iPhone 4S in mint condition with the cable included will net you up to £423. But don't get your hopes up too high: an 8GB iPhone 3G even in mint condition will earn you just £6.23. An original iPhone nets you £1.25 -- oh, and the warm glow that comes from saving the environment.

Trade in a computer and Apple asks you about processor speeds, memory capacity, screen size and other details. Not all older tech will earn you cash, but postage is free and it does clear out your junk, leaving you with an environmentally clear conscience.

Even if you're not convinced by recycling's effect on climate change, it declutters your drawer -- and £1.25 buys you a can of Coke and a packet of Munchies. What unwanted recyclable gadgets lurk at the back of your cupboards? And how would you spend £1.25? Recycle your thoughts in the comments or on our Facebook page.