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Apple to offer trade-in service for iPhones, says report

The tech giant is said to be developing a trade-in program for iPhones at its stores.

Josh Lowensohn Former Senior Writer
Josh Lowensohn joined CNET in 2006 and now covers Apple. Before that, Josh wrote about everything from new Web start-ups, to remote-controlled robots that watch your house. Prior to joining CNET, Josh covered breaking video game news, as well as reviewing game software. His current console favorite is the Xbox 360.
Josh Lowensohn
Mikhail Vorobyev, one of the early customers to buy an iPhone 5 at Apple's store in Paris, shows off his new purchase.
Mikhail Vorobyev, one of the early customers to buy an iPhone 5 at Apple's store in Paris, shows off his new purchase at launch. Stephen Shankland/CNET

Apple is reportedly partnering with an outside company to offer a new trade-in service for iPhones at its retail stores, a program that remains unannounced.

Citing sources, Bloomberg says Apple is working with Brightstar, a Miami-based company that manages trade-ins and logistical efforts for other companies.

The rumored program would let consumers bring in their used iPhones for a discount on newer models, and potentially for credit on other items in Apple's stores.

Apple did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Such a program would not be a first for the company. Apple already offers a recycling arrangement that gives users either an Apple gift card, or -- in the case of iPods and iPhones -- a 10 percent discount on a future purchase. The company's current partnership (which began in late 2011) is with PowerOn, a company that's offered users up to $345 for top-of-the-line iPhones. It's not yet clear how this newer service would differ.


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