Motorola spells out trade up program for Jelly Bean devices

Motorola has officially outlined the details for its Trade Up Program which gives previous buyers a $100 credit for select smartphones. The initiative, first announced in September, is designed to keep consumers from switching handset makers over the lack of Android updates.

As it turns out, the program amounts to a mail-in rebate of $100 which is issued once Motorola receives your previous device. The list of phones eligible for trade-in is a baker's dozen of models spread across multiple carriers and you must choose from one of six specified models for your next handset. 

Should you opt for one of the Verizon models, you will have to go into a retail store and buy the device with a two-year service agreement. You'll also be required to hand over your previous handset in exchange for a $100 Verizon gift card which can then be used on future wireless bills or purchases through the carrier's website.

As for the other new models offered through the Trade Up program, Motorola indicates that it could take 6-8 weeks to receive the $100 Motorola Visa Prepaid Card. That is, of course, provided you send in the mail-in form, and valid proof-of-purchase within 30 days of picking up your new phone. Goof that up and I fear your rebate will be delayed or reset.

All things considered, it's likely one could get more money from other options such as eBay, Craigslist, or Swappa. And, after reading the finer details, I suspect many might prefer the immediacy of an online auction.