Refurbs & rising prices: iPhones lead India’s pre-owned phone market as buyers skip new mid-range devices

In India, the perception of second-hand smartphones is undergoing a significant transformation. Traditionally viewed as devices passed within families or kept as backups, these gadgets are now being actively traded as consumers seek to maximize the value from older models. The country’s pre-owned smartphone market is rapidly evolving, with a notable shift towards more structured buying and selling practices among consumers. According to a spokesperson from Flipkart, pre-owned smartphones currently represent about 20% of India's total smartphone sales, a segment that is expanding at a rate quicker than that of new devices. "India has historically been a hand-me-down market, which kept the resale sector relatively subdued. However, this is changing with the introduction of OEM-led trade-in programs, multi-brand exchange platforms, and certified refurbishment processes that enhance both supply and quality standards," they stated. When it comes to the refurbished smartphone landscape, Apple’s iPhones are clearly in the lead. Data from Cashify’s whitepaper for 2025 indicates that iPhones captured a staggering 64.5% of the refurbished market in the first half of the year. This dominance is attributed to strong brand loyalty, extended software support, and standardized repair processes. Nakul Kumar, the co-founder of Cashify, emphasized that the resale market for iPhones in India is robust, stating, "In the buyback market, resale value hinges more on demand than on specifications. Devices like iPhones maintain their value due to brand trust, prolonged software support, and consistent demand in the secondary market." This trend is particularly evident in the price range of ₹15,000 to ₹30,000, where consumers are choosing refurbished iPhone models such as the iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max over new mid-range Android options. While Apple leads the charge, the Android resale market remains more diverse. Samsung holds the highest resale values within the Android segment, especially in the premium and upper mid-range categories. Data from Cashify shows that OnePlus accounted for 10.2% of refurbished smartphone sales in the first half of 2025, with Xiaomi following closely behind at 9.9% in 2024 and 9.7% in early 2025, largely due to its presence in budget and mid-range offerings. However, Xiaomi devices often see quicker depreciation due to frequent model releases and a saturated secondary market. The spokesperson from Flipkart noted, "The Android resale ecosystem is still maturing, reflecting a broader array of models and varying levels of after-sales support. We anticipate that this will strengthen as more participants enter the ecosystem." With the rising costs of new smartphones, refurbished options are becoming a compelling choice for consumers looking to access premium devices at more affordable prices. Kumar added that the launch of new flagship phones, such as the upcoming iPhone 17, typically serves as a reset for the resale market, lowering prices on older models and creating new opportunities for buyers.