Tip: check two providers the same day. Prices can vary by £20–£80 for the same device based on storage, battery health and colour popularity.

Apple’s route is the most straightforward for SIM-free upgrades or anyone staying inside the Apple Store ecosystem. You’ll get a quote online, mail your device (or hand it in at a store) and receive either money off your new iPhone at checkout or an Apple Gift Card to use later. Typical headline ranges seen around launches span from tens of pounds for older models to several hundred for recent Pro models.

Why choose Apple

• Instant in-store credit when stock aligns—handy during launch weeks.
• Gift Card option if you’re not buying the new iPhone on the same day.
• Clear assessment criteria—Activation Lock off, battery and screen checks.

O2 typically folds trade-in into your monthly plan as a bill credit or applies a discount at checkout on the latest iPhone. That can be the simplest way to lower the monthly price if you’re already moving to an O2 contract.

Good to know

• Bill credit shows on the next statement or reduces upfront fees.
• Quotes assume accurate condition; mis-grading leads to re-quotes.
• Look for launch promos that bump values for limited periods.

EE’s recycling programme credits your account after the phone passes inspection, and upgrade promotions often stack with plan discounts. It’s convenient for existing EE customers who want the cost to flow through their bill.

• Account credit after checks (often visible on the next bill).
• Bundled incentives sometimes tie to specific iPhone plans.
• Free returns if you decline a revised offer.

Vodafone usually applies trade-in as bill credit or reduces the upfront cost of your new iPhone. If you’re taking a Vodafone plan, it’s a good single-journey experience—quote, post or store-drop, and credit against the plan.

• Upfront discount or bill credit depending on the offer route.
• Device checks cover display, battery and water indicators.
• Watch for limited-time top-ups around new iPhone launches.

Three’s trade-in typically credits your bill or, via partners, can pay a bank transfer after inspection. If you’re moving to a new Three plan, the integrated discount is the easiest route.

• Bill credit for plan upgrades; partner routes may offer bank transfer.
• Standard grading—be accurate to avoid revised offers.
• Keep an eye out for launch weekends with boosted values.

Very sometimes runs iPhone promos where an old device can be used against a new purchase—usually as voucher or instant discount. Terms are promo-specific, so read the small print on payout method and timing.

giffgaff’s guides point you to reputable recycling partners. You’ll typically get a bank transfer after inspection—good for buyers who want cash up-front and plan to purchase SIM-free elsewhere.

• Battery health matters: if it’s close to 80%, expect a lower grade (Settings ▸ Battery ▸ Battery Health).
• Remove Activation Lock (Settings ▸ Apple ID ▸ Find My ▸ Find My iPhone ▸ Off) and sign out of iCloud before sending.
• Factory reset and clean the device; include the box and cable if you have them.
• Photograph the phone (front/back powered on) before shipping for dispute protection.
• Lock in a quote only after comparing at least two providers the same day.

All offers depend on provider terms, device condition and market demand. Read the current promo details on the provider’s site before posting your phone.

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