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Released in 2025, the iPhone 16e provides an affordable entry point into the iPhone 16 lineup, a spiritual successor to the iPhone SE (3rd generation). Driven by a fast and efficient A17 processor, and sporting and excellent camera array, the device is built for those seeking a classic iPhone experience in a small, less expensive package. and value for those seeking a capable smartphone with the core Apple experience.
As great as the iPhone 16e is, you may be feeling some FOMO over the new phones coming out, whether it be the iPhone 17, the Samsung Galaxy S26, or the Google Pixel 10. Good news: since your phone is still relatively new, the cell phone carriers will pay good money for it if you decide to trade it in for a different model. This includes major carriers Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile, as well as a variety of smaller prepaid brands.
Market Based Trade-In | Carrier Trade-in Promo | |
---|---|---|
PAYOUT TYPE | Cash, PayPal or Store Credit | Monthly bill credits or account credit |
CONDITIONS | Based on phone’s fair market value | Must buy a new phone or switch plans |
TYPICAL VALUE | Lower (e.g. $100-300 for older models) | Higher (e.g. up to $1000, with strings) |
FLEXIBILITY | No obligation to switch or upgrade | Must commit to contract or installment |
TRANSPARENCY | Straightforward cash deal | Promotional value applied over 24-36 mos. |
Trading in your phone for a new one is as easy as one-two-three. Whether you’re trading in an Apple iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, or another kind of Android device, rest assured that there’s a trade-in program for you.
Calculating your phone’s value will help you determine its eligibility for various trade-in offers. Navi’s trade-in value calculator on this page can give you a ballpark of what your phone is worth to get started. Ultimately, you’ll also need to assess your device condition and have your IMEI number on hand, as all of these factors impact the value of your trade-in credit.
Once you’ve gotten a ballpark estimate of your phone’s trade-in value, the fun part begins: choosing the trade-in promotion that suits you best. Most phone trade-in deals provide bill credits spread out over 24 or 36 months. These credits are applied to your monthly bill, lowering the cost of a new phone over the installment period.
Now that you’ve calculated your phone’s value and chosen a trade-in offer, it’s time to prepare your device. First, you’ll want to perform a factory reset of your phone. Next—assuming you’re mailing your device in as opposed to doing an in-store drop-off—you’ll need to prepare your phone for shipment. Print the shipping label, box your phone up, and send it off. You’ll have your new phone in no time.
In order to trade-in your phone for a new device, it has to meet certain requirements. These tend to be the same regardless of which carrier, third-party reseller, or retailer you go with. They include:
You must own your phone outright in order to get the max trade-on value for it.
While requirements can vary, generally speaking your phone should power on and hold a charge, have a crack-free, functioning screen, and be free of water damage.
Make sure to erase your personal data and reset your phone to factory settings before trading it in.
While many programs accept phones with slight cosmetic wear, just be aware that it may reduce its trade-in value. Major physical damage (cracked screen, missing buttons, bent chassis) may disqualify it or lower the offer.
The device you plan on trading in must be a model that the trade-in program accepts. Older models may not qualify.
While trade-in offers generally require the above, carriers occasionally run Any Phone, Any Condition promotions which waive many of the aforementioned requirements.
In order to trade in your device, you’ll need to provide its IMEI number. There are a few ways to do this.
The IMEI number will be displayed on screen.
The IMEI code may be printed on the tray.
The IMEI number should be on a sticker attached to it.
Yes, trading in your iPhone 16e now will capture its high initial trade-in value if you are upgrading. Waiting will gradually decrease its trade-in price.
Cosmetic damage may lower your trade-in value, but the device can still qualify for credit if it powers on and functions properly.
If you plan to upgrade, trading in will help offset your new phone’s cost. If it is still in good condition, it can serve as a reliable backup device.
Yes, trading in your iPhone 16e now will capture its high initial trade-in value if you are upgrading. Waiting will gradually decrease its trade-in price.
Cosmetic damage may lower your trade-in value, but the device can still qualify for credit if it powers on and functions properly.
If you plan to upgrade, trading in will help offset your new phone’s cost. If it is still in good condition, it can serve as a reliable backup device.
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