Apple has officially launched a Chinese version of its iPhone and iPad trade-in program. The program allows a user to bring their old Apple device into the Apple Store, and receive trade-in credit via an Apple gift card, to be used toward the purchase of a new iPhone or iPad.
… the program will most likely not allow a customer to trade in an iPhone toward the purchase of an Apple Watch. But as contrasted with the U.S., France, United Kingdom, Germany, Canada and Italy, the new China program is limited to iPhones and iPads, and will not support non-Apple smartphones.
The new plan includes devices purchased on the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan.
Apple will sell the phones turned in via the program directly to manufacturing partner Foxconn, which will repair, and then sell the phones on secondary markets. Apple partners with Brightstar for its trade-in recycling program in the United States and other countries.
News of the Chinese trade-in program was first reported by Bloomberg last week, who noted that the program would be limited to iPhones. Now, it appears the program will also include iPads.
Apple spokeswoman Kitty Potter told the South China Morning Post (via AppleInsider) on Tuesday that the program is now active across China.
“Apple retail stores in China are launching a new program to assist customers who wish to bring in their previous-generation iPhone or iPad for recycling,” Potter said. “In addition to helping the environment, customers will be able to receive a credit for their returned iPhone or iPad that they can use toward the purchase of a new [device].”
