Used smartphones to outpace new devices in 2025, IDC says

The research firm cited extended upgrade cycles and rising trade-in volumes.

Global shipments of used smartphones will likely grow by 3.2% year on year in 2025, outpacing the 1% rise projected for new devices, IDC said in a recent report.

The firm attributed the shift to longer replacement cycles and slower innovation in new models, which have reduced consumer urgency to upgrade. 

Expanding trade-in and buyback programmes are also fuelling supply in the secondary market, particularly in North America, Western Europe, and China.

IDC forecasts used smartphone shipments to rise by 5.8% in 2026 and 4.9% by 2029, compared with an annual 1.4% increase for new handsets.

The widening gap signals a lasting structural change as refurbished devices gain wider acceptance among consumers and operators.

Manufacturers and mobile carriers are adjusting their business models to capture value from resale and refurbishment, IDC reported.