BARCELONA, March 9, 2026 (The Capital Post) — The global market for second-hand smartphones is expanding as consumers increasingly turn to refurbished devices due to lower prices and rising environmental awareness.
Industry observers say the surge reflects a broader shift towards more sustainable consumption, with buyers seeking to extend the life cycle of electronic products and reduce electronic waste.
A 2025 survey commissioned by refurbished technology marketplace Recommerce found that about 46% of Europeans have already purchased a second-hand smartphone.
Market analysts estimate that refurbished devices now account for roughly 10% of global smartphone purchases each year, although adoption rates vary across regions.
In many developed markets such as Europe and parts of North America, consumers are increasingly embracing circular-economy principles by reusing devices rather than purchasing new ones.
Price remains the main driver of demand. Refurbished smartphones can cost significantly less than brand-new models, sometimes as much as half the price, making them attractive to consumers affected by rising living costs and inflation.
Thibaud Hug de Larauze, co-founder of refurbished electronics marketplace Back Market, said the trend is also linked to growing awareness about sustainability and responsible consumption.
Environmental considerations are also playing a role, as producing new smartphones requires raw materials and energy. According to the mobile industry group GSMA, a refurbished phone can have up to 87% lower climate impact compared with a newly manufactured device.
Despite the growing popularity of refurbished phones, the global smartphone market continues to be dominated by new devices produced by major technology companies.—The Capital Post