What Apple’s Higher Trade-In Values Mean for You
Apple trade-in values are the estimated amounts Apple credits toward a new purchase when you hand in an eligible device, and understanding these updated figures helps buyers cut the real cost of upgrading by turning old hardware into predictable, upfront savings. In late May, Apple increased trade-in estimates for newer iPhones, current iPad models, and select Apple Watch and Mac devices, making recent hardware noticeably more valuable at the checkout. According to Smartprix, all four iPhone 16 models and every current iPad now attract higher trade-in values, while some Macs and Apple Watches also see meaningful adjustments. PCMag reports that these boosts range from USD 5 (approx. RM25) to USD 35 (approx. RM160), depending on the product. For anyone planning a device upgrade soon, these changes make timing and model choice more important than ever.
iPhone and iPad Trade-In Gains: Where Increases Are Largest
Apple’s newest phones take center stage in the latest iPhone trade-in value update. The standard iPhone 16 gains the biggest bump at USD 25 (approx. RM115), rising from a maximum of USD 435 (approx. RM2,000) to USD 460 (approx. RM2,100). The iPhone 16 Pro Max, 16 Pro, and 16 Plus each increase by USD 10 (approx. RM45), to maximum values of USD 695 (approx. RM3,200), USD 560 (approx. RM2,600), and USD 465 (approx. RM2,150) respectively. Even older iPhone 8 and 8 Plus units still qualify, at USD 35 (approx. RM160) and USD 45 (approx. RM205). iPad trade-in worth is also improving across the board: the iPad Pro climbs from USD 670 (approx. RM3,100) to USD 690 (approx. RM3,200), while the iPad Air, iPad, and iPad mini each gain USD 15 (approx. RM70).
Mac and Apple Watch Trade-In Increases and Exceptions
On the Mac side, the latest Mac trade-in increase focuses on popular consumer models. PCMag notes that the MacBook Air’s maximum trade-in value rises from USD 485 (approx. RM2,250) to USD 520 (approx. RM2,400), while the Mac mini jumps from USD 340 (approx. RM1,580) to USD 375 (approx. RM1,740). The MacBook Pro nudges up from USD 685 (approx. RM3,190) to USD 690 (approx. RM3,220), and Smartprix reports that the Mac Studio gains USD 70 (approx. RM325). Not every device benefits, though: Smartprix also highlights that the Mac Pro’s trade-in estimate drops by USD 45 (approx. RM210). For wearables, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Series 9 each gain USD 10 (approx. RM45), to USD 305 (approx. RM1,420) and USD 130 (approx. RM605). However, the original Apple Watch Ultra sees its value reduced by USD 10 (approx. RM45).
How to Maximize Device Upgrade Savings with Apple Trade-Ins
To get the most out of Apple trade-in values, start by checking the maximum estimates on Apple’s trade-in landing page, then be realistic about your device’s condition. The figures quoted by Smartprix and PCMag are top-end amounts, and any wear, damage, or missing accessories can lower your final offer. Back up your data, unpair accessories like Apple Watch, and remove cases or stickers so staff can inspect the device properly. If you own a MacBook Air or Mac mini, the recent jumps—especially the move from USD 485 (approx. RM2,250) to USD 520 (approx. RM2,400) on MacBook Air and from USD 340 (approx. RM1,580) to USD 375 (approx. RM1,740) on Mac mini—make trading in before values change again a smart play. Compare Apple’s offer with third-party resellers, but remember that instant credit at the point of sale can be more convenient and predictable.
