What Apple’s Updated Trade-In Program Means for Your Next Upgrade
Apple’s updated trade-in program is a scheme where you hand in eligible iPhones, iPads, Macs and Apple Watches in good condition and receive a credit, which Apple has recently increased for many models, to reduce the effective purchase price of a new device such as the iPhone 17 Pro Max. Apple has raised the maximum iPhone trade-in value for several recent models, though the exact payout still depends on configuration and condition. Newer devices remain worth more than older ones, but the headline is simple: more credit for many Apple products, especially recent Pro iPhones, MacBooks and some desktops. At the same time, a few items, like the second‑generation iPhone SE and some older Macs and watches, have seen lower estimates. Understanding these updated ranges helps you decide whether upgrading now will deliver a better deal on your next iPhone.
Which iPhones Get Higher Trade-In Payouts Now?
If you plan to upgrade iPhone models, the latest changes to the Apple trade-in program make recent Pro devices more attractive. Apple now offers up to USD 490 (approx. RM2,250) for the iPhone 15 Pro Max, an increase of USD 25 (approx. RM115). The iPhone 15 Pro tops out at USD 410 (approx. RM1,880), up USD 35 (approx. RM160), while the iPhone 14 Pro Max reaches USD 375 (approx. RM1,720), up USD 25 (approx. RM115). “The Pro models of the iPhone 13, 14 and 15 received the largest percentage adjustments of all the phones.” Even mid‑tier and budget options benefit: the iPhone 16 now reaches USD 460 (approx. RM2,110), up USD 25 (approx. RM115), and the iPhone SE 3rd generation tops out at USD 80 (approx. RM370), up USD 5 (approx. RM25). These higher ceilings can significantly cut the effective cost of moving to an iPhone 17 Pro Max.
Don’t Forget iPads, Macs and Apple Watches
The trade-in payout increase is not limited to phones. Apple boosted estimates across multiple categories, turning old gear into meaningful credit toward an iPhone 17 Pro Max or another device. For laptops, MacBook Air trade-ins now go up to USD 520 (approx. RM2,390), an increase of USD 35 (approx. RM160). On the desktop side, Mac Mini tops out at USD 375 (approx. RM1,720), also up USD 35 (approx. RM160), while Mac Studio can reach USD 1,045 (approx. RM4,800), a USD 70 (approx. RM320) boost. Every iPad line has higher maximums, with iPad models up to USD 235 (approx. RM1,080) and iPad mini up to USD 265 (approx. RM1,220). Apple Watch owners benefit too: Watch SE 2nd generation is now up to USD 60 (approx. RM280), Watch Ultra 2 up to USD 305 (approx. RM1,400), and Watch Series 9 up to USD 130 (approx. RM600).
How to Maximize iPhone Trade-In Value When Upgrading
To get the best iPhone trade-in value, think like a refurbisher. Back up and wipe your device, remove screen protectors and cases, and include original accessories if you still have them. Apple’s estimates assume the phone powers on, has a functional display and no serious damage; any issues can push your payout below the listed maximum. Timing matters too. Apple updated these values ahead of its WWDC event, which often lines up with new software and sometimes new hardware. That makes now a strong moment to lock in a higher quote if you’re eyeing an iPhone 17 Pro Max. Remember that some older models, such as the original Watch Ultra or iMac Pro, have seen reductions, so holding on longer may shrink your credit. Review Apple’s online quote tool, compare categories and decide which combination of devices will give you the biggest total trade-in credit.
