Factory Reset

There are other things to do next, particularly if you’re running Android Marshmallow or newer on your old phone. In that same menu, turn off any screen lock you might have. And then, go to Accounts under Settings, and remove every listed account. That will ensure that the next person who sets up your phone. Has no issues with the Factory Reset Protection function introduced in Marshmallow. Finally, it’s time for the factory reset. While any Android operating system updates you’ve applied remain intact. The phone will otherwise act like it’s just been pulled out of the box for the first time. It’ll be a blank slate again, ready for its following user’s accounts data. To finish the job, go to Backup & Reset under the personal tab in Settings and select Factory data reset. Once the process is complete, the phone’s software will be new.

What’s It Worth?

If your phone still works well and is relatively recent or desirable, you might consider selling it. Secondhand devices can fetch a decent amount of money. Mainly since off-contract flagship phones sell brand-new for hundreds of dollars or more. When considering this route, the main question is this: What’s more important, the money or convenience? Suppose you want to make the most cash. In that case, you’ll probably do so by listing your phone on Craigslist, eBay, or Facebook’s Marketplace section, trying to find a direct buyer. This could take some time, effort, and communication. There’s always the potential for fraud, but that extra hassle could bring extra money by cutting out a mediator.

Trade It

Meanwhile, if you’re looking to trade in your old phone for a newer one. Meaning you didn’t get a new one just yet, then you have local options. Many carrier stores take trade-ins towards new phones and often have promotional offers, as do retail chains like Best Buy. Again, compare offers if you can rather than jumping at the first one you find. You could also try selling to EcoATM, which has automated machines at malls that offer cash on the spot for your phone. They also may provide money for broken phones, which isn’t always the case elsewhere. So you might be able to pick up a few bucks for your wonky handset. However, the payment prices seem much lower. The website says that an unlocked Galaxy Note 5 would only snag you $75. But at least you’d get it that day.

Consider Passing It On

Suppose you’re feeling particularly benevolent or don’t think you can score much money for your old phone. In that case, you can always donate the phone to a charity. Here are a few good options to consider. However, you might also see if you can donate a device to a local organization in your own community. Verizon’s own Hopeline collects phone accessories from all carriers. Refurbishes them, redistributes them to survivors of domestic abuse, or sells them to raise funds for the exact cause. Hopeline has collected more than 12 million phones since 2001. On the other hand, hopephones unrelated take the money earned from selling your gadgets and put it towards purchasing phones for healthcare workers in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.

Cellphones for Soldiers uses money earned from selling donated phones to buy phone talk time for active U.S. military members. And to provide emergency funds for veterans who struggle once they get home. The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence also takes phone donations, laptops, game consoles, and other old gadgets. If any of those causes speaks to you. Check the site, and see if your unneeded device can help them out. All four of those charities take broken phones. You can ship phones in any condition to them via the contact information listed on each website. Hopeline also lets you drop your phone off at any Verizon retailer. Which might be the easiest option for dropping off an unwanted or nonworking phone within your neighborhood. However, note that donations to Hopeline are not tax-deductible, while those to the other three organizations are. Otherwise, you ensure the phone doesn’t end up in the dump. You can search for nearby electronic recycling drop-off locations via the Consumer Technology Association’s Greener Gadgets initiative. Some big box stores, including Best Buy, Staples, and Office Depot. Take used electronics for recycling, as do many wireless retailers.

Don’t Throw It Out!

Clearly, you have some great options. And whether you sell the old phone. Give it away to a friend or family member, or donate it to charity. You can ensure that it has more life purpose beyond collecting dust in your home. But even if you’re not motivated to pursue any of those options. You’d rather keep the phone handy in case you need it. Make sure that it doesn’t eventually wind up in the garbage. Meanwhile, newer phones are supposedly less toxic than earlier devices. You’ll still find chemicals like lead, mercury, and cadmium within their components. You don’t want those decaying in the ground with other garbage potentially infecting the earth or water supply. Do your part to ensure that the phone is safe and adequately recycled by professionals. Besides, that phone undoubtedly served you well for a couple of years. Keeping you connected, entertaining you during dull moments, and probably saving you in a pinch or two. Show it a little love and ensure it has a happy future or a respectful resting place.