I’ve had my previous phone for at least four years, so this is my first upgrade since then. I really enjoy this new model. It might be my favorite iPhone model in a long time.
Local retailer recommended using the website for the upgrade. They said it would be quicker and less of a hassle. Upgrading through the website was fairly straight forward and was quick but it did make me wonder what the purpose of the local retailer really is.
From what I’ve seen in historical data and user reports over the years, Apple’s trade-in program does have a pattern where the initial online estimate sometimes gets revised lower after inspection by their partner. This happens in a noticeable portion of cases, often due to claimed minor damage (like screen issues or dents) that users say wasn’t there. Forums and review sites show thousands of similar complaints dating back years, with some people calling it a “bait and switch” because the lower offer comes after you’ve already bought the new device and sent in the old one. On the flip side, plenty of folks report getting the full quoted amount without issues, especially if trading in-store where they inspect it on the spot.