Apple now sells refurbished iphone 16 series models, offering up to 22% savings

apple has officially entered the refurbished phone market, with the tech giant now selling certified pre-owned iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max units through its US online apple Store.

What you get with a refurbished iphone

All refurbished iPhone models come with a new battery, a new outer shell, a one-year limited warranty, and free delivery and returns.

The phone undergoes a thorough cleaning and is tested to ensure it's functioning as it should be. It comes with the original operating system build installed, or a more recent version. The buyer receives a brand-new box with all accessories and cables inside.

Pricing and savings

The refurbished iPhone 16, unlocked and carrying 128GB in storage, can be purchased from apple in Pink, Ultramarine, and Teal for $619, a $110 savings compared to the original launch price of $799 and the current price of $699 for an immediate activation with your carrier, or $729 without it.

For the top-of-the-line 1TB iPhone 16 Pro Max, the refurbished model can be bought from apple for $1,269, a $230 savings from the current price of $1,499.

Alternative options

If you're not sold on apple's refurbished prices, BackMarket is a marketplace for previously used phones that relies on professionals who perform up to a 100-point inspection on the phones listed. BackMarket has an unlocked 1TB iPhone 16 Pro Max for $752.75, well below Apple's price.

Buying refurbished: worth the savings?

While some might still be wary of buying a previously used device, even with Apple's certification and reconditioning process, the potential savings could make refurbished iPhones a more appealing option for those looking to reduce their expenses.

Availability and extended warranty

Apple's refurbished iPhone 16 series models are also available in Canada, the U.K., France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, and other countries, with not every country offering every model. The refurbished units are eligible for extended AppleCare+ or AppleCare One coverage, and Apple claims they are indistinguishable from brand-new units.

• The iPhone 16 series was launched in September 2024.
• Apple's refurbished prices are 12% to 22% lower than the original launch prices or current prices.
• BackMarket offers refurbished iPhones, including the 1TB iPhone 16 Pro Max, at significantly lower prices than Apple.
• Refurbished iPhones come with a one-year limited warranty and free delivery and returns.

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