French refurbished electronics marketplace Back Market has joined CTIA and their Responsible Lifecycle and Service Quality (RLSQ) Program. The company aims to collaborate with industry leaders to refine standards that boost consumer trust and ensure high-quality purchases of preowned devices on e-commerce platforms. Founded in 1984, CTIA is a key American non-profit organization representing the wireless telecommunications sector. It focuses on mobile technology development, wireless networks, and device certification programs to ensure industry-wide quality and standards.
Industry leaders support new standards
Major industry players such as Apple, Samsung Mobile, Assurant, PCS Wireless, AT&T, Sprint, and software providers like Blancco Technology Group, Blackbelt360, and PrologMobile are all members CTIA. On of their goals is to bring consistency and transparency to the secondary smartphone market. In order to support this CTIA published their fourth version of its "Wireless Devices Grading Scales Criteria and Definitions." This update aims to establish a universal grading standard in the U.S. for used and refurbished smartphones, covering both cosmetic and functional aspects.
CTIA's role in the industry
CTIA allows companies to continue using their own grading systems but requires them to disclose the criteria used. This step enhances clarity for consumers. Some companies, like Encore Repair, have already fully adopted the new standards.
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