Consumer attitudes toward repair and reuse of mobile phones are shifting rapidly, fueling a market for circular devices and services that could surpass € 138 billion by 2027, according to a new GSMA report. As the mobile industry prepares for MWC25 Barcelona, the GSMA’s “Rethinking Mobile Phones: the Business Case for Circularity” report reveals that 70% of global consumers are willing to pay more for environmentally friendly phones. Changing regulations and rising e-waste concerns are further reshaping the industry.
Consumers keep devices longer
Sales of new mobile phones have slowed as consumers hold onto their devices for longer periods. Many now opt for refurbished models, driven by cost savings, access to premium devices, and reduced environmental impact. Sustainability is a key purchasing factor for 85% of consumers, exceeding device aesthetics (73%) and AI capabilities (67%). The trend is particularly strong in France, where one in six phones sold last year was refurbished, and in India, where over half of consumers surveyed considered buying a refurbished phone.
Circularity offers economic opportunities
This GSMA report highlights the significant business benefits of circularity. With the market for refurbished devices and repair services projected to exceed €138 billion by 2027, manufacturers and operators can unlock new revenue streams, enhance customer loyalty, and strengthen their sustainability credentials. Beyond financial benefits, circularity supports local economies, reduces reliance on mining, and expands digital access. The GSMA has also launched an online marketplace for mobile operators to resell network equipment, now used by over 40 operators to generate financial and carbon savings.
E-waste and emissions challenges
In 2024, over 1.2 billion smartphones were sold, generating more than 60 million tonnes of CO2 emissions during manufacturing—equivalent to the annual emissions of countries like Morocco or Romania. The UN estimates that e-waste incurs an annual external cost of € 72 billion.
Repairing and refurbishing devices significantly reduce emissions, with carbon savings of 80-90% compared to producing new phones. Operators such as Telefonica, Orange, Deutsche Telekom, Vodafone, and KDDI, along with manufacturers like Samsung, Apple, and Fairphone, are already investing in greener supply chains and sustainable product designs.
Policy changes driving circularity
Governments are increasingly implementing policies to promote circularity. The European Union will soon enforce new eco-design regulations focusing on repairability, durability, and recycling. Similar policies in the United States, Canada, Brazil, and India are reinforcing the global push for a more sustainable mobile industry.
Market
Trade-in
Repair
Refurbishing
