India’s secondary smartphone market is expanding quickly, fueled by aspirational consumers looking for premium devices at more affordable prices. In 2024, the total value of India’s used smartphone market is projected to reach € 6.7 billion, with sales reaching 38 million units. Refurbished smartphones make up around 30% of this, representing 10 million units and a market value of € 1.95 billion. This segment is expected to double by 2028 to 20 million units. Within this space, Indian company Control Z plays a significant role. In the past year alone, the company refurbished more than 50,000 smartphones and secured an additional US$ 3 million in funding to scale its operations.
Indian market remains largely unorganised
Currently, nearly two-thirds of India’s secondary smartphone market is dominated by unorganised resellers. These sellers often lack standardisation, transparency, and reliable repair practices, which can result in inconsistent device quality and eroded consumer trust. However, a shift is underway as more structured players enter the space, introducing standardised pricing, diagnostic protocols, and quality control.
Control Z drives structured innovation
Among the most prominent organised platforms is Control Z, which focuses exclusively on refurbishing, not just reselling. Unlike informal vendors, Control Z follows a rigorous industrial refurbishment process, using automated systems and over 300 diagnostic checks. Devices are dismantled, cleaned, repaired with quality parts, and reassembled to “just like new” condition. Now the company is looking to expand their business outside India as well and are actively looking for new customers.
Quality, warranty and accessories boost trust
A key differentiator for Control Z is its comprehensive offering: 18-month warranties, 100% battery health, and included accessories. These added-value elements address a major consumer concern, the uncertainty of used product quality. Control Z’s mission also includes minimising environmental damage by extending the life of smart devices.
Refurbishment meets sustainability at Renew Hub
Control Z’s state-of-the-art facility, as the company loves referring to, known as the “Renew Hub”, combines eco-conscious design with industrial precision. Built with sustainable materials like bamboo and mud, the hub features conveyor-based workflows, energy efficiency, and AI-powered automation. This scalable infrastructure supports the company’s ability to renew tens of thousands of smartphones annually.
Market
Trade-in
Repair
Refurbishing
