The German smartphone market is undergoing visible changes as refurbished devices gain momentum, according to newly published data from Niq, formerly known as GfK. Based on consumer surveys, refurbished smartphones now account for at least 10% of the market, representing an estimated 1.8 million units sold over the past twelve months. Niq has only recently begun to track refurbished smartphone sales, with data available from 2024 and 2025. In the second quarter of 2025, 33% more refurbished devices were sold compared to the first quarter, a sign of strong demand. According to Alexander Dehmel, Niq expert for technical consumer goods, refurbished devices “serve the zeitgeist” by supporting sustainability, lowering consumer costs, and offering reliable alternatives with warranty and quality assurance.
Price differences influence buying decisions
Price remains a decisive factor. In the first half of 2025, consumers in Germany spent an average of € 423 on a refurbished smartphone, while a new device cost € 727 on average. This marks a 3% rise compared to the beginning of 2024, when the average was € 701. Premium devices, defined as models costing € 1,200 or more, were the only new device segment to achieve growth, up 5% in the first half of 2025.
Market volume shows overall decline
Despite the premium uptick, Niq reports that the overall German smartphone market shrank. Sales volume fell 5.8%, while revenue declined 2.9%. According to Niq expert Sebastian Woldmann, longer usage cycles and a lack of innovation have slowed replacement purchases, leaving the market saturated. Consumers appear increasingly willing to hold onto devices longer, turning either to refurbished models or premium upgrades when they do purchase.
Refurbished growth beyond Germany
The trend is not limited to Germany. Niq highlights France, where refurbished smartphones now make up 41% of the sub-€ 600 segment. This mid-range is where many consumers are switching to refurbished devices, while premium models from previous years are increasingly available at lower prices.
Regulation supports longer device lifecycles
The European Ecodesign Regulation, effective since June 2025, is also expected to support growth in the refurbished sector. The new rules require manufacturers to provide software updates for five years after sales end and make spare parts available for longer, extending the safe and practical use of smartphones across the EU.
Market
Trade-in
Repair
Refurbishing
