Demand rises in both mature and new markets According to IDC, the secondary mobile market is growing faster than the primary market. Demand remains strong in developed regions and is rising significantly in emerging markets such as India and China. In China, government-backed trade-in bonuses are encouraging consumers to exchange old devices for newer, refurbished models.
Used smartphones gain market share
IDC forecasts that by 2029, 17% of all smartphones sold worldwide will be used or refurbished, up from the current 14%. This steady increase highlights the growing importance of the secondary market in the global telecom industry.
Primary market sees slower growth
In 2023, the primary mobile market declined by 3.5%, but last year it rebounded with 6.1% growth. However, the secondary market continued its momentum, with global volume sales increasing by 7.1%, up from 6.2% in 2023. This trend suggests a shift in consumer behavior, with more buyers opting for used and refurbished smartphones.
Apple leads but faces competition
Apple remains the dominant brand in the secondary market but is losing some ground to Samsung. Meanwhile, the industry is waiting to see if Chinese smartphone brands will fully embrace the secondary market and reshape the competitive landscape.
Market
Trade-in
Repair
Refurbishing
