Over the years, Apple has earned a name for its robust design, unmatched longevity, and excellent software experience. But what’s often overlooked is the trade-in value that Apple offers for older devices, including the Apple Watch. If you plan to sell yours for a new one, here’s how to prepare your Apple Watch for a trade-in.

You may want to consider buying the latest Series 9 Apple Watch, or even the previous generation Series 8 or Series 7 – since the three of them offer almost a similar set of features. Or you can go for the big boy – the Apple Watch Ultra series. Further, you can also buy any new Apple Device by trading in your Apple Watch.

To get a price slash by selling your Apple Watch, here’s what you need to know about the trade-in program.

What Is the Apple Watch Trade-In Program

With Apple’s trade-in program, you can get a good value for your existing device and apply it when purchasing any new Apple Device. This program is available in both online and offline Apple stores.

However, if your device is old, or if it is a case, cable, etc., and isn’t eligible for a trade-in value, Apple will recycle it for free. And you’re encouraged to do this to “save” the environment, which seems to be Apple’s motto these days.

Interestingly, you can also trade in non-Apple devices to buy a new one, but we aren’t sure if you’ll get the best value.

Apple offers a reasonable value as you trade in your Apple Watch. For example, last year’s Apple Watch Series 8 can get you up to $190 based on the condition, age, and variant. That’ll nearly give you a 47 percent price slash on the base variant of the latest Apple Watch Series 9.

While the concept seems simple, there are a few things that you need to be aware of before you trade in your device. So, let’s look at them.

Prepare Your Apple Watch for Trade-In: Things to Do Before Selling Your Apple Watch

Here are a few things you need to do and keep in mind as you prepare to sell your watch for a new Apple Device on Apple’s official website.

1. Erase and Unpair Your Apple Watch from your iPhone

This ensures that all your data is removed from your Apple Watch. You need to erase your Apple Watch and unpair it from your iPhone before you proceed to trade in your Apple Watch. Here’s how you can do it.

Note: Your iPhone will automatically back up your Apple Watch data once you erase it. This backup can be restored seamlessly on your new Apple Watch.

Step 1: Open the Watch app on your iPhone.

Step 2: Tap on General.

Step 3: Tap on Reset.

Step 4: Tap on ‘Erase Apple Watch Content and Settings’.

2. Remove Your Apple Watch From Your Apple ID

You wouldn’t want unauthorized access to your Apple ID and the associated information when your Apple Watch leaves your ownership. Further, if you reset the Apple Watch without removing the Apple ID, the activation lock will prevent anyone from using it.

Therefore, de-register your Apple ID from your Apple Watch. Here’s how to do it.

Step 1: You need to visit the Apple ID menu.

If you are on Windows, visit the Apple ID website to access your Apple ID and associated information on a web browser. You will have to sign in with your Apple ID.

If you are using a Mac, go to System Settings > tap on Name at the top to access your Apple ID.

If you are using your iPhone, open the Settings app and tap on your Name, the first option.
Step 2: Tap on Devices (on web browser and Mac). On your iPhone, you will automatically see the list of devices.

Step 3: Tap on the Apple Watch you want to remove from your Apple ID.

Step 4: Tap on ‘Remove From Account’.

Doing this will de-register your Apple ID from the Apple Watch.

3. Update Your Apple Watch to the Latest Version

Apple also needs you to update your Apple Watch to the latest version before you proceed to trade-in. Here’s how you can do it.

Step 1: Open the Watch app on your iPhone.

Step 2: Tap on General.

Step 3: Tap on Software Update.

Step 4: Download and install a new update, if available.

Your Apple Watch must have at least 50% of battery level and be charging as you install the update.

4. Remove the Band From the Apple Watch

Make sure to remove the band from your Apple Watch. The band will not fetch any additional value, and if you’ve included it in the box while you trade in, the band will be recycled. Furthermore, provided your new Apple Watch is the same size as your old one, the bands will be compatible, so you won’t want to throw it away.

Also Read: Best Apple Watch Series 9 bands: Sports, leather, metal, and more.

5. Remove the Screen Protector and Case

Similarly, the screen protector and the case will not fetch any extra trade-in value and will be recycled if you send them along with your Apple Watch. Therefore, you should remove the screen protector and the case and send your Apple Watch to trade in.

Also Read: Best protective cases for the Apple Watch Series 9.

Moreover, once you remove the case and the screen protector on your Apple Watch, you can accurately estimate the trade-in value on Apple’s website since the physical condition of the watch can be easily determined.

6. Follow the Instructions to Pack Your Apple Watch In the Trade-In Kit

You will receive a trade-in kit to pack your Apple Watch and send the package across safely. You will also receive instructions, so follow them carefully and correctly pack and seal your Apple Watch to avoid any damage during transit.

That is everything you need to know about preparing your Apple Watch for trade-in. Now, let us take a look at the actual process itself.

How to Trade In Your Apple Watch on Apple’s Online Store

Here’s how to trade your Apple Watch on the online store. If you want to trade in your Apple Watch on the offline store, an executive in the store will help you.

Step 1: Go to the official Apple Store website using the below link.

Visit Apple Store Website

Step 2: Pick the device you want to purchase.

Step 3: Select all the details of the new device.

Step 4: Once you reach the trade-in menu, tap ‘Add a trade-in’.

Step 5: Select the device manufacturer – we’ll select Apple since we’re trading in our Apple Watch.

Step 6: Now, enter the serial number and tap on verify.

You can open Settings > General > About on your Apple Watch to find the serial number.

Alternatively, you can open the Watch app on your iPhone and tap on General > About to view the serial number.

Step 7: Confirm if the shown details match your Apple Watch.

Step 8: Answer the next few questions carefully since it’ll help determine the value of your Apple Watch.

You can now check the trade-in value of your Apple Watch.

Step 9: Click on Continue. You will now see that the trade-in value is reflected in the price of the new device you purchase.

Follow the on-screen instructions for further steps on how to complete the process. You can avail of a discount on your new purchase or an Apple Gift card for the same value.

That is everything you need to know about preparing your Apple Watch for trade-in. If you have any further questions, look at the FAQ section below.

FAQs on Apple Watch Trade-In

1. Can I trade in my Apple Watch for a new iPhone? Yes. You can trade in your Apple Watch for an iPhone.
2. Why is the website saying my device isn’t eligible for trade-in? Check your responses once again. If the responses indicate that your Apple Watch has considerable physical damage, Apple will only recycle your device and not offer any exchange value.
3. Which is the best third-party site to sell your Apple Watch? You can trade in your Apple Watch with your carrier (AT&T, Verizon, etc.) or even on Gazelle, Best Buy, or Decluttr.
4. Which is the oldest Apple Watch available for trade-in? Apple Watch Series 4 is the oldest Apple Watch available for a trade-in value.

Time to Upgrade Your Apple Watch

Sure, tech products are depreciating assets – but some devices offer great value when you trade them for a new one, and Apple is a classic example. And that’s a big reason to enter the Apple ecosystem and ensure upgrades don’t break your bank!

Guiding Tech
https://www.guidingtech.com/prepare-apple-watch-for-trade-in/