August 11, 2011

Thinking about updating your iPhone or iPad? You can now trade it in for an Apple gift card that can be used in stores and online. Apple just extended its reuse and recycle program to include the iPhone and iPad. The company is also accepting any computer or display for free recycling, regardless of manufacturer. If the laptop, PC, phone or iPad you turn in qualifies for reuse you will be given store credit. If not, Apple says it will still responsibly recycling the device free of charge.

Apple’s Reuse and Recycling Program contracts with PowerON which estimates the fair market value of the trade-in device. PowerON provides prepaid packaging to ship your old electronics to their facility for evaluation. A gift card is sent in the mail after the value is determined.

Apple also has a partnership with WeRecycle to take care of turned in electronics that have no value. The company used to charge a 30 dollar shipping fee to recycle non-Apple computers without the purchase of a new Mac but now all brands will be recycled for free with no purchase required. Like PowerON, WeRecycle provides a free prepaid shipping label. WeRecycle is a domestic operation that safely recycles e-waste without exporting hazardous materials to other countries.