The iPhone 13 continues to be most traded-in smartphone for the third consecutive quarter in the USA, according to Assurant’s Q1 2025 Mobile Trade-In and Upgrade Industry Trends Report.
The report says the iPhone 13 continues to dominate consumer trade-in and upgrade programs, reinforcing the enduring popularity of Apple’s recent iPhone generations.
Four out of the five most turned-in devices this quarter were 5G-enabled, with the iPhone 11 the only 4G model still appearing on the leaderboard. On the Android front, the Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra 5G also retained its position as the most traded-in model, marking its third straight quarter at the top.
The report indicates consumers are holding onto their smartphones for longer than ever. The average iPhone turned in during Q1 2025 was 3.79 years old, while Android devices averaged 3.93 years—both the highest figures recorded to date. The data suggests users are delaying upgrades, either because existing devices continue to meet their needs or due to economic pressures.
“Despite several three-year-old models appearing in the top five, the absence of promotions targeting older phones appears to be slowing upgrade cycles,” the report notes. “Without strong incentives, we may soon see the average trade-in age exceed four years.”
Assurant’s President of Global Connected Living & International, Biju Nair, pointed to economic conditions and evolving technology as key drivers. “Through 2024, the rise of powerful new AI-enabled devices led to a surge in upgrade activity,” he said. “But at the start of 2025, affordability is playing a larger role in consumer decision-making. Trade-in programs remain essential in helping customers access the latest tech at lower cost while supporting sustainability.”
Assurant expects the secondary device market to remain strong, driven by a combination of value, environmental responsibility, and ongoing promotional efforts from mobile providers.
