If you have an old Samsung phone, you might be able to exchange it for cash soon.
Samsung recently announced a new program called “Galaxy Easy Reward”, which will allow customers to sell their used Galaxy smartphones directly back to the company for cash.
Unlike previous trade-in options, customers will not have to buy a new phone to receive the cash.
Initially launched in South Korea on January 14, the program is expected to expand to other markets throughout the year.
Photo by JHEVPhoto / Getty Images
Eligible Devices and Program Details
The program primarily covers models released in the past five years.
Here are the models that could net customers some money.
- Galaxy S23
- Galaxy S22
- Galaxy S21
- Galaxy S20
- Galaxy Galaxy Z Fold5
- Galaxy Fold4
- Galaxy Fold3
- Galaxy Z Flip5
- Galaxy Flip4
- Galaxy Flip3
Notably, the program does not include newer models like the Galaxy S24 or Galaxy Z Flip6.
The payout users will receive depends on the condition of the phone, with three categories: “Excellent”; “Good”; and “Recycle”.
Phones that are classified as “Excellent” or “Good” are likely to be resold after refurbishment, while devices in the “Recycle” category will be dismantled for parts.
The exact payouts for the program have not been disclosed, but “Excellent” and “Good” products will likely be worth more, while those marked as “Recycle” will be valued less.
Past trade-in deals have offered competitive rates for newer models. For example, previous offers valued the Galaxy S22 Ultra at $800 when traded in for a new device.
However, the new program does not require a purchase, and only select models from the past five years are eligible, which could limit payout amounts.
Why Samsung Is Offering Cash Now
Samsung’s move to buy phones outright could increase the long-term value of its Galaxy lineup.
Historically, Samsung devices have depreciated faster than competitors like Apple‘s iPhones.
By introducing a direct-purchase program, Samsung could attract new customers who see better resale opportunities. The program also positions the company as a competitor to third-party resale platforms, which often dominate the trade-in ecosystem.
Sustainability and Economic Goals
Trade-in programs also reduce electronic waste.
Recycling and refurbishing programs aim to reduce the impact of electronic waste by recovering usable components and promoting a circular economy. Proper recycling ensures that harmful materials are safely processed, and recovered materials reduce the need for mining new resources.
Samsung’s initiative may also bolster customer loyalty by creating an added incentive for current users to remain within the Galaxy ecosystem.
Samsung has not announced a specific timeline for when the Galaxy Easy Reward program will be available in the United States. The company confirmed plans to expand to other regions, including France.
