Apple to offer trade-in service for iPhones, says report

Apple is reportedly partnering with an outside company to offer a new trade-in service for iPhones at its retail stores, a program that remains unannounced.

Citing sources, Bloomberg says Apple is working with Brightstar, a Miami-based company that manages trade-ins and logistical efforts for other companies.

The rumored program would let consumers bring in their used iPhones for a discount on newer models, and potentially for credit on other items in Apple’s stores.

Apple did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Such a program would not be a first for the company. Apple already offers a recycling arrangement that gives users either an Apple gift card, or — in the case of iPods and iPhones — a 10 percent discount on a future purchase. The company’s current partnership (which began in late 2011) is with PowerOn, a company that’s offered users up to $345 for top-of-the-line iPhones. It’s not yet clear how this newer service would differ.