I sent my iPhone for trade in and got a message that my data is still in there and can’t trade in and sending for recycling. I really want my phone back as it’s in good condition. Can someone give lead on the team who can help my phone not getting recycled? I believe Apple’s trade in process need to come with clear instruction and the email with trade in value rather it’s misleading.
iPhone 17 Pro
Apple sent you an email about what you needed to do with your iPhone before you sent it in for trade. If you didn't open or pay attention to that email, that's unfortunate. But you were provided information on how to prepare your phone for trade.
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Kilgore-Trout wrote:
I have used it. Instructions and the importance of wiping it clean of data are very clear and prominent.
Of course they are. Clearly the Author just didn't read anything provided before sending the phone in. As I mentioned, Apple sends an email to confirm your intention to trade your phone and the Subject of the email is "Your Trade-In Is In The Works." And in that email was the following prominently displayed:
Important: Prepare your device.
Before we can process your trade-in, you need to turn off Find My iPhone for iOS devices and Apple Watch, and Find My Mac for Mac.
For an Apple Watch with cellular, remember to remove the cellular plan from the device. To prepare a non-iOS device, be sure to back up all content, return the device to factory settings, and remove the SIM card.
Prior to shipping your device, please reference the links below. They also provide simple directions for erasing all content and settings.
What to do before you sell, give away or trade in your iPhone or iPad >
What to do before you sell, give away, trade in or recycle your Mac >
What to do before you sell, give away or trade in your Apple Watch, or buy one from someone else >
Note: You can also include any accessories you don’t use anymore (cases, chargers, or cables) and we’ll recycle them responsibly. However, if you cancel your trade-in, we’ll be unable to return them to you.
Sorry to hear of your experience.
Having never personally used Apple’s exchange process, I can’t comment on any shortcomings it may contain …
… however the procedure to “wipe” a phone is quite well-established and well-documented.
What to do before you sell, give away, or trade in your iPhone or iPad - Apple Support
I have used it. Instructions and the importance of wiping it clean of data are very clear and prominent.
What is the procedure to get the phone sent for trade in?
