iPhone owners planning to trade in their devices are being urged to check a simple battery setting, as a low reading could significantly reduce the value of their handset. According to trade-in site Music Magpie, an iPhone with battery health below 80 percent could be worth almost £100 less than one in better condition.
Why Battery Health Matters
The 2026 release cycle for Apple has been unusual. Instead of launching the standard iPhone 18 range during its autumn event, the company introduced upgraded Pro models and its first foldable phone, the iPhone Duo. Rumours suggest the standard iPhone 18 models will not arrive until early next year, breaking Apple's traditional September upgrade cycle.
This delay could cost shoppers money when they trade in their current devices. A battery health reading above 80 percent is required for a device to qualify for the top 'Excellent' condition grading, according to Music Magpie.
How to Check Your Battery
Checking battery health takes only a few seconds. Users can go to Settings, then Battery, and select Battery Health to see how their iPhone is performing.
Battery condition is not the only factor that affects resale value. Cracked screens, cosmetic damage, faulty features, and other imperfections can all reduce a trade-in offer.
Impact of Delayed Launch
Apple has not confirmed when it will launch its standard iPhone 18 models, but an announcement is expected in spring 2027. Music Magpie's Joe Armstrong warned that the delayed launch could change the usual depreciation pattern for Apple's phones.
He said: "Trade-in valuations for iPhones have held firm this year compared to previous years where we usually see pre-launch price drops, however with the basic iPhone 18 models arriving early in 2027, this could shift the timeline entirely."
"A spring release would move the goalposts for typical depreciation cycles and prompt consumers to trade in their existing hardware much earlier."
For those planning to upgrade when the new models arrive, keeping the current device in good condition and monitoring battery health could help secure a better trade-in price.
