iPhone owners who plan to upgrade to the next model may want to sell their current device before the new iPhone is unveiled, as trade-in values could fall by as much as 30 percent once the iPhone 18 Pro is confirmed. That warning comes from the team at Gadget GoGo, who note that resale prices typically drop after each new release.
Expected September Launch and New Models
Apple is expected to unveil new devices as soon as September 9th, following its usual pattern of holding a major event in the second week of September. While the company has not confirmed any details, most experts believe the upgraded iPhone 18 Pro models will be showcased, along with Apple's first-ever foldable iPhone featuring a flexible design that opens to reveal a tablet-style display. The standard iPhone 18 might not be part of this event and could arrive in 2027.
Why Selling Early Makes Sense
According to Sam Wilson, Director at Gadget GoGo, many people wait until the new models are announced before selling their old phones, which floods the resale market and drives prices down. Wilson explained: “The iPhone resale market follows a similar pattern every year, but many people still wait until the new models are announced before selling their old phones. At that point, thousands of people have the same idea, more devices hit the resale market and values can quickly start to fall.”
Wilson added: “iPhones tend to hold their value well compared with other smartphones, but that can make getting the timing right even more important. When your phone is worth a significant amount, even a relatively small percentage drop can mean losing a substantial amount of money.”
Current Trade-In Values
Gadget GoGo provided current trade-in values for Apple's iPhones, which could serve as a benchmark for sellers. The iPhone 17 Pro Max (265GB) is worth £690, the iPhone 17 Pro (265GB) £640, the iPhone 17 (265GB) £530, the iPhone Air (265GB) £470, the iPhone 16 Pro (128GB) £510, and the iPhone 16 (128GB) £390.
Trade-in values could drop by as much as 30 percent once the iPhone 18 Pro is confirmed. However, selling before the new iPhone arrives means being without a device for a few weeks. If you have an old phone to use in the meantime, now could be a good time to trade in and get the best price.
