The smartphone industry is in constant motion, shaped by the latest technology launches, shifting supply chains, and a mix of global economic factors. These changes don’t just impact new device sales, they have a direct effect on the thriving secondary market, where demand for affordable and high-quality pre-owned devices is growing rapidly.
In this B-Stock Q&A, we connect with Joe Dube, Director of Mobile Accounts, to get his perspective on the current landscape of the pre-owned mobile market, what trends he anticipates in the year ahead, and some personal insights from his journey in the industry.
If you had to sum up in one word, how would you describe the current state of the pre-owned mobile market right? Why?
Maturing.
The pre-owned mobile market is entering a new phase of sophistication and scale. Stakeholders now recognize the immense opportunity in the secondary market, and we’re seeing rapid advancements in how devices are sourced, assessed, and sold. Trade-in programs are more robust than ever, grading and triage processes have become increasingly precise and efficient, thanks to innovations like AI-powered diagnostics and automated inspection systems, and carriers and OEMs are leveraging data and analytics to optimize pricing and channel strategy, maximizing recovery and minimizing risk.
This maturation is evident across the supply chain: from improved refurbishment standards and consumer trust in pre-owned devices, to the rise of certified programs and greater focus on sustainability. The market is not just growing-it’s evolving, with every link in the supply chain becoming more analytical, technology-driven, and focused on extracting the highest possible value.
Any data points or trends take you by surprise in Q1?
The most significant trend in Q1 was a return to market normalcy. We observed standard monthly depreciation rates in the 2–4% range, with no major pricing swings or unexpected shifts. In contrast to last year, when the market saw unusually strong pricing and less depreciation, particularly over the summer months, in Q1 pricing followed a more typical pattern of gradual depreciation, reflecting a more stable environment.
What would be your number one piece of advice/or message for OEMs and carriers right now?
My top piece of advice for OEMs and carriers is to take a truly end-to-end approach to the secondary market. It’s not just about offloading pre-owned devices-it’s about understanding and optimizing every step of the process. Partnering with the right experts at each stage is essential; the quality of your partners directly impacts the value you can recover, your brand reputation, and your ability to scale sustainably. By investing in strong, data-driven partnerships, you’ll maximize the lifetime value of your devices and position your organization for long-term success.
You were recently the recipient of a “Pros to Know” award. Do you have any thoughts you’d like to share?
I was really honored to be recognized as a 2025 Pro to Know. The award reflects the innovative, data-driven approach B-Stock brings to the mobile secondary market and the resale ecosystem. With the pre-owned mobile market outpacing the growth of the primary market, and with advancements in trade-in and resale technologies, we’re uniquely positioned to help wireless carriers and OEMs maximize value and extend device lifecycles. We enable our partners to navigate a rapidly maturing market and unlock new opportunities for tens of millions of pre-owned devices.
What would you say to your younger self just getting started in this industry?
I’d tell myself that nobody has it all figured out-even the largest of companies aren’t always fully optimized. There’s always room to improve, learn, and grow. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, and don’t just settle for knowing how things are done- dig a little deeper to understand the why. That curiosity will help you see opportunities others might miss and make a real difference as you grow in your career.
Looking ahead, if you had to list your top 5 ‘things to watch for’ as an industry in 2025, what would they be?
Looking ahead, I think there are several key trends set to shape the pre-owned mobile market. First, the impact of new and proposed tariffs on imported electronics could significantly raise prices for lower-grade devices and components, particularly those coming from major trade partners like China. This could accelerate a shift toward more domestic refurbishment and repair operations in the U.S., as companies look for ways to control costs and minimize supply chain disruptions. If tariffs do drive up prices for new and imported devices, we can expect to see increased demand for repair services and a renewed focus on getting the most value out of devices already in circulation.
At the same time, the adoption of robotics and AI is transforming how devices are processed, triaged, and graded. Automated systems are making evaluations faster, more consistent, and more precise, which helps improve both efficiency and recovery rates. This trend is likely to continue, with robotics playing a bigger role in every stage of the secondary market, from intake to refurbishment.
We’re also seeing the industry move beyond basic “buff and polish” cosmetic fixes. There’s now a much greater emphasis on substantial repairs and comprehensive refurbishment, driven by both consumer expectations and sustainability goals. Buyers want quality and affordability, and sellers are responding with higher refurbishment standards and certified programs that build trust and command better prices.
Original equipment manufacturers, or OEMs, are also taking a more active role in the secondary market. They’re investing more in trade-in programs, grading standards, and resale channels, and by managing more of the process themselves, they’re able to maximize the residual value of their products. This is all part of the broader industry maturation, as everyone involved becomes more analytical and strategic about extracting value at every step.
And, finally, consumer demand for pre-owned and refurbished devices continues to rise, fueled by environmental concerns and the increasing cost of new devices. As the market grows, we’ll see even more innovation in circular economy models, with companies making recommerce a core part of their sustainability strategy.
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For a closer look at our most recent mobile secondary market pricing data and trends of specific top-performing models over Q1 2025, view our latest edition of the B-Stock Mobile Insider.
