Apple has updated its GiveBack program to streamline the trade-in process when buying new devices, 9to5Mac reports. Up until now the trade-in program, which encouraged recycling of old iPhones and other smartphones, required users to send in their device to Apple before they could receive a gift card to apply against the purchase of a new iPhone.
Although users could always visit an Apple Store in person for immediate credit, not everybody lives close enough to an Apple Store to take advantage of this option. Now, users shopping for an iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, or Mac will be asked whether they have a device that they wish to trade in, and after answering a few questions about the device will be shown the amount of trade-in value immediately.
A serial number will be required to proceed with the transaction, after which the user will be prompted to complete their purchase normally and be sent a trade-in kit to ship their old device back. Note that the trade-in credit is not applied immediately to the purchase; users be charged the normal price for the new device and receive a refund of the trade-in value once the old device is received and verified by Apple.