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With the launch of the iPhone 14 approaching, millions of Apple fans are getting ready to upgrade. As excitement builds and rumours continue to circulate, many iPhone 12 and 13 owners are now considering trading in their device to help cover the cost of the next model.
The quick verdict
If you own an iPhone 12 or 13 and plan to upgrade, trade it in during August, before the iPhone 14 launches in September. Envirofone data suggests values then drop by around 22% for the iPhone 12 and 27% for the iPhone 13, so waiting even a few weeks could cost you up to £168 on an iPhone 13 Pro Max 128GB.
iPhone 12 and 13 depreciation at a glance
| Model | Expected drop after iPhone 14 launch |
|---|---|
| iPhone 12 | Around 22% |
| iPhone 13 | Around 27% |
| iPhone 12 Pro | Up to £133 |
| iPhone 13 Pro Max 128GB | Up to 26.88% (around £168) |
| iPhone 13 Pro Max 256GB | Up to £186 |
All values and figures are based on data available at the time of publication.
If that’s you, timing is everything. In this guide, we break down how quickly older iPhones depreciate, what the numbers look like, and why selling at the right moment could mean a significantly higher payout. If you're eager for a preview of what’s next, our smartphone comparison guide is a great place to start.
iPhone 14 Demand Will Kick-Start Depreciation
Every year, interest in iPhones spikes in late summer. Based on Envirofone search data, the number of people researching Apple devices surges throughout August and September.
This typically happens because:
- the average phone contract lasts around 15 months
- users are ready to upgrade around autumn
- Apple’s September launch triggers huge resale activity
What Happens to Prices?
Envirofone data suggests the following depreciation after the iPhone 14 release period:
- iPhone 12: ~22% drop
- iPhone 13: ~27% drop
High-value models are impacted most. For example:
- iPhone 13 Pro Max 128GB: up to 26.88% drop (~£168)
- iPhone 12 Pro: up to £133 drop
These figures are based on historical depreciation from the iPhone 11 and iPhone 12 trade-in patterns in 2021 and follow the same trend every year.
August Is the Best Month to Trade In
To maximise your trade-in value, trading in your device before the September launch is key. Based on Envirofone’s year-on-year data:
- August consistently offers the highest payouts for iPhone 12 and 13 owners
- Values drop immediately once the next model is announced
How Much Could You Lose by Waiting?
If you wait until after the iPhone 14 release, expected reductions include:
- iPhone 13 Pro Max 128GB: up to £168 drop
- iPhone 13 Pro Max 256GB: up to £186 drop
- All iPhone 13 models: significant and immediate depreciation
In short: even a few weeks’ delay can make a noticeable difference.
Time to Cash In Your iPhone 12 or 13
If you’re still undecided, remember that trade-in values decline rapidly as soon as Apple’s new model hits the shelves. Acting before the end of August could mean earning up to £168 more for the exact same device.
Trading in with Envirofone is simple. Send your iPhone 12 or 13 in one of our free postal bags and our team will run a full set of checks to determine its value based on factors like condition, storage and functionality. Once confirmed, the payment is sent straight to you.
You can start your trade-in today via our trade-in page - and if you’re ready to upgrade straight away, browse our refurbished mobile phones, all fully tested through a 90-point check and available at great prices.
*All values and figures are based on data available at the time of publication.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to sell my iPhone 12 or 13?
Based on Envirofone's year-on-year data, August consistently offers the highest payouts for iPhone 12 and 13 owners, as values drop immediately once Apple's next model is announced in September.
How much does an iPhone lose in value after a new iPhone launches?
Envirofone data suggests the iPhone 12 drops around 22% and the iPhone 13 around 27% after the iPhone 14 release period. High-value models are hit hardest, with the iPhone 13 Pro Max 256GB down up to £186.
Why do iPhone trade-in values drop in September?
Interest in iPhones spikes in late summer because the average contract lasts around 15 months, many users are ready to upgrade in autumn and Apple's September launch triggers huge resale activity.
How do I trade in my iPhone with Envirofone?
Send your iPhone in one of Envirofone's free postal bags. The team runs a full set of checks to determine its value based on condition, storage and functionality, and once confirmed the payment is sent straight to you.
