Smartphone market: Used phones become a worthwhile option.

With soaring chip prices and a shift in the smartphone market, used phones are becoming a viable option for consumers.

The price of new smartphones is increasing due to rising processor chip costs.

After years of intense price competition, the smartphone market is entering a new adjustment phase as production costs continue to rise. One of the biggest reasons is the sharp increase in semiconductor and processor chip prices, which in turn drives up device manufacturing costs.

The smartphone market is shifting. Photo: Hoang Ha Mobile

In recent years, major tech companies have continuously invested in new process chips to improve performance, optimize AI, and enhance image processing capabilities on smartphones. However, the increasing complexity of semiconductor technology development has led to significantly higher research and production costs.

Furthermore, pressure from the global supply chain and the need to integrate more AI features into devices have also contributed to the faster increase in the price of new smartphones than before. Market trends show that many flagship models have now exceeded 25-30 million VND, while the mid-range segment is gradually establishing a new price level.

This makes it difficult for many ordinary users to upgrade their devices, especially students or those who need to replace their devices on a short-term basis.

Older phones are attracting users again.

With new smartphones becoming increasingly expensive, the used phone market is seeing a significant increase in demand. Beyond cost savings, many consumers are now more open to buying used devices due to improved quality and more transparent warranty policies.

Many older flagship models still boast powerful performance, high-quality cameras, and the ability to meet the needs of studying, working, or entertainment for the next few years. Instead of spending tens of millions of VND on the latest model, many users choose older smartphones to optimize their budget while still ensuring a stable user experience.

According to retailers, this trend is becoming more popular as consumers increasingly prioritize practical usability over short-term upgrades.

The used equipment market is shifting towards a more professional model.

While previously used phones were often associated with concerns about quality or after-sales risks, the market has changed significantly as major retailers have begun investing heavily in product inspection and warranty processes.

Consumers are increasingly prioritizing practical usability. Photo: Hoang Ha Mobile

At Hoang Ha Mobile, all used devices undergo a thorough inspection of various aspects before being put on sale, including appearance, screen, battery, camera, speaker, microphone, connectivity, and overall performance. After inspection, products are clearly categorized according to their condition to help users make easier choices. The system also offers a warranty of up to 6 months and supports exchanges in case of technical defects. This gives users more peace of mind when choosing a used smartphone as a cost-effective solution while still ensuring a long-term user experience.

According to market observations, many used smartphone models are now significantly cheaper than new ones, with discounts of up to 70% depending on the model. With a budget of around 10 million VND, users can now access many older iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, or flagship Android models with stable configurations and performance. Furthermore, trade-in programs offering discounts of up to 30% (maximum 5 million VND) are also driving demand for device upgrades during a period of high new smartphone prices.

Users prioritize practical value.

According to retail experts, the continued rise in processor chip prices could keep the price of new smartphones high for the foreseeable future. This is seen as a driving force behind the stronger growth of the used phone market.

Notably, the trend of choosing used smartphones is no longer temporary but reflects a shift in the technology consumption mindset of Vietnamese users. Instead of focusing on the race for specifications or constantly chasing the latest models, many people now prioritize devices that meet their specific needs at a reasonable cost and with reliable after-sales service.

In this context, the used smartphone market is predicted to remain vibrant, especially at retail systems with transparent inspection processes and clear warranty policies.

Source: https://congthuong.vn/thi-truong-smartphone-dien-thoai-cu-tro-thanh-lua-chon-dang-can-nhac-458817.html