The short answer: yes, sell before September
iPhone recycler prices follow a predictable pattern every year. In the weeks leading up to Apple's September announcement, prices are stable. In the days after the announcement, prices drop as recyclers receive a flood of trade-ins from people upgrading.
For iPhone 13, 14 and 15 owners, selling in July or August 2026 will get you more money than selling in October 2026. The difference is typically £15–40 per device depending on the model.
How much do iPhone prices drop after a new launch?
Based on historical data from previous iPhone launches:
iPhone 13 (128GB good condition):
Now: approximately £125–165
After iPhone 18 launch: approximately £100–135
Estimated drop: £25–30
iPhone 14 Pro (128GB good condition):
Now: approximately £160–220
After iPhone 18 launch: approximately £130–185
Estimated drop: £30–35
iPhone 15 Pro Max (256GB good condition):
Now: approximately £330–420
After iPhone 18 launch: approximately £280–370
Estimated drop: £40–50
These are estimates based on historical patterns. Actual drops vary depending on demand for specific models.
When exactly do prices drop?
Prices start to soften in the week before Apple's announcement as people anticipate the launch. The sharpest drop happens in the 48 hours after the announcement, as recyclers adjust buying prices to account for the expected surge in trade-ins.
Prices then stabilise at the lower level and gradually decline further over the following months as the device ages another generation.
What if I want to upgrade to iPhone 18?
If you are upgrading from an older iPhone to iPhone 18, the strategy is:
- Sell your current iPhone now — lock in today's price
- Use a cheap SIM only plan in the gap between selling and buying
- Buy iPhone 18 when it launches — or buy refurbished iPhone 17 at reduced post-launch prices if you want to save money
GadgetRank compares both sell prices (to get the most for your old phone) and SIM only deals (to cover the gap cheaply).
What if I have an iPhone 16 or 17?
iPhone 16 and 17 owners will also see price drops after iPhone 18 launches, but the drop is smaller and the phones remain more valuable. If you are happy with your iPhone 16 or 17, there is no pressing reason to sell before iPhone 18 — they will remain capable, well-supported phones for several more years.
If you are considering an upgrade, the same logic applies — selling before September gives you a better price than waiting.
The bottom line
Every September, UK phone owners leave money on the table by waiting to sell after Apple's announcement. Selling in July or August consistently yields £20–50 more per device than selling in October or November.
Compare current recycler prices on GadgetRank, lock in your quote and send your phone before the September drop.
Compare sell prices for your iPhone now →
Apple's battery health documentation explains what the percentage means and when Apple recommends a battery replacement.
Compare SIM only deals for the gap →
Why compare on GadgetRank?
GadgetRank is an independent UK comparison site — not affiliated with any retailer, recycler or network. Every comparison is based on live price data. There are no paid placements or sponsored rankings. The best current offer appears at the top because it is the best current offer, not because of any commercial arrangement.
All retailers listed on GadgetRank meet minimum quality criteria: Trustpilot score of 4.0 or above, minimum 12-month warranty, battery health guarantee, and devices unlocked to all networks. This baseline means every option on GadgetRank is a trustworthy choice — the comparison is purely about price and any additional perks.