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Tech Clutter Overload: New CNET Survey Shows 31% of US Adults Hang On to Old Devices

Despite incentives for selling and trading in tech devices, a large number of phones, computers and game consoles end up neglected and unused.

Whether you’re upgrading to the latest iPhone or Samsung Galaxy phone, or snagging a new ultralight laptop for work on the go, the joy of gaining that powerful technology comes with a small burden — what to do with your old smartphone or computer? For a large number of people, the answer is «nothing.»

A recent CNET survey reveals that over three in 10 (31%) US adults hang onto old devices, because they aren’t sure what to do with smartphones, video game consoles, laptops and other tech accessories they no longer use. Nearly one in five (19%) US adults throw away these devices. However, many prefer to trade in their old devices for an exchange or upgrade (37%), while 25% are selling them. 

With tariffs expected to drive up electronics prices, there are still ways to save money on new tech, and selling your old devices can help offset the cost. If your device is broken or too outdated to sell, experts recommend using an electronics recycling service to avoid polluting the environment and so valuable materials like copper and aluminum can be reused.

Here’s what the latest CNET survey found about how US adults are disposing of tech they don’t want anymore and tips for what you can do with yours.  

Key takeaways:

  • 31% of US adults are still holding on to old tech devices because they’re not sure what to do with them.
  • 37% of Americans trade in or exchange their old devices, while 25% sell them. 
  • 29% use a recycling service to dispose of old tech, while 19% toss old devices in the trash.

Over one-third of US adults trade in or exchange their old tech

Many US adults (37%) trade in smartphones, gaming devices, laptops and accessories for another device or an upgrade. That can come in handy if a retailer offers a discount on the new gadget in exchange for the trade. 

Other popular disposal methods include giving it to a loved one or recycling it. Some US adults even try selling their devices, which can bring in some extra cash. Here’s a closer look at some common disposal methods based on CNET’s survey.

Read more: Spring Cleaning? Free Expert Tech Recycling Tips for a Greener Home

How to maximize the value of your smartphone trade-in

One-third of US adults trade in their smartphones for an exchange or upgrade to lower the price of a new one. Others use a recycling service or give the old device away. Here’s a closer look. 

If you plan to trade an old device, start with your phone carrier, said Patrick Holland, CNET’s managing editor for mobile. Many manufacturers, like Apple and Samsung, will partner with carriers to offer steep discounts on a new model when you trade in an old one.

«These deals usually happen within the first month a new phone goes on sale and can sometimes cover the entire price — just depends on how old and what condition the phone you’re trading in is,» he said. Some manufacturers may offer steeper discounts during the preorder period before a new phone is released, Holland added.

The longer you wait to trade in your device, the less you’re likely to get. For example, if you’re upgrading to the iPhone 16, you may need an iPhone 12 Pro or newer model to get a full promotional offer. Check your retailer’s trade-in requirements to make sure your device qualifies.

Most importantly, make sure your device works and is in good condition, with minimal scratches or cracks. You may also compare trade-in offers by getting estimates from different retailers and carriers for the best deal.

If your phone doesn’t qualify for a trade-in offer, or if you think the offer is too low, consider selling your phone. CNET experts recommend Swappa, an online marketplace to sell and buy used electronics. Swappa helps you set your price fairly by comparing similar models and features to yours. But there are other options to consider, too. 

«I’ve had a lot of luck on eBay and Gazelle,» Holland said. «Selling a phone on eBay can involve a little work and take some time, but you’ll usually get more money there.» 

Gazelle and similar resale sites are usually quicker than selling on eBay or Facebook Marketplace. but you may get less money for your device, Holland said. You can also trade in your tech with Best Buy’s trade-in program. And if your device’s value is too low, you can recycle it right at the store. 

On the other hand, if you’re not looking to get any money back from your old phone, many retailers and carriers — like Apple, Best Buy and AT&T — will recycle it for free. It’s best to call the physical store to make sure in advance. Holland also recommends donating your old phone to charity, like Cell Phones For Soldiers, if the phone is in good, working condition. 

Read more: Apple iPhone 16 Trade-In Tips: Getting Your Next Phone Using Your Old One

Many US adults recycle or gift old laptops and computers

By the numbers, nearly a quarter of US adults recycle their computers and computer accessories, while 18% give the old computer to family or friends. But 21% are unsure of what to do with the computer.

There are a few options, but regardless of how you discard, it’s important to remove your personal data first.

Before you recycle your laptop or give it away, CNET’s computing and home entertainment managing editor Josh Goldman recommends restoring it to its original condition to make sure your sensitive data is wiped from the machine. 

«Remove any software you’re not using, delete any unnecessary files and update the operating system,» Goldman said. «Back up all your important files, write down all the software you need — and find the license keys if you paid for it — and do a full system reset to start fresh.»

Manufacturers typically offer free-to-download software for securely deleting data. Windows devices have a secure erase option built into the system. Finish by blowing out any dust and debris with a can of compressed air and cleaning the outside with a cloth that’s safe for electronics.

For extra protection, Goldman suggests removing the hard drive or solid-state drive from your computer and destroying it. «It’s not necessary, but it’s extra peace of mind,» Goldman said. If that’s not an option, he recommends resetting the laptop, then using software to erase the solid-state drive or hard disk drive.

You’re then free to gift or donate your device. Many communities offer free electronics recycling drop-off locations. Goldman recommends starting your search with the Department of Public Works in your city or county. 

«If you’re not sure where to start, use Earth911.com‘s search. Just pop in your ZIP code and it’ll give you local options,» he said. 

Many gamers opt to sell old consoles 

When it comes to getting rid of unused video game systems, 17% of gamers prefer to sell their old consoles, followed by gifting them to family or friends (16%). If you no longer use a video game system, selling your old console could earn you some extra money. You just need to take a few precautions. 

Scott Stein, CNET’s editor at large, cautions anyone selling a gaming console to a retailer to make sure they’re getting a fair price. You can also sell directly to buyers on eBay and community groups like Facebook Marketplace and Offer Up. He also recommends community groups as another way to sell. 

When determining the price, assess the resale value and the condition of your accessories and console. You may also look at how other sellers are pricing their consoles to determine a fair price. Lastly, think about the value of your games and how rare they are — that could increase your console’s value. 

Before selling or gifting a video game console, reset all content and account settings. Most importantly, remove any credit card payment information you may have stored on your account details. Most consoles have an easy reset-to-factory setting to make erasing your data easy. 

Other ways to recycle old tech

Still struggling with where to get rid of devices you don’t want anymore? Major office supply stores like Staples and Office Depot offer recycling services, and so does Best Buy. Some stores even offer store credits in exchange for your old tech. 

Check the list of accepted items before you go to the store. For example, larger monitors can be recycled for $20 at Staples, and while most personal tech is accepted, medical devices and TVs are a few items that aren’t. 

Methodology 

CNET commissioned YouGov Plc to conduct the survey. All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 2,511 adults. Fieldwork was undertaken from March 26-28, 2025. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all US adults (aged 18 and over).

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Technologies

Today’s NYT Connections: Sports Edition Hints and Answers for Aug. 21, #332

Here are hints and the answers for the NYT Connections: Sports Edition puzzle for Aug. 21, No. 332.

Looking for the most recent regular Connections answers? Click here for today’s Connections hints, as well as our daily answers and hints for The New York Times Mini Crossword, Wordle and Strands puzzles.

To solve today’s Connections: Sports Edition, focus on the endings of some of the words. That should help you see how they connect. Read on for hints and the answers.

Connections: Sports Edition is out of beta after making its debut on Super Bowl Sunday on Feb. 9. That’s a sign that the game has earned enough loyal players that The Athletic, the subscription-based sports journalism site owned by the Times, will continue to publish it. It doesn’t show up in the NYT Games app but now appears in The Athletic’s own app. Or you can continue to play it free online.  

Read more: NYT Connections: Sports Edition Puzzle Comes Out of Beta

Hints for today’s Connections: Sports Edition groups

Here are four hints for the groupings in today’s Connections: Sports Edition puzzle, ranked from the easiest yellow group to the tough (and sometimes bizarre) purple group.

Yellow group hint: What you want to do.

Green group hint: Football abbreviations.

Blue group hint: Home to hoops.

Purple group hint: Hidden hockey team names.

Answers for today’s Connections: Sports Edition groups

Yellow group: Objective.

Green group: NFL teams, on scoreboards.

Blue group: NBA arenas ending with «Center.»

Purple group: Ends with an NHL team.

Read more: Wordle Cheat Sheet: Here Are the Most Popular Letters Used in English Words

What are today’s Connections: Sports Edition answers?

The yellow words in today’s Connections

The theme is objective. The four answers are aim, goal, mark and target.

The green words in today’s Connections

The theme is NFL teams, on scoreboards. The four answers are CHI, MIA, MIN and NO. (Chicago, Miami, Minnesota and New Orleans.)

The blue words in today’s Connections

The theme is NBA arenas ending with «Center.» The four answers are Barclays, Chase, Delta and Kia.

The purple words in today’s Connections

The theme is ends with an NHL team. The four answers are geoducks, spoilers, superstars and Vikings. (Ducks, Oilers, Stars and Kings.)

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Technologies

Made by Google 2025: Everything Announced — Pixel 10, Pixel Watch 4, Pixel 10 Pro Fold

At a star-studded event hosted by late-night host Jimmy Fallon, Google announced new phones, watches, earbuds and Android features.

Even though the Pixel 10 leaks and rumors felt as if they arrived in a steady firehose before today’s Made by Google event — compelling the company to release a teaser video pre-announcing the new phone’s existence a month ago — Google still delivered details it somehow managed to keep private until it was ready to share.

And that delivery was refreshingly fun for a tech event. The Tonight Show host Jimmy Kimmel led the proceedings in a very late-night talk show format, bringing on several special guests from media, sports and yes, Google’s own experts to show off the products and features they’ve been working on for today’s announcements.

Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL are real

Surprise, Google announced new phones! OK, this was the least surprising part of the event, but it still feels good to finally know what exists and when it’s coming. Preorders for the Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL begin today and will be in stores and shipping starting August 28.

  • I’m Stoked That Google Made the Pixel 10 a $799 Value-Packed Feature Monster

  • I Tested Google’s Pixel 10 Pro XL in Paris, and I’m Impressed

  • Pixel 10 Pro and Pro XL First Look: Familiar Design, New AI Tricks

  • Google Launches the Full Pixel 10 Line, Including the Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL

Pixel 10 Pro Fold opens the next chapter of foldables

Folding phones so far have shared an Achilles Hinge: small particulates like sand can get inside the case and really mess things up. The Pixel 10 Pro Fold is one of the first to have an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, meaning you can take it to the beach.

  • Pixel 10 Pro Fold Is Tougher, Smarter and Totally Dust Resistant

  • Forget the Pixel 10 Pro Fold. Foldables Should Look Like the Microsoft Surface Duo

  • Google’ Pixel 10 Pro Fold Is Here

Pixel Watch 4 talks to Gemini and is your new health coach

The Pixel Watch 4 includes new fitness options like real-time guidance while exercising. And if you forgot to start a workout, the watch (with AI help) can detect the activity in the background and remind you of it later, giving you credit for the effort you made. It’s also the only smartwatch that can detect a loss of pulse and call emergency services automatically.

  • Well Played, Google: The Pixel Watch 4 May Give Apple Watch Loyalists a Wandering Eye

  • Pixel Watch 4 First Look: Google Just Raised the Bar

  • The Pixel Watch 4 Is Here. Can It Finally Beat Apple?

Pixel Buds 2a are more affordable earbuds

Joining the Pixel Buds 2 Pro in the market are Pixel Buds 2a, an affordable ($130) pair of wireless earbuds that feature active noise cancellation, a smaller and lighter for all, and a twist-to-adjust stabilizer feature for setting a comfortable fit.

  • Google’s New Pixel Buds 2A Look a Lot Like the Pro 2, but Cost Way Less

  • Meet the Pixel Buds 2A: Google’s Budget Answer for ANC Buds

Pixel Buds Pro 2 owners will see new features

Coming in a software update next month, Pixel Buds Pro 2 owners will be able to answer calls or send them to voicemail with a nod or shake of the head. You’ll be able to talk to Gemini live in noisy locations, and benefit from adaptive audio that applies noise cancellation while letting important sounds come through. At the other end, a new feature will protect your hearing from very loud sounds.

Magic Cue is a Gemini assistant that pulls data from your correspondence

In the rollout of all the various AI technologies in the industry, the current stretch goal is «agentic» interactions with software: Having an AI that knows all sorts of details about you and can act to get the important stuff in front of you when needed. (And do it in a privacy-first way, one would hope.)

Magic Cue is Google’s implementation. It’s a new Gemini-based feature that can look through your earlier messages, emails and photos to pull details about things like restaurant reservations and flight times. Magic Cue runs on the Pixel device itself, so sensitive data stays private and not shared to the cloud.

A lot of Gemini AI intelligence is still coming soon

At the start of the event, Kimmell sat down in typical talk-show format with Rick Osterloh, senior vice president of platforms and devices, to chat about Gemini and the marvels of AI. Aside from Magic Cue, which will be shipping on the Pixel 10 phones, a lot of the features we’ve been hearing about are still on the horizon.

«For instance, Gemini could do something like plan a team celebration dinner for 12 people tonight,» he said. «It might go find a restaurant that’ll accommodate that group…. Look for a karoake place nearby and maybe even order custom T-shirts for the celebration.»

And when will that be possible? Kimmell asked. «A lot sooner than people think,» Osterloh replied. «This kind of thing is coming this year.»

The Pixel 10 Pro and 10 Pro XL can zoom to 100x with AI help

Pro Res Zoom on the Pixel 10 Pro phones pushes zooming far beyond what would seem to be possible with typical small cameras. Usually when you zoom beyond the optical limits of the cameras, details get fuzzy as the software upscales the image. With Pro Res Zoom, when you go beyond 30x zoom, it uses generative AI to build a sharper version. CNET’s Andrew Lanxon got both impressive and head-scratching results while making photos in Paris using the Pixel 10 Pro XL.

Camera Coach uses AI to encourage better photos

Smartphone cameras have employed AI for several years, such as identifying subjects in order to blur the background for Portrait modes or quickly snapping several shots at multiple exposures and blending them together to create well-balanced lighting throughout. Now Google is using AI to help you take better photos.

Camera Coach is a new feature in the Pixel Camera app that looks at the scene in front of the lens and generates multiple suggestions for how to improve the photo before it’s captured. To show this off, podcaster Alex Cooper brought Fallon out to be her model and sat him down on a couch. When she activated the feature, Camera Coach suggested that she move the camera closer to the subject, position his head in the upper portion of the frame, lower the camera to eye level and turn on Portrait mode.

«To all the girls that are watching, I personally know how hard it is to train your boyfriend or your husband to get that perfect shot,» said Cooper. «And now Camera Coach can just train all the boys for us.»

Pixel 10 supports Qi2 magnetic charging

The Qi2 spec includes not just faster charging but also an array of magnets on the back for connecting to accessories. Sound familiar? The presenters mentioned Apple’s MagSafe system, then paused with the realization that they probably shouldn’t have name-checked it during the Google event. On the Pixel 10 phones, it’s called Pixelsnap and should work with accessories made for Apple’s ecosystem too.

Pixel 10 will be available in Mexico

In an impressive segment demonstrating Gemini live translation during a phone call, musician Karen Polinesia, who speaks Spanish, announced that for the first time, the Pixel 10 will be available for sale in Mexico.

This article is being updated; stay tuned for more.

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Technologies

Upgrading to Pixel 10? Here’s How to Prepare Your Old Pixel for Trade-In

Don’t send off your phone with a ton of personal information still on it.

Google just announced the Pixel 10 family, and several preorder offers are available right now. If you’re looking for an even better deal on these new phones, you might want to consider trading in your old Pixel for maximum savings. 

The Pixel 10 family consists of the base Pixel 10 model, two Pro models and the latest Pro Fold. All of these phones feature the latest Tensor G5 Processor, Qi2 wireless charging and, of course, new AI tricks. We went hands-on with the new phones, and they made a good impression. 

If you’re ready to leap into a new Pixel, you’ll want to make sure you’ve prepared your old phone properly before you send it off. 

If you don’t check all the right boxes for trading in your phone, its trade-in value could be reduced. You also want to avoid sending your phone out with a ton of personal information still left on it. 

Below, we’ll go over the steps to ensure a seamless trade-in experience when your new Pixel 10 arrives. 

For more, we’ve wrangled all of the best Pixel 10 cases you can buy right now. 

Turn off the activation lock on your Pixel phone

Before you trade in your phone, you’ll just need a factory reset to qualify for the maximum trade-in value. Some retailers want you to remove the activation lock from your phone first, which requires removing the device from your Google account before resetting it. (AT&T took off over $400 of the value because I didn’t do this to my Pixel 7 Pro when I upgraded to the 8 Pro a few years back.)

You can remove your Google account from your phone directly or via your online account. 

From your Pixel settings

You can remove the activation lock right from your Pixel phone. H:

  1. On your phone, navigate to Settings.
  2. Tap Passwords & accounts.
  3. Tap your Google account.
  4. Tap Remove account.

Repeat this process for any additional accounts you need to remove. 

From the web

Alternatively, you can head to your online Google account web page and handle the removal from there. 

  1. From a web browser, navigate to your Google account.
  2. Select Security on the left sidebar.
  3. Locate the Your devices box, and select Manage all devices.
  4. Select the device you’re trading in.
  5. Select Sign out.

Factory reset your Pixel

With the activation lock removed, you’re now free to factory reset your device as you normally would. 

  1. On your Pixel, navigate to Settings.
  2. Tap System.
  3. Tap Reset options.
  4. Tap Erase all data (factory reset).

That’s it. Now you’re ready to send in your trade-in without any hiccups that could drop the value you get for your phone. 

For more, check out a closer look at the Pixel 10 Pro XL’s camera performance.

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