Technologies

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 If your device is broken or too outdated to sell, experts recommend using an electronics recycling service to avoid polluting the environment and so valuable materials like copper and aluminum can be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).

Technologies

Today’s Wordle Hints, Answer and Help for Sept. 11, #1545

Here are hints and the answer for today’s Wordle for Sept. 11, No. 1,545.

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

Today’s Wordle puzzle was an easy one for me, for a change! If you need a new starter word, check out our list of which letters show up the most in English words. If you need hints and the answer, read on.

Today’s Wordle hints

Before we show you today’s Wordle answer, we’ll give you some hints. If you don’t want a spoiler, look away now.

Wordle hint No. 1: Repeats

Today’s Wordle answer has no repeated letters.

Wordle hint No. 2: Vowels

Today’s Wordle answer has two vowels.

Wordle hint No. 3: First letter

Today’s Wordle answer begins with C.

Wordle hint No. 4: For your house

Today’s Wordle answer refers to a piece of furniture.

Wordle hint No. 5: Meaning

Today’s Wordle answer can refer to where you might sit at your kitchen table.

TODAY’S WORDLE ANSWER

Today’s Wordle answer is CHAIR.

Yesterday’s Wordle answer

Yesterday’s Wordle answer, Sept. 10, No. 1544 was POUTY.

Recent Wordle answers

Sept. 6, No. 1540: BULGE

Sept. 7, No. 1541: TENOR

Sept. 8, No. 1542: CHIRP

Sept. 9, No. 1543: TRICK

Technologies

Today’s NYT Strands Hints, Answers and Help for Sept. 11

Here are hints and answers for the NYT Strands puzzle for Sept. 11

Looking for the most recent Strands answer? Click here for our daily Strands hints, as well as our daily answers and hints for The New York Times Mini Crossword, Wordle, Connections and Connections: Sports Edition puzzles.

Today’s NYT Strands puzzle took me a while. The answers are numerous and tough to unscramble, I thought. If you need hints and answers, read on.

I go into depth about the rules for Strands in this story.

If you’re looking for today’s Wordle, Connections and Mini Crossword answers, you can visit CNET’s NYT puzzle hints page.

Read more: NYT Connections Turns 1: These Are the 5 Toughest Puzzles So Far

Hint for today’s Strands puzzle

Today’s Strands theme is: Take a break

If that doesn’t help you, here’s a clue: Relax.

Clue words to unlock in-game hints

Your goal is to find hidden words that fit the puzzle’s theme. If you’re stuck, find any words you can. Every time you find three words of four letters or more, Strands will reveal one of the theme words. These are the words I used to get those hints but any words of four or more letters that you find will work:

STEER, SHOW, CREE, STEM, METS, MICE, SHADE, DIME, TREE, STREET, DARE, DARES, PAIN, MITE

Answers for today’s Strands puzzle

These are the answers that tie into the theme. The goal of the puzzle is to find them all, including the spangram, a theme word that reaches from one side of the puzzle to the other. When you have all of them (I originally thought there were always eight but learned that the number can vary), every letter on the board will be used. Here are the nonspangram answers:

READ, REST, PAINT, SHOWER, STRETCH, EXERCISE, MEDITATE

Today’s Strands spangram

Today’s Strands spangram is METIME. To find it, look for the M that’s three letters down on the far-left row, and march straight across.

Technologies

Everything Announced at Apple Event 2025: iPhone Air, iPhone 17, AirPods Pro 3 and New Apple Watches

Apple’s annual September reveal of its latest mobile devices featured the brand new iPhone Air, AirPods Pro 3 with heart-rate sensing, the iPhone 17 lineup and new Apple Watches.

Each September, Apple’s product release playbook dials up the unveiling of the company’s newest line of iPhones, along with a variety of complementary gadgets. On Tuesday, the company took the wraps off the iPhone 17 in all its variations, most notably the new skinny iPhone Air, along with new Apple Watches — Series 11 and Ultra 3 — and an upgrade to its 2-year-old AirPods Pro 2 earbuds.

Along with the hardware, Apple is rolling out the new versions of the devices’ respective operating systems, iOS 26 and WatchOS 26, both of which have been in public beta all summer. (The final version of iOS 26 will be available on Monday, Sept. 15.) The new Liquid Glass interface design may even seem routine to you by now.

Many of the new devices’ capabilities come from new features in their operating systems, and throughout Apple stressed health and fitness as one of the primary drivers. It deemphasized how many of the features’ analysis capabilities — notably most of the new heart-rate sensing and Live Translation in the AirPods Pro 3 — really rely on the iPhone for their heavy lifting.

Given Apple’s struggles with its AI efforts, especially given how much it stressed Apple Intelligence at previous events, the company came as close to downplaying it as it could: There was only the occasional mention of features being driven by AI and the increased neural power in the new A19 Pro processor. And despite no discussion of smart home tech, there was a brief hint in the iPhone Air announcement.

For more in-the-moment commentary, check out ourApple Event live blog.

Don’t miss any of our unbiased tech content and lab-based reviews. Add CNET as a preferred Google source.

iPhone 17 boasts a better screen

The update to Apple’s most mainstream model comes in pastel colors. Notably, the base iPhone 17 now has a ProMotion (120Hz VRR) display, which was formerly only on the Pro models. The screen is larger (6.3 inches) and brighter (up to 3,000 nits) with an improved scratch- and glare-resistant coating. ProMotion has been a much-wanted upgrade; I think there’s probably some dancing going on right now. Inside, it incorporates the A19 chip with a five-core GPU and adds fast charging.

The new front camera has an 18-megapixel square sensor for more flexibility in framing, alongside a larger field of view to enable Center Stage and stabilization. It still has two cameras, though the main camera is bumped to 48 megapixels via Dual Fusion or 24 megapixels as standard.

It starts at $799 in the US — the 16E remains in the line at $599 — and all the iPhones are available for preorder now. It’s £799 in the UK and AU$1,399 in Australia.

The iPhone Air is thin but powerful

Thin seems to be in for phones this year — at least for manufacturers, since buyers don’t seem to be quite as interested and iPhone buyers even less so. Did anyone ask for a super thin iPhone? But in the continuing absence of a foldable iPhone model, what’s a company to do? Behold the iPhone Air, at 5.6mm thick.

It has a polished titanium frame and Ceramic Shield on both sides, which makes some people just want to touch it. According to the company, it’s almost entirely battery on the inside, with Apple claiming all-day battery life.

It’s got high-end specs, too: a 6.5-inch ProMotion XDR display and the A19 Pro processor found in the Pro models. The processor incorporates neural accelerators into each GPU core (six of them), bigger caches and more, giving it quite a bit of computing power.

A new N1 chip and C2 modem improve connectivity (Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6) and power conservation. The device has 48-megapixel Fusion and 12-megapixel wide-angle cameras, the Center Stage front camera, and a way to combine front and back cameras live.

It requires all-new accessories, including a MagSafe pack (80 hours) and a thin, translucent case. It starts at $999 (£999, AU$1,799).

iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max deliver a love letter to videographers

The flagship iPhone Pro models tend to differ only by screen size (now 6.3 and 6.9 inches), and their unique features are made possible by their higher-powered processors, more flexible camera arrays and other component differences over the lower-end models.

Like the Air, the iPhone 17 Pro uses an A19 Pro processor with updated cooling and thermal management — a vapor chamber — and has a Ceramic Shield back and front. Apple promises 39 hours of video playback.

The cameras are usually the highlight of the Pro, and that remains true: It has an 18-megapixel front Center Stage camera and a triple-camera Fusion Telephoto system, with three 48-megapixel cameras, including a 4x-8x telephoto for a maximum of 200mm equivalent. The phones can capture ProRes Raw and Genlock (to synchronize cameras for video), which should tickle the fancy of pro videographers.

The Pros now come in orange, which isn’t everyone’s favorite, and there’s a new 2TB storage option. They start at $1,099 (£1,099, AU$1,999).

Apple Watch Series 11, Watch SE and Watch Ultra 3 get redesigns

The Apple Watch Series 10 is our Editors’ Choice for smartwatches. The next-generation Watch Series 11 shrinks the thickness, with a more scratch-resistant front glass. It adds 5G support and better power management for up to 12 hours of battery life. A new Flow watch face takes advantage of Liquid Glass visuals. It adds blood pressure tracking (based on blood flow) to find indications of high blood pressure and sleep score from WatchOS 26. Prices start at $399 (£369, AU$679).

There are new bands in new colors, too.

It’s been three years since the last iteration of the Watch SE. Now, we get the Watch SE 3, with the new S10 chip with 5G wireless. It still delivers 18-hour battery life and an always-on display. There’s wrist temperature sensing for ovulation tracking, it gets sleep apnea tracking, sleep score and more. Prices start at $249 (£219, AU$399), and preorders start now.

Apple’s top-of-the-line smartwatch, the Ultra 3, is updated over the Watch Ultra 2 with a wide-angle OLED (smaller bezels mean more display area). Apple has given it emergency-related satellite connectivity, which required a new antenna and receiver. It also comes with increased battery life. Prices start at $799 (£749, AU$1,399).

AirPods Pro 3 upgrade includes live translation

The AirPods Pro 2 version released in 2023 offered only incremental hardware upgrades over the 2022 models (hence the lack of a name change). The AirPods Pro 3 are smaller, with an updated design that introduces foam-ish eartips for better noise isolation and upgraded active noise cancellation, live translation with adaptive ANC for better focus on the speaker, five sizes of ear tips and IP57 water resistance. Fitness enhancements include heart-rate and calorie tracking, among other updates, which come from iOS. Battery life increases to eight hours with ANC and 10 hours with transparency.

The live translation can be somewhat awkward, though, or as CNET’s Macy Meyer puts it, it’s fluent in convenience, not culture. The price hasn’t changed; they still start at $249 (£219, AU$429).

Notable new accessories for the iPhones

The iPhone Air debuts with new accessories. If you want to keep it thin and still have some level of protection, Apple is offering a $39 polycarbonate bumper that wraps around the edges. Aside from drop protection, I know I’d need it simply to keep the slight phone from slipping out of my hands. There is also a traditional $49 clear MagSafe Case along with an opaque Beats-branded polycarbonate case for $45. If for some reason you want to turn your ultrathin phone into a thicker one with longer battery life, you can pick up the $99 MagSafe battery.

The redesign of the camera section of the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max means it needs a new case design, and in addition to all the newly designed versions of the usual cases Apple introduced a $59 MagSafe case made of a new TechWoven material — colored yarns of recycled polyester woven into a textured material and coated with polyurethane, or PTU. Presumably, it will fare better than the FineWoven cases Apple released with the iPhone 15.

You can also get a novel (for Apple) $59 Beats Kickstand Case, which looks like the standard polycarb case. The kickstand, though, isn’t a kickstand; it’s a handstrap with a small bit on the end that you can use for standing the case on its side. The kickstand case also comes in a version for the iPhone 17.

For many of the iPhone cases Apple launched yesterday, the company introduced magnetic attachment points. That makes them compatible with its new $59 Cross-Body Strap. On one hand, I’m not sure I want to trust my $1,200 phone to some magnets or my propensity to walk into walls and doorways. On the other, it’s probably safer than my back pocket.