TL;DR
Apple refreshed its trade-in payout table for January 2026, cutting many iPhone, iPad and Apple Watch maximums by $5–$20 while substantially raising values for several Mac models. The update, noted by MacRumors and reported by 9to5Mac, shows the largest jumps on MacBook Pro, MacBook Air and iMac listings.
What happened
Apple revised the maximum trade-in amounts it lists for iPhones, iPads, Macs and Apple Watches in January 2026. Most mobile device entries—many iPhone, iPad and Apple Watch models—saw modest reductions, typically between $5 and $20. By contrast, several Mac listings increased sharply: the MacBook Pro maximum rose to $2,515 (up $1,755 from the previous table), the MacBook Air jumped to $900 (up $360), and the iMac climbed to $875 (up $500). A small number of Mac entries fell or remained unchanged: the Mac mini dropped by $40 to $340 and the Mac Studio and some Apple Watch models held steady. The change was first highlighted by MacRumors and summarized in a 9to5Mac report that includes the full new payout table and links to Apple’s trade-in terms.
Why it matters
- Higher Mac trade-in maximums could make upgrading to new Apple laptops and desktops more financially attractive for some owners.
- Smaller reductions in iPhone, iPad and Apple Watch values may affect timing for sellers who rely on Apple’s trade-in program for device credit.
- Changes in published maximums can alter resale strategies for consumers comparing Apple’s trade-in offer against third-party buyers or trade-in services.
- Frequent adjustments indicate Apple re-evaluates trade-in pricing in response to market and inventory factors.
Key facts
- Many iPhone models saw reductions of $10–$20; example: iPhone 16 Pro Max maximum fell $20 to $650.
- iPhone SE (3rd gen) and several older iPhone models remained unchanged in the new table (e.g., iPhone 13 and SE 2nd gen).
- iPad Pro maximum decreased $10 to $685; iPad Air dropped $15 to $400; iPad mini remained at $255.
- MacBook Pro maximum increased from $760 to $2,515, a rise of $1,755 (about 231%).
- MacBook Air maximum rose from $540 to $900, an increase of $360 (about 66.7%).
- iMac maximum increased by $500 to $875; Mac Pro increased by $695 to $3,215.
- Some Mac models did decline: Mac mini fell $40 to $340; Mac Studio stayed unchanged at $1,030.
- Apple Watch entries mostly dipped by $5–$20; Apple Watch Ultra 2 and some older models stayed at the same listed value.
What to watch next
- Whether Apple will make additional updates to trade-in maximums later this quarter — not confirmed in the source.
- If the higher Mac values reflect a broader shift in Apple’s buyback strategy or inventory positioning — not confirmed in the source.
- How resale marketplaces and third-party trade-in services respond to Apple’s new published maximums — not confirmed in the source.
Quick glossary
- Trade-in value: The maximum amount a company lists it will credit or pay when a customer trades an eligible used device toward a new purchase or store credit.
- Maximum payout: The highest possible trade-in amount shown in a pricing table, often contingent on device condition and configuration.
- MacBook Pro: Apple’s line of higher-performance laptops intended for professional and power users.
- iPad Pro: Apple’s higher-end tablet model, positioned for more intensive creative and productivity tasks than standard iPad models.
- Apple Watch Ultra: Apple’s premium smartwatch model with features aimed at endurance, outdoor and professional use.
Reader FAQ
How often does Apple update its trade-in values?
Apple adjusts its trade-in table from time to time, but the report does not specify a fixed schedule or cadence.
Do these updated values apply worldwide?
Not confirmed in the source.
Where can I find the full terms for Apple’s trade-in program?
The source points readers to Apple’s trade-in terms and conditions page for full details.
Do these updates affect Android phone trade-ins?
The article notes Apple also adjusts the maximum it will pay for select Android phones, but it does not list specific Android values in this update.
Apple Notes could get a powerful new advantage in iOS 26.4, per report Ryan Christoffel Jan 14 2026 TRADE-IN Here are Apple’s updated trade-in values for January 2026 Marcus Mendes…
Sources
- Here are Apple’s updated trade-in values for January 2026
- Apple Adjusts Trade-In Values for iPhones, Macs, and More
- Memory & wafer inflation pressures Apple's 2026 hardware …
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