What to know when buying a refurbished smartphone

Refurbished smartphones are a great alternative if you want to replace your device without spending a lot of money. Plus, buying second-hand is more sustainable too. — Photo: Zacharie Scheurer/dpa

BERLIN: Many people like to replace their smartphones every few years but that doesn't necessarily mean you have to get a new device. Nowadays, refurbished phones can offer a lot of value if you know what to look for.

Giving a used device a new lease of life is clearly good for the environment. When it comes to sustainability, longer use is usually a plus, says Björn Bischoff of Germany's Environment Agency.