Microsoft has launched a new smartphone trade-in program designed to convince iPhone users to switch to a Windows Phone device. A company representative said the offer is part of Microsoft's Recycle for Rewards program that allows customers to trade in old electronics like smartphones, tablets and even Xbox consoles in exchange for a Microsoft Store gift card.
Redmond is inviting those with gently used iPhone 4S or iPhone 5 smartphones to trade them in. Microsoft will issue a gift card valued at a minimum of $200 for each phone, we're told. The gift cards can be used at a Microsoft Store towards the purchase of a Windows Phone device or anything else the store sells.
Customers must bring their used iPhones to a Microsoft retail store in the US, Canada or Puerto Rico. Unfortunately, trade-ins are not accepted online which is a bit restrictive as there are only 77 total retail stores collectively across all participating regions. The offer is good through November 3 but you might be wise to check other options like Gazelle and NextWorth before pulling the trigger as these services typically offer a decent amount for used devices.
It is the second such promotion in less than a month as an earlier offer tempted iPad owners with a similar deal. Microsoft began accepting gently used iPad 2, 3 or 4s as credit toward a Surface RT or Pro earlier this month. That offer still stands as Microsoft will accept iPads through October 27.