Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchWindows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallSellCell reported that trade-in activity in the first two days after Apple unveiled the iPhone 16 was 28.8% higher by volume and 38% higher by total value than during the comparable iPhone 15 period. The comparison involved 40 buyers in SellCell’s network and measured early trade-in activity—not Apple preorder totals or confirmed sales.
That makes the result a meaningful signal of upgrade intent, especially before iPhone 16 preorders began on September 13, 2024, but not proof that Apple sold more iPhone 16 units than iPhone 15 units.
What SellCell actually measured
SellCell compared the first two days after the September 9, 2024 iPhone 16 launch event with the equivalent period around the iPhone 15 launch. Its network included 40 independent online buyers. According to the comparison summarized by BGR, trade-in volume rose 28.8% and total trade-in value rose 38%.
SellCell said the iPhone 16 period was its strongest launch-period trade-in activity since the iPhone 13. The transactions came through SellCell’s comparison and buyback ecosystem, so they do not represent every trade-in made through Apple, wireless carriers, retailers, private marketplaces or local buyers.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches#1 Best Overall
- 【Bubble Free Built-in 9H Glass Screen Protector】 Miracase for iPhone 16 case with built-in full screen protector protect your phone screen from scratches and cracks, no gap and won't lift up the screen,and making you enjoy the sensitive touch without bubbles.
- 【Military Full Body & Unique Camera Control】SGS test standard: MIL-STD-810H-2019.SGS certificate No.: GZMR220802655103.Military-grade 8000 times drop tested. Dual layer provides 360 grad full body rugged.Unique camera lens&camera control button Protector.Different from other brands' direct hole digging design, Miracase's design focuses more on the overall protection of the phone, providing a more comfortable grip without affecting the use of camera control.
- 【Fit All Magnet Accessories】Miracase iPhone 16 phone case Built in upgraded 3rd generation magnet ring, locking and compatible with magsafe accessories, wireless charging is faster, easier, and safer. The powerful magnetism support charging from any angle, and there is no need to worry about the charger separating from the phone anymore
- 【Never Yellow Crystal Clear】Diamond hard clear back to show off the real color of your iPhone 16, always clear new as day 1
- 【PRODUCT SUPPORT】Any product issues please contact us for a replacement. Installation: install the front cover with Phone - install the back cover from the bottom-clos the camera control cover; Removal: open the camera control cover-press the bottom cover from the bottom to separate the case
Which phones people traded most
| Existing device | Share of reported trade-in volume |
|---|---|
| iPhone 15 Pro Max | 27.2% |
| iPhone 14 Pro Max | 15% |
| iPhone 15 Pro | 9.7% |
Figures reported in SellCell’s comparison and summarized by BGR.
The model mix complicates a simple Apple Intelligence explanation. The iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max already supported Apple Intelligence, yet they were among the most-traded devices. Their owners may have wanted newer cameras, the Camera Control button, an A18-series chip, promotional financing, or the latest model rather than AI access alone.
Why Apple Intelligence could have increased upgrades
Apple Intelligence created a sharper distinction between the regular iPhone 15 generation and the iPhone 16 lineup. The iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus were not included in Apple’s compatible iPhone lineup, while the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max were compatible because of their chip and memory configuration.
Owners of iPhone 15 and 15 Plus
For regular iPhone 15 owners, moving to an iPhone 16 was a direct route to Apple’s new AI features without buying an older Pro model. That compatibility gap may have made an otherwise annual upgrade more compelling.
Rank #2
- Super Magnetic Attraction: Powerful built-in magnets, easier place-and-go wireless charging and compatible with MagSafe
- Compatibility: Only compatible with iPhone 16; precise cutouts for easy access to all ports, buttons, sensors and cameras, soft and sensitive buttons with good response, are easy to press
- Matte Translucent Back: Features a flexible TPU frame and a matte coating on the hard PC back to provide you with a premium touch and excellent grip, while the entire matte back coating perfectly blocks smudges, fingerprints and even scratches
- Shock Protection: Passing military drop tests up to 10 feet, your device is effectively protected from violent impacts and drops
- Check your phone model: Before you order, please confirm your phone model to find out which product is right for you
Owners of iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max
AI was a weaker reason to upgrade because these models already qualified. Camera changes, Camera Control, performance, battery condition, storage needs, carrier credits and the desire to resell before values fell further were possible alternatives.
Owners of iPhone 14 and older models
These customers had a more conventional upgrade case involving newer processors, cameras, battery age, USB-C on the iPhone 15 generation and longer access to current software features. The available figures do not isolate which motivation drove any individual trade-in.
Other reasons the iPhone 16 may have drawn more trade-ins
- Camera Control and new camera features offered visible hardware changes.
- The A18-series chip provided a new performance platform.
- The redesigned base models may have appeared more attractive than the prior year’s incremental update.
- Carrier upgrade promotions could have reduced the effective purchase price.
- Some owners may have sold before older-device resale values declined further.
- Demand may have accumulated after a comparatively modest iPhone 15 cycle.
These are plausible contributors, not measured shares of the 28.8% increase.
The iPhone 15 comparison provides important context
SellCell reportedly found that trade-in volume during the iPhone 15 launch period was 16% lower than during the iPhone 14 launch period. The iPhone 16’s 28.8% increase therefore followed a weaker year-over-year baseline.
Rank #3
- Strong Magnetic Attraction: Aligns perfectly with wireless power bank, wallets, car mounts and wireless charging stand. The iPhone 16 magnetic case has built-in 38 super N52 magnets. Its magnetic attraction reaches 2400 gf, which is almost 7X stronger than ordinary, therefore it won't fall off no matter how it shakes when you are charging
- Crystal Clear & Never Yellow: Using high-grade Bayer's ultra-clear TPU and PC material, allowing you to admire the original sublime beauty for iPhone 16 while won't get oily when used. The Nano antioxidant layer effectively resists stains and sweat, keeping the case clear like a diamond longer than others
- 10FT Military Grade Protection: Passed Military Drop Tested up to 10 FT. This iPhone 16 clear case backplane is made with rigid polycarbonate and flexible shockproof TPU bumpers around the edge and features 4 built-in corner Airbags to absorb impact, which can prevent your Phone from accidental drops, bumps, and scratches
- Raised Camera & Screen Protection: The tiny design of 2.5 mm lips over the camera, 1.5 mm bezels over the screen, and 0.5 mm raised corner lips on the back provides extra and comprehensive protection, even if the phone is dropped, can minimize and reduce scratches and bumps on the phone. Molded strictly to the original phone, all ports, lenses, and side button openings have been measured and calibrated countless times, and each button is sensitive and easily accessible
- Compatibility & Professional Support: Only compatible for iPhone 16 Phones. We have enough confidence to provide you with quality products and services. Any concerns or questions about iPhone 16 Phone Case, please feel free to contact us
That does not show that the iPhone 15 failed. Trade-ins are affected by device durability, replacement timing, economic conditions, carrier offers, the condition of the installed iPhone base and changes in buyers’ acquisition strategies. They cannot be converted directly into Apple unit sales.
What the figures do—and do not—prove
- They do show: materially more activity among customers using SellCell’s participating buyers during a two-day launch window.
- They do not show: Apple’s preorder count, carrier activations, global shipments, sell-through, revenue or market share.
- They do not establish: that Apple Intelligence caused the increase or that the iPhone 16 was more popular among all iPhone owners.
- They do not cover: customers who upgraded without trading in a phone or who used channels outside SellCell’s network.
The safest conclusion is that early trade-ins were a stronger upgrade-intent signal than they were for the iPhone 15, not that preorder success had already been demonstrated.
Launch pricing and the cost of upgrading
SellCell’s September 2024 report listed U.S. launch prices from $799 for iPhone 16 to $1,599 for a 1TB iPhone 16 Pro Max. These were launch prices, not current or universal prices; storage, taxes, region, financing and promotions change the amount a buyer pays. See the dated report at SellCell.
Choosing where to trade in
Apple Trade In
Apple is the simplest route for someone buying directly from Apple and wanting purchase credit or an Apple Gift Card. It may pay less than an independent buyer, and a quote can change after inspection. Apple’s trade-in page says online devices generally must arrive within 14 days of receiving the replacement. Its terms require Find My to be removed and allow a revised value when the inspected condition differs from the description.
Rank #4
- PRECISION FIT FOR IPHONE 16 SERIES – Expertly designed for iPhone 16, this Commuter Series case delivers a secure, form‑fitting profile that preserves your phone’s slim feel while staying firmly in place.
- RUGGED, SHOCKPROOF DEFENSE – Dual‑layer construction combines a shock‑absorbing inner soft shell with a rigid outer layer to exceed 3X military drop standards (MIL‑STD‑810G 516.6) and made with eco-conscious materials.
- DUAL‑LAYER DURABILITY, MAGSAFE READY – Designed with a shock‑absorbing inner layer and a rigid outer shell, this case delivers dependable everyday protection while remaining fully compatible with MagSafe charging and accessories.
- POCKET‑FRIENDLY PROTECTION – A slim, durable design with textured rubber grip edges enhances handling without extra bulk, offering reliable OtterBox protection that fits seamlessly into daily life.
- QUALITY YOU CAN COUNT ON – Designed to OtterBox’s high standards for durability and performance, this case offers proven protection supported by an industry‑leading reputation.
Carrier promotions
AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile may advertise large trade-in values as monthly bill credits. Compare the required plan, installment term, activation charges, taxes, upfront payment and the credits you would lose by paying off the phone or leaving early. A promotional credit is not equivalent to immediate cash.
Independent comparison and buyback services
SellCell can compare multiple buyers and may show cash offers for devices that are difficult to trade through Apple. Its comparison page displayed dated March 10, 2026 examples, but those are historical snapshots rather than guaranteed August 2026 quotes. Gazelle offers a conventional online buyback process, while ecoATM emphasizes local kiosk speed and often shows lower payouts in comparison tables.
Private resale
Private sale can produce more for an unlocked, high-capacity phone in excellent condition, but the seller assumes listing, payment, shipping, fraud and dispute risks. It is not the best option for someone who needs a guaranteed price or immediate replacement.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Condition, locks and financing can change the result
SellCell said its network accepts some poor or faulty devices. Its September 2024 comparison gave an example in which a faulty iPhone 15 Pro Max 1TB received a $650 network valuation while Apple’s quoted value was $0. That is a vendor-specific example, not a universal rule for damaged phones.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Best Value
- 【Compatible with MagSafe】Liquid Silicone Case only compatible with iPhone 16 (6.1"). Can be adapted to wireless charging with magnetic function
- 【Durable Liquid Silicone Case】Liquid silicone rubber,surface layer smooth. Upgraded Thickness:3.0mm.Four-layer structure design anti-fingerprint,scratch-resistant performance, drop protection
- 【Full Body Protection】 Upgraded camera protection, outer lip design, slightly higher than the screen and camera, protect your iPhone screen or camera dropping or laying face down on surface
- 【Multi-color Options】We provide a variety of fashionable colors to match for iPhone 16. Choose multiple phone cases, and then you're free to match them according to the Outfit of the Day
- 【Customer Support】We offer reliable after-sales support. If you have any issues with the case, please feel free to contact us.
Before accepting an offer:
- Photograph every side of the phone and record battery health.
- Confirm the device is paid off and not blacklisted. SellCell warns that financed, blacklisted or activation-locked phones may require a separate process; see its iPhone 16 trade-in page.
- Sign out of your Apple Account, disable Find My and erase all content and settings until the setup screen appears.
- Record the quoted condition, package contents and shipping receipt.
- Compare the net payout after shipping, fees, repairs and the risk of a revised inspection value.
Repairing a damaged phone is not automatically profitable. Compare the repair cost with both the pre-repair and post-repair offers, including the time and risk involved.
Should an iPhone owner upgrade?
An iPhone 15 Pro or Pro Max owner should not upgrade solely for Apple Intelligence, because those phones already supported it. Check battery health, camera requirements, storage, display size, performance and the actual value of any carrier subsidy. For regular iPhone 15 or 15 Plus owners who want Apple Intelligence, the compatibility difference was a more substantial reason to consider the iPhone 16.
The Bottom Line
Bottom line: SellCell’s first-two-day comparison showed iPhone 16 trade-in volume up 28.8% and value up 38% versus the iPhone 15 period. It is credible evidence of stronger early upgrade intent within one 40-buyer network, but it is not evidence of higher Apple preorders or total sales.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
