Recycle Old Cell Phones and Tablet Devices in California

Cell phones and tablet computers are rapidly becoming the computer technologies most used by almost everyone. From the latest iPad or Android smart phone to older versions of the same devices, we all own and use these powerful, but portable devices on a daily basis. And, like desktop PCs, laptops and notebooks, cell phones and tablets are soon obsolete and get replaced frequently. In many homes and businesses, older versions get put into drawers and forgotten about as soon as the latest model appears. Also like other computers and electronic devices, smart phones and tablets should not be sent to landfills.

Containing the same hazardous materials and valuable metals, along with sophisticated lithium batteries, proper disposal and recycling is essential for every cell phone and tablet device. Properly recycled, many of the valuable materials can be recovered while toxic components are properly handled. Many of the computer recycling companies listed in our California Computer Recycling directory are happy to accept these smaller electronic devices and will properly deal with them. Wherever you are located, you’ll find a recycling organization or company to help you get rid of old devices you no longer need. Here are good options for clearing out the unwanted electronic clutter of out-of-date and unused cell phones, tablet computers, e-readers, and other handheld devices:

• Selling Your Older Devices – If a cell phone, tablet or other portable device you are no longer using is of recent design, such as Android phones and tablets or Apple iPhones and iPads, you might be surprised that it has considerable value. A number of companies specialize in buying and re-selling these devices. You can find them by searching on the Internet with the phrases “sell cell phone” or “sell tablet.” Once you contact the company, you can send your old equipment to them and receive cash in return. To be salable, your device needs to be recent, fully functional, and come with its original charging device and accessories.
• Donate Cell Phones & Tablets – From educational institutions to specialty charitable organizations, donating your operational, but unwanted tablet computers, smart phones, and e-readers to non-profit organizations is a great option. They accept working units, complete with chargers and accessories, and then reset and clear them and make them available to people who need, but cannot afford such devices. You’ll get a tax-deduction from your donation and your device will have a new life helping a worthy student or person with a special need. Search for “donate cell phone” or “donate tablet” to find organizations that will make excellent use of your obsolete devices.
• Recycle or Dispose of Devices Safely – Most local computer recycling facilities will accept your smart phone, tablet, or other handheld electronic devices and will recycle them, just as they do with desktop PCs or laptops. Operational or not, your device will be properly handled and processed to recover valuable materials and dispose of hazardous materials properly. You can find an electronics recycling company in your local area by using the interactive maps and directories on our website.
• Data Security Matters – Before using any of the above methods to get rid of old unwanted small devices like phones, tablets and e-readers, it’s important to make sure your personal data, like contact lists, photos, videos and other data can’t be accessed. All such devices have a hard reset or factory reset function available that clears all data stored on the device and returns it to its original state with no stored personal data. The method for doing this varies from device to device, but can be found in the device’s manual or on the Internet. Use Google, Yahoo or Bing and search for the words “hard reset” along with the brand and model number of your device, and you’ll find simple instructions for clearing your data.

Simplify Your Life by Properly Disposing of Handheld Devices

If you’re like most Californians, you have a small collection of cell phones, tablets, e-readers and other small electronic devices. While they once were important to you, you’ve replaced them with updated models and put the old ones away somewhere. Dig out those old devices and donate, sell, or recycle them. You’ll streamline your life and benefit others, along with keeping our landfills clear of materials that can harm the environment. At California Computer Recycling, we’re here to help you find the best possible ways to deal with out-of-date and unused electronic equipment.