Introduction
Let’s be real—every business has a box (or a closet, or a whole storage room) full of old company phones. Whether you’ve upgraded your mobile fleet, downsized your team, or just swapped out devices for newer models, those unused phones are stacking up fast.
And while it’s easy to ignore them, holding onto old devices isn’t harmless. Without a solid Device Lifecycle Management plan, those phones could become security risks, financial drains, and even environmental hazards.
So what should you do with them? Let’s break it down.
The Hidden Costs of Keeping Unused Devices
A box of old, unused phones might sound harmless, but it could cause problems for your organization if the devices are not handled properly. Here’s why you shouldn’t just toss your old mobile devices into storage when they’re no longer being used:
1. Security Risks
Even powered off, old phones can be a cybersecurity nightmare. If they haven’t been wiped properly, they’re still holding onto sensitive corporate data, just waiting for someone to get their hands on them. And if they’re still connected to accounts or networks? That’s a backdoor you don’t want to leave open.
2. Wasted Money
Mobile devices depreciate fast. Letting them sit in storage instead of selling or repurposing them is like leaving cash in a drawer and never touching it. A smart Device Lifecycle Management strategy ensures you get value back—whether through resale, trade-ins, or internal redistribution.
3. Environmental Hazards
Old devices aren’t just clutter—they’re e-waste. Tossing them in the trash isn’t just wasteful; it’s dangerous. Phones contain toxic materials like lead and mercury, which can harm the environment if not disposed of properly.
4. Unnecessary Upgrades
Not every outdated device needs to be replaced. Bleeding edge new tech may seem cool, but many older phones are still perfectly functional. The average lifespan of an enterprise smartphone is currently 2.4 years. If that sounds too short, it’s because it is. At LINQ, we know of many enterprises that still use 5-year-old phones in their fleet, and for good reason: many devices still function perfectly and receive support many years after newer models are released. There’s no shame in using older models. With a little refurbishing, you can extend their lifecycle instead of spending money on brand-new replacements.
5. Hidden Service Costs
Think those unused phones aren’t costing you anything? Think again. You can reset them and wipe them all you want, but if you don’t reach out to your service provider or MSP to have the devices removed from your carrier plan (and MDM licenses, if applicable), you’ll continue to overspend on your monthly billing. You could be racking up charges without even realizing it. A Device Lifecycle Management plan helps eliminate these unnecessary expenses.
Smarter Ways to Handle Old Devices
Regardless of where you’re keeping that box or what its future holds (let’s be real, it’s probably not going anywhere), it’s essential that all devices are wiped completely of all data. But if you’re feeling especially proactive, here are a few things you can do with your unused mobile devices:
1. Before any next step – Wipe and Secure Them
Before doing anything else, make sure all corporate data is completely erased. A proper data-wiping process prevents security breaches and ensures compliance.
2. Trade Them In
Many device manufacturers and carriers offer trade-in programs, letting you swap old devices for credit toward new ones. It’s an easy way to offset upgrade costs.
3. Donate to a Good Cause
Your old devices might not be useful to your team anymore, but they could make a huge difference for schools, nonprofits, or community organizations. Bonus: donations may be tax-deductible.
4. Keep Backup Devices on Hand
Today’s mobile devices are rugged and can easily handle a fall or two, especially if they’re in a case. However,
accidents happen. Keeping a stash of pre-configured backup phones ensures you’re ready if an employee loses or breaks a device.
5. Recycle Responsibly
If a device is beyond saving, don’t just throw it away. Work with certified e-waste recyclers to ensure proper disposal. Many organizations and local governments offer free or low-cost recycling options.
6. Sell Them
There’s a big market for used corporate devices, even if they’re broken or activation locked. Selling them through reputable buyback programs or online marketplaces helps recover value while keeping devices out of landfills.
7. Implement a Device Lifecycle Management Strategy
Having a plan for Device Lifecycle Management keeps your organization running smoothly. A structured process—from procurement to retirement—saves money, reduces waste, and ensures security.
Why Work With LINQ for Device Lifecycle Management?
Managing your company’s mobile devices doesn’t have to be a headache. At LINQ, we take care of the entire Device Lifecycle Management process so you don’t have to.
Here’s how we help:
- End-to-End Support – From procurement to retirement, we handle everything.
- Cost Savings – We maximize the value of your devices through smart upgrades, resale, and trade-ins.
- Carrier Independence – Keep your current devices and plans—without the carrier headaches.
- White-Glove Service – Our U.S.-based team provides personalized support to simplify your mobile management.
Ready to take control of your mobile device strategy?
Let’s talk. Contact LINQ today to streamline your Device Lifecycle Management and save time, money, and hassle.
