LOS ANGELES—For Helio L.L.C. users who have multiple electronic devices sitting in drawers at home, the mobile virtual network operator is offering a one-time shot to trade in those devices for cash.
Helio’s Trade Up program started today, and new Helio customers have 30 days from when they purchase a new device and service from the MVNO to turn in their old devices—which can not only include phones, but MP3 players, digital cameras and “gaming systems.” On the Helio Web site, users can get a free quote on how much their device is worth by giving details on its manufacturer, model and condition.
And the deal is for cash, not a Helio credit—and not an insignificant amount, either, depending on the device. A Denver customer would get about $188 (after shipping and handling) for trading in a Palm Inc. Treo 650, while a Motorola Inc. Razr V3 would net around $50.
Helio partnered with Market Velocity on the Trade Up program, and the latter company will handle the inventory of returned devices and either resell or recycle them, according to Helio spokesman Rick Heineman.The process works like this: get the trade-in quote and agree to the trade online, for as many devices as the user wants to trade—although they only get one shot. Helio then sends out a prepaid shipping label, and the user has to box up the devices and mail it in. Helio inspects the devices to make sure they match the agreed-to trade, and the customer has to mail or fax proof that they’ve purchased service and a device from Helio. Within two to three months, Helio says, the check will be in the mail.
