Fast-changing consumer attitudes towards repair and reuse of mobile phones are driving a rapidly growing market for ‘circular’ devices and services which could exceed $150bn by 2027, according to a new report published today by the GSMA, which represents mobile operators worldwide.
As technology leaders prepare to gather for MWC25 Barcelona, the world’s largest and most influential connectivity event, the GSMA’s ‘Rethinking Mobile Phones: the Business Case for Circularity’ report which surveyed more than 10,000 mobile phone users across 26 countries worldwide, shows that evolving consumer attitudes, regulatory changes and the growing impacts of e-waste are converging to challenge the traditional linear business model of the mobile phone industry.
With more than 70% of consumers surveyed globally stating that they would be prepared to spend more for environmentally friendly phones, the report highlights the growing opportunity for the mobile industry to embrace circularity, not simply for positive environmental reasons, but also commercial benefits.
Within the report, a survey of 31 operators from around the world highlights how they are embracing circular business models. 90% of operators surveyed already operate at least one circular business model, with refurbishment and e-waste management being the most popular.
However, respondents recognised huge potential in scaling up further; 80% with refurb programmes thought ‘a lot more’ could be done.
This could include developing leasing, renewal and upgrade propositions which would tap into new revenue streams, increase customer loyalty, and provide quality assurance.
Steven Moore, Head of Climate Action, GSMA, said: Fast-growing consumer demand for green and refurbished phones, as well as repair services, is a fantastic business opportunity for the mobile industry.
Unlocking this requires strong collaboration across the value chain, helped by enabling policies and incentives from governments, bringing together manufacturers, mobile operators, refurbishers, repairers, and recyclers to address key barriers to unlock new revenue streams and future-proof business models.”