EE has launched a new range of refurbished smartphone plans, offering pre-owned Apple iPhones and Samsung Galaxy devices bundled with airtime at lower monthly prices.
The new plans combine refurbished handsets with EE airtime through its Flex Pay structure, allowing customers to spread the cost of a device over up to 36 months rather than paying upfront.
EE’s refurbished range starts at £31 per month, lowering the monthly cost of premium smartphones that typically sell for far more when purchased new.
The launch reflects a broader shift toward refurbished technology in the UK, particularly among younger buyers who increasingly prioritise cost, longevity, and environmental impact when upgrading to the best phones and best Android phones.
EE’s research shows that many younger customers no longer view pre-owned devices as a compromise, instead treating refurbished phones as a practical alternative to buying new.
That shift aligns with wider industry trends, as mobile networks and retailers look to extend device lifespans amid rising handset prices and slower upgrade cycles.
Each refurbished phone in EE’s range undergoes a 53-point inspection covering battery health, cameras, speakers, and ports, with repairs carried out using manufacturer-approved parts.
EE also includes an extended warranty that covers manufacturer faults for the duration of the customer’s plan, going beyond the standard warranty typically offered with new devices.
Students taking out a refurbished Flex Pay plan receive a 40% discount on airtime, reducing monthly costs and making refurbished flagship phones more accessible for younger buyers.
Sustainability and environmental impact
Refurbished devices also play a role in reducing environmental impact by limiting demand for new materials and cutting electronic waste.
Lifecycle assessments referenced by EE show that refurbished phones can significantly reduce carbon emissions, raw material use, and water consumption compared with buying new devices over similar timeframes.
By integrating refurbished phones into long-term contracts, EE is aligning affordability with sustainability at a time when both factors increasingly influence purchasing decisions.
The refurbished smartphone range is available now through EE’s website, with customers able to spread handset costs over up to 36 months and access EE’s network, customer support, and a standard cooling-off period.
EE has not indicated whether additional handset models will be added to the refurbished range over time.
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