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How to Get Your iPhone Ready for Trade-In at the Apple Store for the iPhone 17


By Timothy Teoh September 18, 2025

The iPhone 17 is just around the corner, and if you’re planning to trade in your old iPhone to upgrade, the process at the Apple Store at The Exchange TRX can be smooth and rewarding. To make sure you get the best trade-in value and your data is secure, here’s a simple guide to help you prepare your device.

1. Check the Trade-in Value

Before you head to the store, it’s good to know the value of your current device. Apple offers competitive trade-in values. For example, the iPhone 16 Pro Max could be worth up to RM4,400, depending on its condition. Visit the Apple website to check the estimated value of your device based on its model and condition. This gives you a ballpark idea of what to expect.

2. Prepare Your Device for the Trade-In Process

A little preparation can make the whole process quicker and more efficient. Here’s what you need to do:

  • Unpair Your Apple Watch: If you’ve paired an Apple Watch with your iPhone, make sure to unpair it before you visit the store. You can do so by following these steps:
    • Keep your Apple Watch and iPhone close together as you unpair them
    • Open the Apple Watch app on your iPhone
    • Go to the My Watch tab and tap All Watches
    • Tap the info button (the ‘i’ logo’) next to the watch you want to unpair
    • Tap Unpair Apple Watch
  • Backup Your Data: The most important step is backing up your data, which you can do so via iCloud. Here’s how you can do it:
    • Connect your device to a Wi-Fi network
    • Go to Settings > [your name], and tap iCloud
    • Tap iCloud Backup
    • Tap Back Up Now. Stay connected to your Wi-Fi network until the process has finished. Under Back Up Now, the date and time of your last backup will be displayed

For this step, you’d want to make sure that you have enough iCloud storage space. Alternatively, you can also back up with your Mac, or even your PC.

Important: Do not manually delete content from iCloud (contacts, photos, etc.), as it will be erased from all devices linked to your iCloud account.

  • Cancel Your AppleCare Plan (if applicable): If you have an AppleCare+ subscription, make sure to cancel it before you trade in your iPhone. You can do this directly through the Apple Support website or the Apple Support app.

3. Sign Out of iCloud and iTunes/App Store

Once you’ve backed up your data and unpaired your Apple Watch, sign out of iCloud and the iTunes & App Store. Here’s how:

  • If you’re using iOS 10.3 or later, tap Settings > [your name]. Scroll down and tap Sign Out. Enter your Apple Account password and tap Turn Off
  • If you’re using iOS 10.2 or earlier, tap Settings > iCloud > Sign Out. Tap Sign Out again, then tap Delete from My [device] and enter your Apple Account password. Then go to Settings > iTunes & App Store > Apple Account > Sign Out

4. Visit The Exchange TRX Apple Store for the Trade-In

After completing all the above steps, you’re ready to head to the Apple Store at The Exchange TRX. Once you arrive, a specialist will inspect your iPhone and determine the value based on a variety of factors, including battery health, display condition (cracks, scratches, etc.), overall build quality (dents, chips, etc), and more.

5. Complete the Trade-In Process

Once you’ve agreed on the trade-in value, the specialist will walk you through the remaining steps. If you’re upgrading to the latest iPhone, the specialist will help you transfer your data to your new device, ensuring everything is set up just the way you like it.

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