Samsung, the South Korean tech giant, has introduced the Galaxy Easy Compensation program as part of its effort to curb electronic waste and promote responsible recycling. Debuted in South Korea on January 14, the initiative lets Galaxy smartphone owners quickly trade in their old devices without the immediate pressure to upgrade. The concept is straightforward: owners submit their device, receive a valuation, and ship it back to Samsung for assessment. If the device passes inspection, Samsung classifies it as Excellent, Good, or Recycled and issues compensation accordingly. The program is designed to give used devices a new life in the recycling stream while delivering tangible value to contributors. Samsung has signaled plans to expand the program to international markets in the near future, signaling a broader push for sustainable electronics and a circular economy. Attribution: industry press.
Jeong Ho-jin, vice president of Samsung Electronics Korea, described the program as a strategic move to extend the useful life of Galaxy devices and reinforce circular-economy goals. He noted that the initiative should increase the long-term value of Galaxy products and support reuse and recycling across markets. This stance resonates with growing consumer interest in durable electronics that retain value after use and with regulatory efforts aimed at reducing waste in Canada and the United States. Attribution: industry press.
By enabling sales of used phones without the need to purchase a new model, the program addresses environmental concerns while offering a clear economic incentive for recycling. It helps discourage premature device replacements and demonstrates that second-hand Galaxy devices can continue to serve a purpose—whether through resale, refurbishment, or parts reuse. Owners can recover a portion of their initial investment, and Samsung can reintroduce updated units into its ecosystem or partner networks. Attribution: industry press.
The lineup of supported models covers Galaxy S23, S22, S21, S20, along with the Z Fold5, Z Fold4, Z Fold3, Z Flip5, Z Flip4, and Z Flip3. Availability and valuation may vary by country, reflecting local market readiness and regulatory considerations. Attribution: industry press.
To participate, users visit Samsung.com, estimate the device value on the Galaxy Easy Compensation page, and, if the offer is accepted, follow the company’s instructions to ship the phone via courier. Upon receipt, Samsung inspects the device, classifying it as Excellent, Good, or Recycled, and provides compensation corresponding to the observed condition. The process is designed to be straightforward and transparent, with the price tied to the device’s physical state and functional viability. Attribution: industry press.
Earlier coverage noted cybersecurity vulnerabilities associated with certain Samsung smartphones, a reminder that while recycling programs add value, ongoing security updates and dependable software support remain essential for consumers. Attribution: industry press.