Microsoft launches device trade-in program

Aug 13, 2020 04:14 GMT  ·  By

Microsoft is officially an Android device manufacturer, with the Surface Duo now available for pre-order and the device scheduled to go live in September for the very first customers.

And like the other device manufacturers, Microsoft is launching a trade-in program that allows you to buy its products much cheaper as long as give in another smartphone, laptop, or tablet.

Microsoft itself is ready to pay up to $700 as part of its trade-in program, and this means that you can get the Surface Duo from just $699.

Needless to say, this is quite a bargain for a dual-screen Android smartphone, but on the other hand, the $700 trade-in value is only offered for latest-generation devices.

For example, an iPhone 11 Pro Max with 512GB is the one that qualifies for such a cashback, and it goes without saying that not a lot of people are willing to give up on their brand-new iPhones for an Android device. Even if it’s made by Microsoft, that is.

Previous-generation processor

The iPhone 11 series launched last year in September, so it’s not even one year old, and this certainly reduces the likelihood of people giving up on their smartphones.

On the other hand, you can also trade in older iPhones or Android devices, albeit the payment in this regard is substantially lower. But as long as you’re willing to upgrade to a Surface Duo and get a price cut, this might be a possible way to go.

As for the Surface Duo itself, many believe the $1,399 starting price tag is just too high, especially because the device is powered by a previous-generation processor. The Duo is equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 chip at a time when flagship Android phones, like the Samsung Galaxy Note20, are already featuring the new 865+ processor.