: Companies like SellCell and SmartphonesPLUS specifically buy locked phones to harvest parts or manage insurance claims. Buyer Type Primary Motivation Consumer Flexibility and long-term savings on service plans. Traveler Avoiding international roaming charges. Reseller Maximum resale value (unlocked phones fetch 20-50% more). Repairer Genuine Apple components for repairs.

: People moving between countries often buy unlocked iPhones in one region to ensure compatibility when they move. 🛠️ Specialized "Locked" Buyers

: Buying unlocked allows users to switch to cheaper "No-Contract" or Prepaid carriers (like Mint Mobile or Visible).

: Collectors and resellers target unlocked models because they sell faster and for higher prices than carrier-locked versions on sites like eBay and Swappa.