Apple iPhone owners have been urged to check one simple setting that could make a big difference when trading in their device. It’s been a very different year for Apple in 2026. Its next-generation iPhone 18 range wasn’t released during its autumn launch event. Instead, the US tech giant opted to introduce upgraded Pro models and its first-ever foldable phone, the iPhone Duo. Rumours suggest the standard iPhone 18 models won’t arrive until early next year, shaking up Apple’s traditional September upgrade cycle and leaving millions of shoppers waiting longer than usual to make the switch.
But along with that wait being frustrating, the delay could also come at a cost. Anyone hoping to trade in their existing iPhone when the new models arrive should pay close attention to its condition, particularly the battery.
According to trade-in site Music Magpie, an iPhone with battery health below 80 percent could be worth almost £100 less than one in better condition.
That’s because a battery health reading above 80 percent is required for a device to qualify for its top ‘Excellent’ condition grading.
Thankfully, checking this crucial information takes just a few seconds. Simply head to Settings > Battery > Battery Health to see how your iPhone is performing.
Battery condition isn’t the only thing that can affect its resale value. Cracked screens, cosmetic damage, faulty features and other imperfections can all knock money off a trade-in offer.
Apple hasn’t confirmed when it will launch its standard iPhone 18 models, but an announcement is expected in spring 2027.
If you’re planning to upgrade when they arrive, it’s worth taking extra care of your current device now. Keeping it in good condition and monitoring battery health could help secure a better trade-in price when the time comes.
Music Magpie’s Joe Armstrong warned that the delayed launch could change the usual depreciation pattern for Apple’s phones.
He said: “Trade-in valuations for iPhones have held firm this year compared to previous years where we usually see pre-launch price drops, however with the basic iPhone 18 models arriving early in 2027, this could shift the timeline entirely.
“A spring release would move the goalposts for typical depreciation cycles and prompt consumers to trade in their existing hardware much earlier.”
