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Automated Machines To Recycle Phones For Money
judgecorp writes "EcoATM is going to install machines which give money for old phones across the U.S. The system, shown at CES, takes a photo of any phone or other gadget put in its tray, and provides a data cable (for every kind of phone?) to check it is working. The machine offers a quote based on the current used price, and pays up on the spot."
Seems stealing phones just got a lot less risky...
This is a nice idea, but surely the condition of the device matters too? I'm sure a cracked iPhone 4S wouldn't be worth as much as one in mint condition.
What do these recycling companies do with these phones anyway?
Summation 2
take my plastic replica with a 5$ microcontroller that pretends it's an iphone
These machines are not going to hand out cash like an ATM, because they'd have to be refilled and they'd have to be more secure.
The machines will probably require you to insert an ATM card or credit card, so your identity will be associated with the transaction and the stolen phone you just tried to sell it. Even better, maybe they'll give you a coupon or "gift card" good for 10% off a new phone (upon activation of 2 year contract).
Eventually, the penalty for selling a stolen phone to this machine will be death, because you tried to take money from a corporation. Stealing the phone itself will carry a penalty of a $5 fine because all you did was steal from a human being.
You are welcome on my lawn.
Keep your old phone.
Oliver's law of assumed responsibility: If you're seen fixing it, you will be blamed for breaking it.