The purchase of used cell phones in Brazil has been ceasing to be associated with necessity and is taking on the characteristics of a conscious, strategic, and digital choice. It is what an unprecedented survey conducted by theTrocafone, a pioneer company in the country's smartphone recommerce market.
The study conducted with over 92,000 people outlines the new profile of the Brazilian used car consumer:man (75%), between 30 and 44 years old, with an income of up to R$ 4,000 and mainly operating asself-employedMost live in the Southeast region (64%) and use their cell phones for daily and connected activities such as work, study, leisure, and content consumption.
Next are the Northeast (17.2%), South (10.6%), Central-West (4.4%), and North (3.5%) regions. In terms of education, half of the respondents have completed up to higher education.
Connectivity, streaming, and digital behavior
Highly connected, these consumers demonstrate active digital behavior. WhatsApp is the most used platform, followed by Instagram. The cell phone is used for multiple functions:
- 66.5% of respondents watch series and access streaming services,
- 44% use it for gaming
- 31.3% use it for reading
- More than76% of respondentsThey affirm to sign at least one.streaming platform, being Netflixthe favorite, followed byAmazon Prime, Disney+, Max, and Globoplay. TheSpotifyIt is the most listened-to music service among the respondents.
In daily use, the cell phone is essential for calls, messaging, and emails (82.2%), as well as an important tool for work and study (76.6%), internet browsing (70.3%), leisure (69.1%), and photo and video production (66.5%).
Research and criteria: the new online consumer
The used car consumer is also morethoroughin your purchasing journey. According to the survey:
- 88% search on Googlebefore purchasing a product or service;
- The most used marketplaces are:Mercado Livre (83%), Shopee (58%), Amazon (61%), and Magalu (40%);
- More than half useinstallment payments on the credit card;
- 65% opt for prepaid or control plans, which indicates greater rationality in consumption.
Another relevant fact is thatThe guarantee is decisive for 44% of the respondents., and50% consider safety as a fundamental criterionTrust in specialized platforms like Trocafone is growing and is seen as a competitive differentiator.
Recurring exchange and preferred brands
The research shows that the cell phone has become part of a faster consumption cycle:
- 60% change devices between 2 and 3 years;
- 17% exchange within up to 12 months.
Regarding the brands,Samsung leads with over 60% of the preference, followed by Apple and Motorola.
Although price is still the main decision factor, 89.9% of consumers cite savings as motivation. The research reveals that criteria are gaining importance, such as security, an important issue for 50% of respondents. Another highlight is the importance of the warranty: 43.9% of respondents consider this factor decisive at the time of purchase.
Sustainability is still secondary, but the trend is for growth.
Despite the environmental significance of second-hand cell phones,only 29% mentioned environmental concernas a relevant factor in the decision to purchase a used device Still, the theme tends to gain strength. According to the Global E-Waste Monitor 2024 report, the world generated 62 million tons of electronic waste in 2022, an increase of 82% compared to 2010. Most of this volume is still discarded improperly, worsening environmental impacts.
ToFlávio Peres, CEO of TrocafoneThe more discerning behavior of consumers and the increase in confidence in specialized platforms show that the used cell phone market is undergoing a significant transformation. This scenario reflects the maturation of the pre-owned car market in the country, which was previously stigmatized and is now increasingly associated with practicality, economy, and safety. Used cell phones are no longer taboo and have become an intelligent choice that offers savings, security, and a positive impact. And this is an important advancement, he states.
Trocafone and the growth of recommerce
Pioneering in the recommerce market in Brazil, Trocafone has established itself as the largest and most advanced operation for repairs and resale of pre-owned smartphones in the country. The company offers solutions for end consumers, retailers, operators, insurers, and financial institutions, promoting digital inclusion, circular economy, and significant reduction of electronic waste.
