{
  "id": 19128870,
  "title": "Memory crunch makes refurbished kit look a lot less secondhand",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/09/memory-crunch-makes-refurbished-kit-look-a-lot-less-secondhand",
  "topic": "science",
  "section": "Science",
  "published": "2026-11-09T09:30:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Register Science",
    "slug": "the-register-science",
    "url": "https://www.theregister.com/on-prem/2026/11/09/memory-crunch-makes-refurbished-kit-look-a-lot-less-secondhand/5307758"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "As memory prices surge, refurbished technology is gaining traction, according to suppliers. Up to three-year warranties are being offered to make secondhand equipment a more appealing option, with many businesses retaining gear for longer in an uncertain economy. Ben Caddy, senior analyst at Omdia, anticipates that by 2030, 35 percent of all hardware sold for the channel will be returned by partners, driven by the economic rationale of reclaiming value and fostering circular IT lifecycles. This trend is already helping customers unlock capital for modest refresh plans. However, supply constraints persist for refurbished smartphones, PCs, and other equipment. Jon Sansom, MD at GreenSafe IT, notes availability as a challenge. XTENTEC, a tech lifecycle specialist, offers trade-ins when customers purchase new devices, financing the residual value at the end of years two, three, or four. The company collects, refurbishes, rents, and resells equipment, ensuring equivalent support, such as HP Care Pack services, to boost refurbished equipment's appeal. Patrick Molberg, CEO of Advania Finance, emphasizes that trust is paramount for customers, and standardized verification methods are necessary. He also advocates for incorporating lifecycle services into purchasing decisions early on, rather than as an afterthought. Lastly, Joosten argues that tech companies' focus on quarterly sales and market share may hinder refurbishment efforts, advocating for a market share figure specifically for circularity.",
  "summary": "Soaring component costs and warranties of up to three years give buyers more reason to consider pre-loved hardware",
  "key_points": [
    "Memory prices surge, driving demand for refurbished tech",
    "Up to three-year warranties offered to make secondhand equipment more appealing",
    "Supply constraints persist for refurbished smartphones and PCs"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}