{
  "id": 3742646,
  "title": "Is your really old iPhone still worth anything or just e-waste? How to tell",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/27/is-your-really-old-iphone-still-worth-anything-or-just-e-waste-how-to",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-08-27T13:28:37.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "ZDNet",
    "slug": "zdnet",
    "url": "https://www.zdnet.com/article/is-old-iphone-still-worth-anything-or-just-e-waste-how-to-tell/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The ZDNET article explores the potential value of an old iPhone 4 from 2011 and provides guidance on how to determine whether it is worth keeping or disposing of as e-waste. The author, who has a background in tech, has fond memories of this device as it was the first iPhone that truly felt like modern iPhones. Despite its limitations, such as a slow A8 processor and 8GB of storage, the author was able to revive the phone using an old-style 30-pin dock connector. The phone has Wi-Fi connectivity but only on a 2.4Ghz hotspot, which limits its functionality. Additionally, the iPhone 4 cannot authenticate with iCloud, iCloud reset, or access the App Store due to outdated security protocols. While the device can function as a media player, camera, or possibly control home networking devices, its limitations make it impractical for most modern needs.",
  "summary": "I found my old iPhone 4 in a drawer and wondered: Does it work? Is it worth anything? What should I do with it? I went looking for answers.",
  "key_points": [
    "The iPhone 4 from 2011 is explored for potential value.",
    "It has limited functionality due to slow processor and 8GB storage.",
    "The device is impractical for modern needs despite media player and camera capabilities."
  ],
  "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."
}