A Samsung Galaxy phone is repurposed through the Galaxy Upcycling project.
The world’s largest handset producer has launched a reuse program that will allow consumers to repurpose their old mobile devices.
As described by Motherboard, the OEM plans to release a tool that lets consumers unlock old phones running obsolete software, and replace the outdated programs with new systems allowing the devices to serve specific functions. This will involve fully removing old versions of the Android operating system.
The aim of the project, called Galaxy Upcycling (GU), is to allow consumers to repurpose unused devices and avoid sending them to a shredder for recycling. For example, Samsung used old Galaxy phones to build a bitcoin mining platform, a fish tank monitor, a home security device with facial recognition and more.
Motherboard reports Samsung partnered with repair hub iFixit, which is helping to fix old Galaxy S3 phones for use in the project.
“GU provides an environmentally responsible way for old Galaxy mobile devices to breathe new life, providing limitless possibilities and extended value for devices that might otherwise be forgotten in desk drawers or discarded,” according to a Samsung website with information about the project.
More stories about refurbishment/reuse
- Amazon shares progress in e-scrap diversion
- Trashie launches mail-in e-scrap recycling program
- Blancco’s software flags possible data security loophole
