Apple launches recycling in the UK, France and Germany

TOY MAKER FOR THE WELL HEELED Apple has expanded its recycling programme to the UK, France and Germany after a successful trial in the US.

The fruit themed firm launched the service in the US last summer, allowing customers to trade in their old Apple devices in return for an Apple gift card for the remaining value of the device.

The new version is slightly different however, as customers in Europe will receive a direct deposit into their bank accounts for the value Apple assesses that their device is worth.

All you need to do is fill in a form, and Apple will provide the packaging, assess the device and either issue a gift card or deposit the cash.

So is it any good? Not really, as it seems Apple is a bit of a cheapskate when it comes to giving back to its customers, and some of the mobile operators and specialist web sites offer better deals.

When we tried to get rid of our original 2G 8GB Iphone, we were offered a measly £7. Hardly worth the effort of typing. Meanwhile, we were offered £391 for a three year old Macbook Pro 15in that cost us £2,000 at purchase. Even the Iphone 4S return wasn't great, at £350 for an Iphone 4S 32GB. µ