Samsung Pakistan Launches Online Trade-In Program on Official eStore, Starting with Lahore
Samsung Pakistan has launched a first-of-its-kind online trade-in program on its official eStore, allowing customers to exchange old smartphones for instant credit toward new Galaxy devices. The initiative marks Pakistan’s first fully digital, brand-managed trade-in experience, moving away from fragmented in-store exchanges to a transparent, end-to-end online process.
The announcement was made by Javaid Ikram, who confirmed that the program is currently live as a pilot in Lahore, with plans to expand nationwide in later phases.
Shift Toward Direct-to-Consumer Sales
The new trade-in feature reflects Samsung’s broader push toward direct-to-consumer (D2C) sales in Pakistan. While online marketplaces such as Daraz have traditionally dominated smartphone e-commerce, Samsung is increasingly focusing on its own digital ecosystem to improve margins and build direct relationships with customers.
“This milestone makes premium technology more accessible, affordable, and sustainable for Pakistani consumers,” Ikram said in a post announcing the launch.
How the Online Trade-In Works
Through Samsung’s official eStore, customers can submit eligible smartphones from any brand for instant valuation. The approved value is applied immediately as a discount at checkout when purchasing a new Galaxy device. The process is fully online, with no in-store visits required.
Device valuation is based on factors such as brand, model, physical condition, and functionality. While Samsung has not disclosed exact benchmarks, industry standards typically consider cosmetic wear, battery health, and hardware performance. The service also supports doorstep exchange, enhancing convenience for buyers.
The trade-in feature is integrated into Samsung’s existing D2C infrastructure and may be linked with installment plans and extended warranty options already available on the eStore.
Part of a Broader Ecosystem Strategy
The online trade-in rollout builds on Samsung’s recent initiatives in Pakistan. Earlier this year, Samsung partnered with Zong to introduce structured trade-in options for the Galaxy S26 Series through Zong customer service centers nationwide.
Samsung also operates a recycling program via its authorized service providers, where customers can exchange old phones for vouchers. The new eStore trade-in enhances this model by offering instant price reductions instead of vouchers, simplifying the upgrade process.
Market Timing and Growth Potential
The launch comes as Pakistan’s e-commerce market continues rapid expansion. Industry estimates suggest online retail sales could exceed PKR 500 billion by the end of 2026, with smartphones remaining one of the top-selling categories. Rising mobile internet usage and increasing comfort with online purchases have further strengthened the case for D2C innovation.
Sustainability and Affordability Focus
In a challenging economic environment marked by inflation and currency pressure, smartphone affordability remains a key concern. Samsung’s trade-in program lowers the effective cost of upgrades, particularly for middle-income consumers seeking premium devices. The company has also emphasized sustainability, with recycled and reused devices forming part of its environmental strategy.
What Comes Next
The Lahore-only rollout suggests Samsung is testing logistics, valuation accuracy, and customer response before expanding nationwide. Javaid Ikram credited project lead Musayyab Alqai and team members Bilal Athar, along with local and regional support teams, for executing the initiative.
Industry observers say Samsung’s move could prompt competitors to introduce similar digital trade-in models as D2C channels gain importance in Pakistan’s evolving retail landscape. Whether the program becomes a market benchmark will largely depend on its performance during the pilot phase.