Although it is arguably the most popular smartphone in the world, the major criticism of the iPhone has always been the price tag.
The latest iPhone 12 range starts at $1,199 and the more expensive models come in at $2,300.
To make the device more affordable for more Australians, Coles has made the decision to start stocking a ‘refurbished’ iPhone 7 32GB for just $259.
The recycled devices are closely inspected before they are put on sale, said the supermarket chain, and have been data wiped and cross-checked against the national police lost and stolen database.
The phones come with a 30-day satisfaction guarantee and 12-month warranty.
The new deal is part of a partnership with Boost Mobile and will see the recycled iPhones come loaded with a $10 SIM card.
“Coles has had a strong mobile phone offering for many years, and this partnership with Boost to offer quality refurbished smartphones is another great way we can deliver value for our customers in a more sustainable way,” said Coles General Manager of non-food products Jonathan Torr.
To launch the deal, Boost commissioned research to ask parents with children aged between 10 and 17 how they felt about buying phones for their children.
It found 44 per cent wanted to spend $300 or less on a phone for their child.
Boost Mobile’s founder Peter Adderton told the Daily Telegraph the refurbished phones are a great option for families heading into the Christmas season.
“It’s cost savings before Christmas and refurbished phones are now much more widely accepted,” he said.
“If you have a family of three kids and they all want the new iPhone, a brand new iPhone will set them back a significant amount.
“They are a great product and a great price and almost as good as a new one and it’s now convenient.”