Applications for device evaluation and other processing related to device recycling

Abstract

Software applications and related methods for performing recycling, buying, and / or other processing of mobile phones, tablets, laptops, and or other electronic devices at service terminals described herein. In embodiments, the technology includes systems and methods related to electronic devices to facilitate service terminal processing (e.g., buying) of electronic devices by consumers. In some embodiments, the technology includes using a mobile app to identify electronic devices, assess electronic devices, resolve device issues to enable buying of electronic devices, and the like. Various other aspects of the technology are described herein.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of Chinese application CN201510645554.1, filed on October 8, 2015, entitled "Application for Equipment Assessment and Other Treatments Related to Equipment Recycling".

[0002] Cross-references to related applications

[0003] This application claims the right of the applicant to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 059,132, filed on October 2, 2014, entitled “Application for Equipment Assessment and Other Treatment in Connection with Equipment Recycling,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0004] This disclosure generally relates to methods and systems for assessing and recycling mobile phones and other consumer devices, and more particularly to software applications for facilitating identification, assessment, purchase and / or other processing related to the recycling of electronic devices. Background Technology

[0005] Consumer electronic devices are ubiquitous, including mobile phones, laptops, tablets, MP3 players, and more. Currently, there are over six billion mobile devices in use worldwide, and this number is growing rapidly; over 1.8 billion mobile phones were sold in 2013 alone. By 2017, it is projected that there will be more mobile devices in use than the human population on Earth. In addition to mobile phones, desktop and laptop computer sales exceeded 300 million units in 2013, and tablet sales surpassed laptop sales for the first time. This rapid growth in the number of mobile phones and other electronic devices is partly due to the rapid pace of their development and their increasing use in developing countries.

[0006] Due to the rapid pace of development and consumers' constant upgrading of their mobile phones and other electronic devices for the latest product features or better operational plans, a significant percentage of electronic devices are replaced each year. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the United States alone disposes of more than 370 million mobile phones, PDAs, tablets, and other electronic devices annually. Thousands upon thousands of obsolete or damaged mobile phones and other electronic devices are simply thrown into clutter drawers or otherwise kept until a suitable disposal solution becomes available.

[0007] Although many electronics retailers and mobile phone carriers offer trade-in or buyback programs for mobile phones, many old mobile phones still end up in landfills, are improperly dismantled, or are disposed of in developing countries. Unfortunately, mobile phones and similar devices often contain substances that can be harmful to the environment, such as arsenic, lithium, cadmium, copper, lead, mercury, and zinc. If not properly handled, these toxic substances can leach from decomposing landfill waste into groundwater and contaminate soil, potentially causing harm to humans and the environment.

[0008] As an alternative to retail trade-in or buyback programs, consumers can now also use service kiosks located in malls, retail stores, or other publicly accessible areas to recycle and / or sell their used mobile phones. These service kiosks are operated by ecoATM, Inc., the assignee of this application, as disclosed, for example, in U.S. Patent Nos. 8,463,646, 8,423,404, 8,239,262, 8,200,533, 8,195,511, and 7,881,965, which are collectively owned by ecoATM, Inc., and whose entire contents are incorporated herein by reference.

[0009] There remains a need to improve the ways consumers can recycle or resell their mobile phones and other electronic devices. Streamlining the recycling / resale process, optimizing the consumer experience, and preventing fraud can incentivize consumers to dispose of their old electronic devices in an efficient and environmentally friendly way. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a machine configured for recycling electronic devices according to an embodiment of this technology.

[0011] Figures 2A-2D for Figure 1 A series of perspective views of the machine, wherein some of the machine’s external panels have been removed to show the operation of the machine according to embodiments of the present technology.

[0012] Figure 3 To show the relationship with Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the various components related to the machine.

[0013] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of a suitable distributed computing environment for implementing various aspects of this technology.

[0014] Figure 5 This is a flowchart of a routine for pricing recycled electronic devices according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0015] Figure 6This is a flowchart of a routine for purchasing electronic devices at a service terminal according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0016] Figure 7A and Figure 7B This is a display diagram illustrating a screen display or graphical user interface associated with determining the purchase price of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0017] Figure 8 This is a flowchart of a routine for obtaining information about an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0018] Figures 9A-9D A series of illustrations are provided to show screen displays related to the identification of electronic devices according to embodiments of the present technology.

[0019] Figure 10 This is a flowchart of a routine for preparing a recycled electronic device according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0020] Figure 11 This is a flowchart of a routine for determining the purchase price of an electronic device controlled by a remote device according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0021] Figures 12A-12C This is a display diagram illustrating a device screen display associated with the feature of disabling remote device control according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0022] Figure 13 This is a flowchart of a routine for preparing an electronic device for sale, according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0023] Figure 14A and 14B This is a display diagram illustrating a screen display associated with a terminal that guides users in device recycling services according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0024] Figure 15 This is a flowchart of a routine for notifying a user device of a change in value, according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0025] Figure 16 This is a flowchart of a routine for providing location-based notifications according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0026] Figure 17 This is a flowchart of a routine for transmitting information about an electronic device from an electronic device to a service terminal according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0027] Figure 18 This is a flowchart of a routine for remotely pricing electronic devices for recycling at a service terminal, according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0028] Figure 19This is a flowchart of a routine for providing accessibility services to users according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0029] Figure 20 This is a flowchart of a routine for determining whether an electronic device has been correctly received by a service terminal according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0030] Figure 21 This is a flowchart of a routine for facilitating evaluation of electronic devices at a service terminal, according to an embodiment of the present technology. Detailed Implementation

[0031] The following disclosure describes various embodiments of a software application (“app”) system and method for use with mobile phones and / or other electronic devices to facilitate identification, evaluation, purchase, and / or other processes related to the recycling of electronic devices. In various embodiments, for example, the app enables a device owner to accurately assess the condition and secondhand or resale market value of his or her mobile phone and / or other electronic device. It allows the device owner to continuously recognize the market value of his or her electronic device with minimal user input, establishing certainty so that the user can have the experience of quickly and predictably selling his or her electronic device at a recycling service terminal. The app can notify users of the value of their electronic devices, guide users to the location of the recycling service terminal, and offer rewards to incentivize users to recycle their electronic devices at the service terminal. Additionally, the app can alert users to changes in the value of their electronic devices and can help users prepare for the sale and recycling of his or her electronic devices, such as by backing up user data and disabling remote device control features. At the recycling service terminal, the app can provide an assisted interface for the user and can utilize information collected before the user arrives at the service terminal to facilitate the service terminal's identification of the user and / or electronic device, and to quickly provide the user with a price, such as a previously agreed price for the electronic device.

[0032] In the following instructions and Figure 1-21 Certain details will be described herein to provide a thorough understanding of the various embodiments of the present technology. In other instances, known structures, materials, operations, and / or systems typically associated with smartphones and other handheld devices, consumer electronics, computer hardware, software, and network systems will not be shown or described in detail in the following disclosure to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the description of the various embodiments of the present technology. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present technology can be implemented without including one or more of the details set forth herein, or with other structures, methods, components, etc.

[0033] The terminology used below should be interpreted in its broadest and most reasonable manner, even when used in conjunction with the detailed description of certain examples of embodiments of this technology. In fact, some terms may even be emphasized below; however, any term intended to be interpreted in any limiting manner will be expressly defined as such in the Detailed Embodiments section.

[0034] The accompanying drawings illustrate embodiments of the present invention, but are not intended to limit its scope. The dimensions of the various elements described are not necessarily drawn to scale, and these elements may be arbitrarily enlarged to improve their recognizability. Details in the drawings, such as the location of components and certain precise connections between them, may be abstracted to exclude details that are unnecessary for a complete understanding of how the invention is made and used.

[0035] In the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals identify the same elements, or at least substantially similar elements. For ease of discussion of certain specific elements, the most important one or more numbers in some reference numerals refer to the reference numeral of the drawing in which that element was first introduced. For example, element 110 is first referenced... Figure 1 It was introduced and discussed.

[0036] Figure 1This is a perspective view of a service terminal 100 according to the present technology, which is used for recycling or other processing of mobile phones and other consumer electronic devices. For ease of reference, the term "processing" as used herein generally refers to all forms of service and operation that may be implemented and facilitated by the service terminal 100 on, with, or otherwise associated with electronic devices. Such service and operation may include, for example, selling, reselling, recycling, donating, exchanging, identifying, evaluating, pricing, auctioning, scrapping, transferring data from or to mobile phones and other electronic devices, reconfiguring, or refurbishing mobile phones and other electronic devices. For ease of reference, the term "recycling" as used herein generally refers to selling and / or buying, reselling, exchanging, donating, and / or receiving electronic devices. For example, owners may choose to sell their used electronic devices at the service terminal 100, which can be recycled for resale, repair, restoration and recovery of usable components, environmental disposal, etc. While several embodiments of the present technology have been described herein in the context of mobile phones, aspects of the present technology are not limited to mobile phones and are generally applicable to other consumer electronic devices. As non-limiting examples, these devices include various mobile phones, smartphones, handheld devices, personal digital assistants (PDAs), MP3 or other digital music players, tablets, laptops, ultrabooks and laptops, e-readers, various types of cameras, GPS devices, set-top boxes, universal remote controls, wearable computers, etc. In some embodiments, the service terminal 100 is expected to facilitate the sale and / or other handling of larger consumer electronic devices and smaller electronic devices, such as desktop computers, televisions (TVs), game consoles, etc., and smaller electronic devices such as Google... ® Google Glass™ ® Glass™), smartwatches (such as Apple Watch™, Motorola 360, etc.) ® (Moto 360) ® Android ® Wearable™ (Android) ®Wear™ devices or Pebble Steel™ watches, etc. The service terminal 100 and its various features are generally compatible, at least structurally and functionally, with U.S. Patent Nos. 8463646, 8423404, 8239262, 8200533, 8195511, and 7881965, and U.S. Patent Application Nos. 12 / 573089, 12 / 727624, 13 / 113497, 12 / 785465, 13 / 017560, 13 / 438924, and 13 / 75. The service terminals and their corresponding features described in 3539, 13 / 658825, 13 / 733984, 13 / 705252, 13 / 487299, 13 / 492835, 13 / 562292, 13 / 658828, 13 / 693032, 13 / 792030, 13 / 794814, 13 / 794816, 13 / 862395 and 13 / 913408 are similar. The disclosed technologies also include: U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 498,763, filed on September 26, 2014, entitled "Methods and Systems for Pricing and Performing Other Processes Related to the Recycling of Mobile Phones and Other Electronic Devices," filed by the applicant on September 29, 2014, entitled "Maintenance Series for Cable Assemblies for Wired Analysis, Charging, or Other Interaction with Portable Electronic Devices," filed by the applicant on September 29, 2014, entitled "Service Terminal with Supported Wireless Functions for the Recycling of Consumer Devices," filed by the applicant on October 2, 2014, entitled "Service Terminal with Supported Wireless Functions for the Recycling of Consumer Devices," filed by the applicant on October 2, 2014, entitled "Service Terminal with Supported Wireless Functions for the Recycling of Consumer Devices," filed by the applicant on October 2, 2014. The following publications were filed on November 3, 2014: Agent's Case No. 111220-8035.US00, U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 506,449, entitled "System, Related Equipment, and Method for Electrically Testing Mobile Devices at a Consumer-Operated Service Terminal"; Agent's Case No. 111220-8027.US00, U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 073,840, filed on October 31, 2014, entitled "System and Method for Recycling Consumer Electronic Devices"; Agent's Case No. 111220-8028.US00, U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 073,847, filed on October 31, 2014, entitled "Methods and Systems for Facilitating Processing Associated with Insurance Services and / or Other Services for Electronic Devices"; and Agent's Case No. 111220-8038, filed on November 6, 2014.US00, U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 076,437, entitled "Methods and Systems for Evaluating and Recycling Electronic Devices"; US00, U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 090,855, filed on December 11, 2014, entitled "Methods and Systems for Providing Information on Coupons / Promotions at Service Terminals for Recycling Mobile Phones and Other Electronic Devices"; US00, U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 090,855, filed on December 11, 2014, entitled "Methods and Systems for Providing Information on Coupons / Promotions at Service Terminals for Recycling Mobile Phones and Other Electronic Devices"; US00, U.S. Provisional Application No. 111220-8033, filed on December 11, 2014, by the applicant. The publications of US00, U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 568,051, entitled "Method and System for Identifying Mobile Phones and Other Electronic Devices"; US00, filed by the applicant on December 12, 2014, Attorney No. 111220-8037, U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 091,426, entitled "System and Method for Recycling Consumer Electronic Devices"; and US00, filed by the applicant on January 16, 2015, Attorney No. 111220-8034, U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 598,469 ... U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 598,469, U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 568,051. The following publications are included: a publication entitled "Method and System for Dynamic Pricing and Performing Other Processes Associated with the Recycling of Mobile Phones and Other Electronic Devices"; a publication filed by the applicant on March 17, 2015, with attorney number 111220-8030.US00 and U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 660,768, entitled "System and Method for Detecting Mobile Devices and Other Consumer Electronic Devices with Lasers"; and a publication filed by the applicant on March 19, 2015, with attorney number 111220-8029.US00 and U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 663,331, entitled... The disclosures include: a “Device Recycling System with Facial Recognition”; U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 169,072, filed June 1, 2015, by Attorney-at-Law No. 111220-8041.US00, entitled “Method and System for Visual Evaluation of Electronic Devices”; and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 202,330, filed August 7, 2015, by Attorney-at-Law No. 111220-8026.US00, entitled “Method and System for Robotically Driven Detection of Mobile Devices and Other Consumer Electronic Devices.” All patents and patent applications listed in the foregoing sentences are collectively owned by the applicant of this application, and their entire contents, together with any other patents or patent applications designated herein, are incorporated herein by reference.

[0037] In the illustrated embodiment, service terminal 100 is a stand-up self-service terminal configured for use by user 101 (e.g., consumer, customer, etc.) to recycle, sell, and / or perform other operations on mobile phones or other consumer electronic devices. In other embodiments, service terminal 100 may be configured for use on a workbench or similar protruding surface. Although service terminal 100 is configured for consumer use, in various embodiments, service terminal 100 and / or portions thereof may also be used by other operators, such as retail clerks or service terminal assistants, to facilitate the sale or other processing of mobile phones and other electronic devices.

[0038] In the illustrated embodiment, the service terminal 100 includes a housing 102, which is approximately the size of a conventional vending machine. The housing 102 can be manufactured using conventional methods such as metal sheet or plastic sheet. The front of the housing 102 is provided with multiple user interface devices for providing instructions and other information to the user, and / or for receiving user input and other information from the user. For example, the service terminal 100 may include a display screen 104 (e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD) or light-emitting diode (LED) display, a projection display (such as a head-up display or head-mounted device), etc.) for providing information, prompts, etc., to the user. The display screen 104 may include a touchscreen for receiving user input and responding to displayed prompts. Additionally or optionally, the service terminal 100 may include a separate keyboard or buttons for this purpose. The service terminal 100 may also include an ID reader or scanner 112 (e.g., a driver's license scanner), a fingerprint reader 114, and one or more cameras 116 (e.g., digital cameras and / or cameras, respectively identified as cameras 116a-c). The service terminal 100 may additionally include output devices, such as a label printer 110 with an outlet and an ATM 118 with an outlet. Although Figure 1Not shown, but the service terminal 100 may also include: a speaker and / or headphone jack for communicating auditory information to the user; one or more light sources for communicating visual signals or other information to the user; a telephone handset or microphone for receiving speech input from the user; a card reader (e.g., a credit / debit card reader, loyalty card reader, etc.); a receipt or voucher printer and dispenser; and other user input and output devices. These input devices may include touchpads, positioning devices such as mice, joysticks, styluses, gaming keyboards, motion sensors, scanners, eye-tracking systems, etc. Additionally, the service terminal 100 may include barcode readers, two-dimensional (QR) code readers, bag / packaging dispensers, digital signature pads, etc. In the illustrated embodiment, the service terminal 100 also includes a head 120 with a display screen 122 for displaying marketing advertisements and / or other video or graphical information to attract users to the service terminal 100. In addition to the aforementioned user interface devices, the front of the housing 102 also includes a channel plate or channel door 106 located directly below the display screen 104. As described in more detail below, the access gate is configured to retract automatically so that user 101 can place electronic devices (such as mobile phones) in detection area 108 for automatic detection by service terminal 100.

[0039] The sidewall portion of housing 102 may include multiple convenience features to assist users in recycling or otherwise disposing of their mobile phones. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, service terminal 100 includes an accessory box 128 configured to receive accessories for mobile devices that a user wishes to recycle or otherwise dispose of. Additionally, service terminal 100 may provide a free charging station 126 having multiple electrical connectors 124 for charging various mobile phones and other consumer electronic devices.

[0040] Figures 2A-2D These are a series of perspective views of the service terminal 100, wherein the housing 102 has been removed to show the selected internal components configured according to embodiments of the present technology. First, refer to... Figure 2A In the illustrated embodiment, the service terminal 100 includes a connector carrier 240 and a detection board 244, which is operably disposed behind the passage door 106. Figure 1In the illustrated embodiment, the connector carrier 240 is a carrousel configured to rotatable about a generally horizontal axis and carrying a plurality of electrical connectors 242 (e.g., approximately 25 connectors) distributed around its outer periphery. In other embodiments, other types of connector carriers (including fixed and movable configurations) may be used. In some embodiments, the connectors 242 may include a plurality of interchangeable USB connectors configured to provide power and / or exchange data for a variety of different mobile phones and / or other electronic devices. In operation, the carrousel 240 is configured to automatically rotate about its axis to place one suitable connector 242 adjacent to an electronic device (e.g., mobile phone 250) already placed on the detection plate 244 for recycling. The connector 242 can then be manually and / or automatically removed from the carrousel 240 and connected to the port of the mobile phone 250 for electrical analysis. Such analysis may include, for example, evaluation of brand, model, configuration, condition, etc., using one or more methods and / or systems specified herein and described in detail in commonly owned patents and patent applications, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0041] In the illustrated embodiment, the detection plate 244 is configured to switch back and forth between a first position and a second position (e.g., on a parallel-mounted track) to move an electronic device such as a mobile phone 250. The first position is located directly behind the passageway door 106, and the second position is located between the upper chamber 230 and the opposing lower chamber 232. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the detection plate 244 is transparent, or at least partially transparent (e.g., formed of glass, plexiglass, etc.), to allow for photographing and / or other optical evaluation of the mobile phone 250 from all or at least most of the viewing angles (e.g., top, bottom, side, etc.) using one or more cameras, mirrors, etc., mounted on or associated with the upper and lower chambers 230 and 232. When the mobile phone 250 is in the second position, the upper chamber 230 can be flipped downwards to substantially surround the mobile phone 250 between the upper and lower chambers 232. The upper chamber 230 is operatively connected to a door 238, which moves vertically in tandem with the upper chamber 230. As described above, in the illustrated embodiment, the upper chamber 230 and / or the lower chamber 232 may include one or more cameras, magnifying tools, scanners (e.g., barcode scanners, infrared scanners, etc.) or other imaging components (not shown) and a set of mirrors (also not shown) to observe, photograph, and / or perform other visual evaluations of the mobile phone 250 from multiple perspectives. In some embodiments, the one or more cameras and / or other imaging components described above are movable to facilitate device evaluation. The detection area 108 may also include a weighing scale, a thermal detector, an ultraviolet (UV) reader / detector, etc., for further evaluation of the electronic device placed therein. The service terminal 100 may further include an inclined box panel 236 for introducing the electronic device from the transparent panel 244 into a collection box 234 located at the lower part of the service terminal 100.

[0042] Service terminal 100 can be used in a variety of different ways to effectively facilitate the recycling, sale, and / or other disposal of mobile phones and other consumer electronic devices. (See also...) Figures 1-2D In some embodiments, a user wishing to sell a used mobile phone, such as mobile phone 250, approaches service terminal 100, responds to prompts on display screen 104, and identifies the type of device the user wishes to sell. The user may then be prompted to remove any casings, labels, or other accessories from the device for accurate evaluation. Additionally, service terminal 100 can print and dispense unique identification labels (e.g., small adhesive-backed labels with QR codes, barcodes, etc.) from label outlet 110 for the user to affix to the back of mobile phone 250. After this is completed, door 106 retracts to allow the user to place mobile phone 250 onto the transparent plate 244 located in detection area 108. Figure 2AThen door 106 closes, and transparent panel 244 moves mobile phone 250 below upper chamber 230, as shown. Figure 2B As shown. The upper chamber 230 then moves downward to substantially surround the mobile phone 250 between the upper chamber 230 and the lower chamber 232. Subsequently, cameras and / or other imaging components in the upper and lower chambers 230 and 232 perform visual inspection of the mobile phone 250. In some embodiments, visual inspection may include 3D visual analysis to verify the identity of the mobile phone 250 (e.g., brand and model) and / or to assess or evaluate the condition and / or functionality of the mobile phone 250 and / or its components and systems. For example, visual analysis may include detecting cracks or other damage to the display screen on the mobile phone 250. In some embodiments, visual inspection may include performing optical character recognition (OCR) to identify printed or displayed patterns, codes, and / or text, and comparing characteristics of the patterns, codes, and / or text (such as layout, size, font, color, etc.) with a template to determine the presence of device identifiers such as model number, serial number, etc. In some embodiments, the service terminal 100 may perform visual analysis using one or more methods and / or systems described in detail in commonly owned patents and patent applications specified herein and whose entire contents are incorporated herein by reference.

[0043] The following reference Figure 2C After performing visual analysis and identifying the device, the upper chamber 230 returns to its upper position, while the transparent plate 244 returns the mobile phone 250 to its initial position near the door 106. Based on visual analysis and / or user input (e.g., input regarding the type, condition, etc. of the mobile phone 250), the display screen 104 is also able to provide an estimated price or estimated price range, which the service terminal 100 can offer for the user's mobile phone 250. If the user indicates (e.g., through touchscreen input) that he or she wishes to proceed with the transaction, the turntable 240 automatically rotates one of the suitable connectors 242 to a position adjacent to the transparent plate 244, and the passage door 106 is reopened. The user can then be instructed (e.g., via the display screen 104) to remove the connector 242 (and its associated cable) from the turntable 240, insert the connector 242 into the appropriate port (e.g., USB port) on the mobile phone 250, and reposition the mobile phone 250 within the detection area on the transparent plate 244. After performing the above operations, door 106 closes again, and service terminal 100 performs electrical testing on the device to further assess the condition of the mobile phone, as well as specific components and operating parameters, such as memory, carrier, etc. In some embodiments, service terminal 100 may perform electrical analysis using one or more methods and / or systems described in detail in commonly owned patents and patent applications specified herein and whose entire contents are incorporated herein by reference.

[0044] In some embodiments, a user can attach an electrical connector to mobile phone 250 and / or perform electrical analysis before the service terminal 100 performs visual analysis of the phone. For example, in this embodiment, a user can approach the service terminal 100, identify the type (e.g., brand and model) of the device he or she wants to recycle, and / or identify the appropriate electrical connector to connect to that device. The service terminal 100 can then use this information to stage the appropriate electrical connector in the detection area. Alternatively, the service terminal 100 can present the user with a selection of standard electrical connectors from which the user can determine the appropriate electrical connector to connect to the device. In any case, the door 106 retracts, and the user is instructed to remove the selected connector 242 from the carrier 240, insert the connector 242 into the corresponding port (e.g., USB port) on mobile phone 250, and place mobile phone 250 on the transparent plate 244 of the detection area. The user may also be prompted to remove the casing, tags, or other accessories of mobile phone 250 and affix a unique identification tag to the back of mobile phone 250 as described above. Then, door 106 closes, and service terminal 100 can perform electrical detection of mobile phone 250 as described above, and visual detection as described above after the electrical detection. Electrical detection may include collecting device identification information and / or other information, which service terminal 100 can use to customize further interactions with the user, such as adding or removing user queries based on the type of device the user is connected to. Therefore, in some embodiments, electrical detection of mobile phone 250 may occur before the user provides information about mobile phone 250 to service terminal 100.

[0045] After visual and electrical analysis of mobile phone 250, the purchase price can be presented to the user via display screen 104. If the user rejects the price (e.g., via touchscreen), a retraction mechanism (not shown) automatically disconnects connector 242 from mobile phone 250, door 106 opens, and the user can obtain and retrieve mobile phone 250. If the user accepts the price, door 106 remains closed, and the purchase transaction continues. For example, the user can be prompted to place his or her identification document (e.g., driver's license) on ID scanner 112 and provide a thumbprint via fingerprint reader 114. As a fraud prevention measure, service terminal 100 can be configured to transmit an image of the driver's license to a remote computer screen, where an operator can visually compare the image (and / or other information) on the driver's license with an image of a person standing in front of service terminal 100 observed through one or more of cameras 116a-116c. Figure 1This is to verify that the person attempting to sell mobile phone 250 is indeed the person identified on the driver's license. In some embodiments, one or more of the cameras 116a-116c may be movable to facilitate observation of the user of the service terminal and other persons near the service terminal 100. Furthermore, a person's fingerprint can be compared with records of known fraudsters. If these comparisons indicate that the person selling the mobile phone poses a fraud risk, the transaction can be rejected, and mobile phone 250 is returned. After the user's identity is verified, the transparent panel 244 moves rearward toward the upper chamber 230 and the lower chamber 232. However, as... Figure 2D As shown, when the upper chamber 230 is in the lower position, the door 238 allows the transparent panel 244 to slide down to its bottom, but does not allow the electronic equipment mounted on it to slide down to its bottom. As a result, the door 238 impacts the mobile phone 150, causing it to leave the transparent panel 244 and fall onto the box panel 236, thus entering the box 234. The service terminal 100 can then provide the user with payment for the purchase price. In some embodiments, the payment can be provided in the form of cash from the cash outlet 118. In other embodiments, the user can receive payment from the mobile phone 150 in a variety of other effective ways. For example, payment can be made to the user by redeeming cash vouchers, coupons, electronic vouchers, prepaid cards, wired or wireless money deposits into electronic accounts (e.g., bank accounts, credit accounts, loyalty accounts, online e-commerce accounts, mobile wallets, etc.).

[0046] Those skilled in the art will understand that the above-described routines are merely some examples of ways in which the service terminal 100 can be used to recycle or otherwise dispose of consumer electronic devices such as mobile phones. While the above examples are described in the context of mobile phones, it should be understood that the service terminal 100 and its various embodiments can also be used in a similar manner to recycle virtually any consumer electronic device, such as MP3 players, tablet computers, laptop computers, e-readers, PDAs, Google... ® Glasses™, smartwatches, and other portable or wearable devices, as well as other relatively non-portable electronic devices such as desktop computers, printers, televisions, DVRs, devices for playing games, entertainment devices, or devices for playing other digital media on CDs, DVDs, Blu-ray discs, etc. Furthermore, while the above examples are described in the context of consumer use, similarly, in various embodiments of service terminal 100, service terminal 100 can be used by others, such as store clerks, to assist consumers in recycling, selling, exchanging, etc., their electronic devices.

[0047] Figure 3A schematic diagram of the architecture of a service terminal 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention is provided. In the illustrated embodiment, the service terminal 100 includes a suitable processor or central processing unit (CPU) 300 that controls the operation of the service terminal 100 according to computer-readable instructions stored in system memory 306. The CPU 300 can be any logical processing unit, such as one or more CPUs, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), etc. The CPU 300 can be a single processing unit, a multiprocessing unit in a single device, or a multiprocessing unit distributed across multiple devices. The CPU 300 is connected to memory 306 and can be coupled to other hardware devices, such as using a bus (e.g., a PCI Express bus or a Serial ATA bus). By way of example, the CPU 300 can include a standard personal computer (PC) running any suitable operating system (e.g., a Dell PC). ® OPTIPLEX ® 7010 PC) or other types of embedded computers, the operating system being such as a Windows operating system ® (Windows) ® Linux ® Android TM (Android) TM Apple operating system ® (iOS) ® The CPU 300 may be a miniaturized PC integrating a hard disk drive (HDD) or solid-state drive (SSD), and a universal serial bus (USB) or other ports to communicate with other components of the service terminal 100. In other embodiments, the CPU 300 may include a microprocessor with a separate motherboard that interacts with a separate HDD. The memory 306 may include read-only memory (ROM) and random access memory (RAM) or other storage devices, such as disk drives or SSDs, to store executable applications, test software, databases, and other necessary software for purposes such as controlling the components of the service terminal, processing information and data of electronic devices (e.g., to evaluate the brand, model, condition, price, etc. of electronic devices), and communicating and exchanging data and information with remote computers and other devices.

[0048] The CPU 300 can provide information and instructions to the service end user via the display screen 104 and / or an audio system (e.g., a speaker) 304. The CPU 300 can also receive user input via, for example, a touchscreen 308 associated with the display screen 104, a keyboard with physical keys, and / or a microphone 310. Furthermore, the CPU 300 can receive personal identification information and / or biometric information related to the user via an ID reader 112, one or more external cameras 116, and / or a fingerprint reader 114. In some embodiments, the CPU 300 can also receive information (e.g., user identification information and / or account information) via a card reader 312 (e.g., a debit card reader, credit card reader, or loyalty card reader with suitable magnetic stripe readers, optical readers, etc.). The CPU 300 can also control the operation of a tag dispenser 110 and a system for distributing rewards to the user, such as an ATM 118, and / or a receipt or voucher printer and associated dispenser 320.

[0049] As described above, the service terminal 100 also includes electronic, optical, and electromechanical devices for electrical, visual, and / or physical analysis of electronic devices placed at the service terminal for recycling. Such a system may include: one or more internal cameras 314 for visually inspecting electronic devices, for example, for determining their external dimensions and condition; and one or more electrical connectors 242 (e.g., USB connectors), for example, for powering the electronic devices and performing electrical analysis. As described above, the camera 314 is operatively coupled to the upper chamber 230 and the lower chamber 232, and the connector 242 may be movably and interchangeably carried by the turntable 240. Figures 2A-2D The service terminal 100 also includes multiple mechanical components that are electronically actuated for performing various functions of the service terminal 100 during operation. Mechanical components 318 may, for example, include: a passageway gate 106 for the detection area, and one or more operably disposed in the detection area 108 (…). Figure 1 Movable components within the service terminal (e.g., detection plate 244, upper chamber 230, and lower chamber 232, etc.). The service terminal 100 further includes a power supply 302, which may include battery power and / or device power for operating the various electrical components associated with the service terminal.

[0050] In the illustrated embodiment, the service terminal 100 further includes: a network connection 322 (e.g., a wired connection, such as an Ethernet port, cable modem, FireWire cable, Lightning connector, USB port, etc.), which is adapted to communicate with, for example, various forms of processing devices (including teleprocessing devices) via a communication link 350; and a wireless transceiver 324 (e.g., including a Wi-Fi access point, Bluetooth transceiver, Near Field Communication (NFC) device, wireless modem, or cellular radio utilizing GSM, CDMA, 3G, and / or 4G technologies, etc.), which is adapted to communicate with, for example, various forms of processing devices (including teleprocessing devices) via the communication link 350 and / or, for example, directly via, for example, a wireless point-to-point connection. For example, the wireless transceiver 324 may facilitate wireless communication with electronic devices, such as mobile devices 330 that are near or far from the service terminal 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the electronic device 330 may be a handheld device, such as a mobile phone. However, in other embodiments, electronic device 330 can be other types of electronic devices, such as other handheld devices, PDAs, MP3 players, tablets, laptops and portable computers, e-readers, cameras, desktop computers, televisions, DVRs, game consoles, Google... ® Glasses TM Smartwatches, etc. By way of example only, in the illustrated embodiments, electronic device 330 may include one or more features, applications, and / or other elements common in smartphones and other known mobile devices. For example, electronic device 330 may include a CPU and / or a graphics processing unit (GPU) 334 for executing computer-readable instructions stored in memory 336. Furthermore, mobile device 330 may include: an internal power supply or battery 332, a dock connector 346, a USB port 348, a camera 340, and / or known input devices, such as a touchscreen 342, buttons, etc. In many embodiments, electronic device 330 may also include a speaker 344 for bidirectional communication and audio playback. In addition to the features described above, electronic device 330 may include an operating system (OS) 331 and / or a device wireless transceiver, which may include one or more antennas 338 for wireless communication, for example, with other electronic devices, websites, and service terminals 100. Such communication can be implemented, for example, via communication link 350 (which may include: the Internet, public or private intranet, local or extended Wi-Fi network, cell tower, conventional telephone system (POTS), etc.), or through direct wireless communication.

[0051] Unless otherwise stated, Figure 3The structure and operation of the various components shown are of conventional design. Therefore, since they will be easily understood by those skilled in the art, these components do not need to be described in further detail herein. In other embodiments, the service terminal 100 and / or the mobile device 330 may include other features that may differ from those described above. In even further embodiments, the service terminal 100 and / or the electronic device 330 may include more or fewer features similar to those described above.

[0052] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a suitable network environment for implementing various aspects of the electronic device recycling system 400 configured according to embodiments of the present technology. In the illustrated embodiment, multiple service terminals 100 (identified as service terminals 110a-110n, respectively) can exchange information with one or more remote computers (e.g., one or more server computers 404) via communication link 350. Although communication link 350 may include a publicly available network (e.g., the Internet with a network interface), a private communication link, such as an intranet or other network, may also be used. Furthermore, in various embodiments, individual service terminals 100 may be connected to a host (not shown) that facilitates information exchange between the service terminal 100 and remote computers, other service terminals, mobile devices, etc.

[0053] Server computer 404 may perform many or all of the functions for receiving, routing, and storing electronic messages, such as web pages, audio signals, and electronic images necessary for performing the various electronic transactions described herein. For example, server computer 404 may retrieve and exchange web pages and other content with one or more associated databases 406. In some embodiments, database 406 may include information related to mobile phones and / or other consumer electronic devices. Such information may include, for example, brand, model, serial number, International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number, carrier plan information, pricing information, owner information, etc. In various embodiments, server computer 404 may also include: server engine 408, web page management component 410, content management component 412, and database management component 414. Server engine 408 may perform basic processing and operating system-level tasks associated with the various technologies described herein. Web page management component 410 may handle the creation and / or display and / or routing of web pages or other displayed pages. Content management component 412 may handle many functions associated with the routines described herein. The database management component 414 can perform various storage, retrieval, and query tasks associated with the database 406, and can store various information and data, such as animations, graphics, video signals, and audio signals.

[0054] In the illustrated embodiment, the service terminal 100 may also be operatively connected to multiple other remote devices and systems via communication link 350. For example, the service terminal 100 may be operatively connected to multiple user devices 418 (e.g., personal computers, laptops, handheld devices, etc.) with associated browsers 420. Similarly, as described above, each of the aforementioned service terminals 100 may include a wireless communication device for exchanging digital information with wireless-enabled electronic devices such as electronic device 330. The service terminal 100 and / or server computer 404 may also be operatively connected to a series of remote computers for obtaining data and / or exchanging information with required service providers, financial institutions, equipment manufacturers, authorities, government agencies, etc. For example, the service terminal 100 and server computer 404 may be operatively connected to one or more mobile operators 422, one or more equipment manufacturers 424 (e.g., mobile phone manufacturers), one or more electronic payment or financial institutions 428, one or more databases (e.g., GSMA IMEI database, etc.), and one or more computers and / or other remote local or shared resources associated with cloud computing 426. Financial institutions 428 may include various entities involved in conducting financial transactions, including: banks, credit / debit card facilities, online commerce facilities, online payment systems, money transfer systems, etc.

[0055] In addition to the above, service terminal 100 and server computer 404 may also be operatively connected to resale marketplace 430 and service terminal operator 432. Resale marketplace 430 refers to a remote computer and / or service provider system associated with the resale of consumer electronics devices through electronic and physical channels. Such entities and facilities may, for example, be associated with online auctions for the resale of used electronic devices and with establishing market prices for such used electronic devices. Service terminal operator 432 may be a central computer or central computer system for controlling various operations of the network of service terminals 100. These operations may include, for example, remotely monitoring and facilitating the maintenance of service terminals (e.g., remotely testing service terminal functions, downloading operating software, and updates), servicing (e.g., periodically replenishing cash and other consumables), and operation. Furthermore, service terminal operator 432 may further include one or more displays operatively connected to cameras located at each service terminal 100 (e.g., as described above). Figure 1 One or more cameras 116 as described above. This remote observation capability enables operators to verify user identity and / or monitor the service terminal 100 in real time during transactions, as referred to above. Figure 1 Other visual observations mentioned above.

[0056] The aforementioned electronic device recycling system 400 describes only one network system suitable for implementing the various technologies described herein. Therefore, those skilled in the art should understand that other systems consistent with this technology may omit reference to this description. Figure 4 The described one or more facilities, or may include Figure 4 One or more additional facilities not described in detail.

[0057] Service terminal 100, mobile device 330, server computer 404, user computer or device 418, etc., may include one or more central processing units or other logic processing circuits, memory, input devices (e.g., keyboard and positioning devices), output devices (e.g., display devices and printers), and storage devices (e.g., disk drives, solid-state drives, fixed and floppy disk drives, optical disk drives, etc.). Such a computer may include other program modules such as operating systems, one or more application programs (e.g., word processing applications or spreadsheet applications), etc. The computer may include wireless computers that communicate with the Internet via a wireless link, such as mobile phones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), handheld computers, tablet computers, laptops and notebook computers, desktop computers, e-readers, music players, GPS devices, and devices such as smartwatches and Google... ® Glasses ™ Wearable computers, etc. These computers can be general-purpose devices capable of being programmed to run various types of applications, or they can be single-purpose devices optimized for or limited to specific functions or categories of functions. Aspects of the invention can be practiced in a variety of other computing environments.

[0058] Although the Internet is shown, the present invention can also use private networks, such as intranets. The network can have a master-slave architecture, in which one computer is dedicated to serving other client computers, or the network can have other architectures, such as peer-to-peer, in which one or more computers act as both servers and clients. One or more databases coupled to one or more server computers store a large number of web pages and content exchanged between the user computers. The one or more server computers, including one or more databases, can employ security measures to suppress malicious attacks on the system and maintain the integrity of the information and data stored therein (e.g., firewall systems, message encryption and / or authentication (e.g., using Transport Layer Security (TLS) or Secure Sockets Layer (SSL)), password protection schemes, encrypted data storage (e.g., using trusted computer hardware), etc.).

[0059] Those skilled in the art will understand that the concepts of this invention can be used in a variety of environments other than location-based or internet-based. Generally, the display description can be in Hypertext Markup Language (HTML), Extensible Markup Language (XML), or Wireless Application Protocol (WAP) format, email format, or any other format suitable for displaying information (including character / code-based formats, algorithm-based formats (e.g., vector generation), and bitmap formats). Furthermore, various communication channels such as local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), or peer-to-peer dial-up connections can be used instead of the internet. The system can operate in a standalone computer environment, rather than a client / server environment. Furthermore, the user computer can include any combination of hardware or software that interacts with the server computer, such as television-based systems, and various other consumer products through which commercial or non-commercial transactions can be conducted. The various aspects of the invention described herein can be implemented in or used in any email environment.

[0060] Although not required, aspects of the invention are described in the general context of computer-executable instructions, such as routines executed by a data processing device, such as a server computer, wireless device, or personal computer. Those skilled in the art will understand that aspects of the invention can be implemented in conjunction with other communication systems, data processing systems, or computer system configurations, including: internet devices, handheld devices (including personal digital assistants (PDAs)), wearable computers, various cellular or mobile phones (including Voice over IP (VoIP)), dumb terminals, media players, gaming devices, multiprocessor systems, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics, set-top boxes, network personal computers (PCs), minicomputers, mainframe computers, etc. In fact, the terms "computer," "server," "host," "host system," etc., are generally used interchangeably herein and refer to any of the aforementioned devices and systems, as well as any data processor.

[0061] Various aspects of the present invention can be implemented in a purpose-built computer or data processor having specific programming, configuration, or construction to execute one or more computer-executable instructions detailed herein. Although various aspects of the invention, such as specific functions, are described as performing only on a single device, the invention can also be implemented in a distributed environment where functions or modules are shared among different processing devices connected via communication networks such as local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), or the Internet. In a distributed computing environment, programming modules can be located locally or in remote memory storage devices.

[0062] Those skilled in the art will understand that the routines and other functions and methods described herein can be implemented as application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) by digital signal processing (DSP) integrated circuits using conventional programmable logic arrays and / or circuit elements. While many embodiments are shown and described as being implemented in hardware (e.g., one or more integrated circuits specifically designed for the task), these embodiments can also be implemented in software and executed by one or more processors. Such software can be stored on any suitable computer-readable medium, such as microcode stored in a semiconductor chip, stored on a computer-readable disk, or downloaded from a server and stored locally on a client machine.

[0063] Various aspects of the present invention can be stored or distributed on tangible computer-readable media, including: magnetically or optically readable computer disks, hardwired or pre-programmed chips (e.g., electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM) semiconductor chips), nanotechnology memories, biological memories, or other data storage media. Data storage devices can include any type of computer-readable medium capable of storing computer-accessible data, such as magnetic hard disk and floppy disk drives, optical disk drives, cassette tapes, magnetic tape drives, flash memory cards, digital video optical discs (DVDs), Bernoulli cassette tapes, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), smart cards, etc. In fact, any medium that stores or transmits computer-readable instructions and data can be used, including connection ports connected to networks such as LANs, WANs, or the Internet. Optionally, the computers executing instructions, data structures, screen displays, and other data in various aspects of the present invention can be distributed in the Internet, or distributed in other networks (including wireless networks), distributed for a period of time in the propagation of signals in a propagation medium (e.g., electromagnetic waves, sound waves), or they can be provided in any analog or digital network (packet switching, circuit switching, or other schemes). The terms “memory” and “computer-readable storage medium” include any combination of temporary, persistent and / or permanent memory, such as ROM, writable memory like RAM, writable non-volatile memory like flash memory, hard disk drives, solid-state drives, removable media, etc., but do not include the temporary propagation of signals themselves.

[0064] Figure 5 This is a flowchart of a routine for pricing recycled electronic devices (e.g., mobile phones) according to an embodiment of the present technology. Routine 500 and / or portions thereof can be implemented by an app running on the mobile phone and / or other electronic devices. In some cases, for example, a user who owns a mobile phone may want to know how much the mobile phone is worth so that he or she can consider selling it. Figure 5 Routine 500 allows users to quickly obtain the current price of an electronic device without requiring them to bring the device to the recycling service terminal 100 or provide full details of the device and its construction. Once the user knows the value of the electronic device, he or she can take it to the recycling service terminal 100 and efficiently complete the recycling transaction, and / or take other steps to sell the device, such as by mailing it to the service terminal for recycling.

[0065] Example 500 uses an app that can obtain information about the user's electronic device. For example, the electronic device can be one of various consumer electronic devices, such as mobile telecommunications devices, which include various handheld devices with wireless communication capabilities (e.g., smartphones). In some embodiments, the user obtains information from the device manufacturer 424 or a third party (e.g., Apple). ® App Store SM Google Play TM Stores, Amazon ® App Store TM The app can be downloaded to the electronic device from an app store or other software library associated with (e.g., a website associated with service terminal operator 432), from service terminal 100 (e.g., by sideloading the app via a wired or wireless data connection), or from a removable storage device such as an SD flash card or USB drive. In other embodiments, the app is downloaded to the electronic device before the user first acquires it (e.g., pre-installed by the device manufacturer 424, wireless service operator 422, or device vendor). In various embodiments, the app and / or some or all of the executable routines 500 on a remote server operatively connected to the app. For example, when a user wants to find out how much the electronic device is worth, the user can activate the app (e.g., by selecting an icon representing the app on the electronic device's touchscreen) and, for example, select the "How much is my device worth?" function to begin the process of pricing the electronic device. The user can use the app to price the electronic device even when it is away from service terminal 100.

[0066] In block 502, routine 500 receives or otherwise obtains information about the electronic device via the app. In some embodiments, routine 500 obtains this information automatically; that is, it does not need to receive information input by the user. For example, in iOS... ® Under the operating system, apps can obtain mobile device information through Settings / General / About Screen, or through iOS. ®Mobile device information is obtained through the use of available application programming interfaces (APIs); other operating systems provide similar access to device information. The app can obtain the necessary information to identify and / or evaluate the electronic device, such as unique identifiers (e.g., a mobile phone's IMEI or MEID or equivalent, a networkable device's hardware media access control address (MAC address), or the electronic device's model and serial number); information describing the device's manufacturer (e.g., manufacturer name or ID code), model, features (e.g., storage capacity, color, carrier, and / or wireless band), performance, and / or condition, etc. The electronic device's characteristic information includes the device brand, model, and configuration. The following references... Figure 8 Further details regarding the acquisition of information about the electronic device are described. Routine 500 is capable of storing information about the electronic device in a data structure of the electronic device (e.g., in a table maintained by the app), and / or in a data structure located remotely to the electronic device (e.g., in a data structure maintained at one or more locations such as service terminal 100, server computer 404, cloud storage facility 426, etc.).

[0067] In block 504, routine 500 evaluates the electronic device based on the information described above. In some embodiments, routine 500 performs the evaluation automatically, i.e., without receiving user input during the evaluation. Evaluating the electronic device may include identifying the electronic device and / or assessing its condition. For example, the evaluation may include identifying the electronic device by determining one or more of its platform, brand, model, carrier (e.g., for mobile phones), features, configuration (e.g., memory and / or other storage capacity), upgrades, peripherals, etc. In various embodiments, the app or remote server can use the information described above to query a local database or a remote database (e.g., database 406). For example, the app or remote server can obtain the IMEI number of a mobile phone and then remotely communicate with a backend database such as the GSMA IMEI database (e.g., via a wireless or wired link) to parse the IMEI to determine or verify the brand and / or model of the phone. Routine 500 can use such a query to obtain metadata, for example, to confirm whether various information sources for the electronic device are consistent with each other. Evaluating the electronic device may also include determining which information about the electronic device is available and which is not. For example, depending on the type of device, it may or may not be possible to perform tests to measure the condition of electronic equipment (e.g., to assess the condition of the processor, battery, and / or screen).

[0068] The evaluation of electronic devices may also include, for example, assessing the physical and / or electrical condition of the electronic devices based on the information described above. In some embodiments, the app may perform tests that display the condition of the electronic device, such as processor performance tests, battery charging and / or battery capacity tests, memory quality storage tests, test calls to confirm the full operation of the device's radio, etc. The app may perform interactive tests that include user feedback, such as screen tests (e.g., asking the user whether there are cracks in the glass and / or whether a solid color or pattern is displayed on an LCD or LED display, and prompting the user to identify dead pixels or bad pixels in the display), and / or interactive tests that include user operations such as guiding the user to activate functions on the electronic device (e.g., turning on the Bluetooth radio so that the app can test the radio's functionality).

[0069] In some embodiments, evaluating an electronic device includes: determining whether the electronic device is associated with a remote user account that enables a remote user to control the electronic device (such as tracking the electronic device and / or erasing data from the electronic device), and / or identifying other potential problems that could affect the operation, value, or resaleability of the electronic device. For example, see below. Figure 10 Additional details regarding the identification and deactivation of remote device control features (e.g., "kill switch") are described.

[0070] In some embodiments, evaluating an electronic device includes transmitting information about the electronic device to one or more remote server computers (e.g., to remote server computer 404, to cloud computing server 426, to service terminal operator 432, and / or to user's computer 418) before the user brings the electronic device to service terminal 100. In some embodiments, routine 500 may send raw information about the electronic device for remote storage (e.g., to a cloud storage station) for later access and evaluation by service terminal 100, or may send the identifier of the electronic device and the results of the evaluation process performed by the app for retrieval by service terminal 100.

[0071] In decision block 506, routine 500 determines whether the assessment is sufficient to price the electronic device. This determination may include, for example, whether the assessment of the type and condition of the electronic device is sufficient to determine the purchase price of the electronic device, or whether the electronic device is within a possible price range. For example, to determine the price of the electronic device, routine 500 may need information about the brand and model of the electronic device, or information about one or more unique identifiers of the electronic device, to look up the current price of the device in a database or pricing model. The database or pricing model may be, for example, a local lookup table of common devices, and / or a remotely hosted database or web service to which the app can transmit information about the electronic device, and from which the app can receive the current market value or purchase price of the electronic device. Therefore, if the assessment is based on insufficient information about the electronic device (e.g., if the app cannot access the model or unique identifier of the electronic device), and / or if the assessment cannot explicitly identify the electronic device, the assessment of the type and condition of the electronic device may be insufficient to determine the price or price range of the electronic device. In some cases, for example, the assessment may identify the electronic device as a group of devices (e.g., Samsung). ® galaxy ® The device (including a large family of devices such as tablet computers and smartphones) is one of many, but the electronic device cannot be definitively identified. In such an example, for example, routine 500 may determine that the electronic device is within a possible price range. The price range may be based on, for example, some devices in a group of devices or the value of each device. In such an example, routine 500 may also determine that the price range is greater than a threshold price range, and thereby determine that the information about the electronic device is insufficient to determine the price of the electronic device or insufficient to determine a sufficiently narrow price range for the electronic device. In some embodiments, the determination may also include assessing whether it is sufficient to identify various problems or to confirm that various problems do not exist, as follows by reference Figure 10 and Figure 11 The description is as follows. For example, if routine 500 cannot determine whether the electronic device is in a fully functional state (such as whether the electronic device is under remote user control) based on the above assessment, routine 500 may determine that the assessment is insufficient to price the electronic device.

[0072] If routine 500 determines that the assessment is insufficient to price the electronic device, then in block 508, routine 500 instructs the user to take the electronic device to service terminal 100 for purposes such as those described above via reference appendix. Figures 2A-2DThe physical and / or electrical detection described above. Routine 500 ends after block 508. Conversely, if routine 500 determines that the information is sufficient to price the electronic device, then in block 510, routine 500 determines the purchase price of the electronic device. For example, routine 500 may consult a local or remote database (e.g., database 406) to set the purchase price based on information and assessment of the electronic device. In some cases, the purchase price includes a price range or price that depends on the specific identification and / or assessment of the electronic device at service terminal 100. In some embodiments, the app obtains data from a remote server (e.g., Figure 4 The server computer (404) downloads pricing data, and the app determines the purchase price for the electronic device based on the pricing data downloaded by the app. For example, in some embodiments, the app may download a database of prices, such as a lookup table containing prices of popular electronic devices, a pricing model, or other data structures. The app can use information about the brand and model of the electronic device to look up the current price of the electronic device in the table. The app can also look up information in a remote database (e.g., database 406). In other embodiments, the app may transmit some or all of the information to a remote server. The remote server can then use the transmitted information to determine the current market value of the electronic device (e.g., by looking up the value of the electronic device in a database) and return a price that the app can offer to the user for the electronic device. In various embodiments, the pricing data is updated periodically, such as daily. Routine 500 may ensure that the pricing data is valid only for a certain period of time or only when the app connects to the remote server, so that the app only provides current, accurate prices.

[0073] In some embodiments, routine 500 determines a fixed price for an electronic device, which is valid for a set period of time so that a user can bring their electronic device to service terminal 100 within that time, during which time the user already knows the value of the electronic device, thereby increasing the user's certainty and confidence. In some embodiments, routine 500 determines a price range for the electronic device, enabling the user to bring the electronic device to service terminal 100 so that service terminal 100 can fully evaluate the electronic device (e.g., visual inspection) and offer a price consistent with the determined range. In some embodiments, determining the acquisition price includes predicting the future value of the electronic device, or predicting its future value over time. This prediction may be based on past depreciation and / or the expected release schedule of future devices (such as new Apple products). ® iPhone ® (Used via mobile phone).

[0074] In block 512, routine 500 presents the determined purchase price or estimated price of the electronic device. For example, the app may display the price on the screen of the electronic device, and / or a remote server may send a text message or email to the user containing the price the user can obtain by selling the electronic device at service terminal 100 within a certain period. For example, routine 500 may instruct service terminal 100 to keep the offer valid for a period of time. In some embodiments, the app enables the user to commit to bringing the electronic device to service terminal 100, for example, at a set time or within a set period of time. In some embodiments, the app may reward the user for bringing the electronic device to service terminal 100. Such rewards may include, for example, extended availability, valid coupons for stores near service terminal 100, bonuses for recycling additional devices, referral bonuses, etc.

[0075] In block 514, routine 500 may associate a unique identifier with an electronic device or a user. Routine 500 may use an identifier already associated with an electronic device (e.g., the device's IMEI number for a mobile phone) or may generate a new identifier. The identifier may be a globally unique identifier (GUID) and / or a visual identifier, such as a QR code, barcode, etc. For example, routine 500 may associate a price with a unique identifier, such as a hash value generated based on the user, device identifier, app, and / or the time and quantity of the price itself. For example, routine 500 may associate a numeric or alphanumeric identification code with the purchase price of the electronic device and provide that identification code to the user, informing the user that they can enter the identification code at service terminal 100 within a specific time to receive the purchase price of the electronic device. For example, routine 500 may display the identification code on the screen of the electronic device and / or send an email or text message containing the identification code to the user. Routine 500 may store the price and identifier in a data structure on the electronic device (e.g., in a table maintained by the app) and / or in a data structure located remotely to the electronic device (e.g., in a data structure maintained at one or more of the service terminal 100, service computer 404, cloud storage facility 426, etc.), and may transfer the price and identifier between or among various computing and / or storage facilities. In some embodiments, routine 500 transmits the identifier to server computer 404 so that when service terminal 100 receives the identifier, service terminal 100 can look up the identifier and retrieve the associated price (e.g., along with information used to automatically identify the electronic device and / or user, such as hereinafter referred to as...). Figure 6(as described above). In other embodiments, routine 500 prompts the user to create an account or provide account credentials, such as by entering a username and password. For example, routine 500 may prompt the user to create an account associated with the service terminal operator 432, or allow the user to log in to a third-party account, such as Facebook. ® (Facebook) ® ) account.

[0076] In block 516, routine 500 records the purchase price and identifier of the electronic device. For example, routine 500 may store the purchase price in a lookup table indexed by the unique identifier of the electronic device. Routine 500 may record the purchase price of the electronic device locally on the electronic device and / or remotely (e.g., along with information about the electronic device). For example, the app may store a record of the purchase price of the electronic device and a timestamp of the purchase price, and / or may transmit the purchase price data to service terminal operator 432, remote server 404, cloud storage facility 426, and / or one or more service terminals 100 (e.g., service terminals 100a-100n in the same geographic area as the user or app) so that any terminal 100 can retrieve the purchase price from the server and efficiently complete the intended purchase transaction based on that purchase price. Furthermore, routine 500 may track and aggregate information about the purchase price of electronic devices (and all priced electronic devices) over time, along with, for example, information about when the electronic device was actually recycled after the pricing was presented via the app.

[0077] In decision block 518, routine 500 can receive user input indicating that the user intends to sell an electronic device at service terminal 100 for a purchase price. For example, the app can present options that indicate the user's interest, such as a button on the device display that allows the user to receive a voucher by committing to recycling the electronic device within a specified time. If the user selects an option indicating their intention to recycle the electronic device, then in block 520, the app instructs the user on the next steps regarding recycling the electronic device. For example, the app can prompt the user to prepare the electronic device for recycling, as shown in the following reference... Figure 13 As described above. In another example, if the user selects the "Take me to the service terminal now!" button displayed by the app on the device's display, the app can provide directions to the nearest recycling service terminal 100. After instructing the user on the next step to recycle the electronic device, or if the user does not indicate an intention to accept the purchase price (or, for example, indicate that the user does not intend to recycle the electronic device while the purchase price remains valid), routine 500 ends.

[0078] Figure 5The flowcharts below are representative and may not show data exchange or all functions, but they provide an understanding of the exchange instructions and data within the system. Those skilled in the art will recognize that some functions or exchanges of instructions and data can be repeated, varied, omitted, or supplemented, and other (less important) aspects not shown can be readily implemented. Figure 5 The blocks shown in each flowchart discussed below can be varied in various ways. For example, while procedures or blocks are presented in a given order, alternative implementations may execute routines in different orders, and some procedures or blocks may be rearranged, deleted, moved, added, subdivided, merged, and / or modified to provide alternative or sub-combinations. Each of these procedures or blocks can be implemented in various different ways. Furthermore, although procedures or blocks are sometimes shown as being executed serially, they may alternatively be executed or implemented in parallel, or may be executed at different times. Figure 5 Some of the blocks described in the other flowcharts are of types known in the art, and they may themselves include a series of operations not described herein. Those skilled in the art can create source code and / or microcode, program logic arrays, or otherwise implement this invention based on the flowcharts and detailed descriptions provided herein.

[0079] In various embodiments, all or part of routine 500 and other routines in the flowcharts herein may be implemented by a consumer or other user (such as a retail employee) operating one or more of the devices and systems described above. For example, in some embodiments, routine 500 and other routines disclosed herein may be implemented by a mobile device, such as those referenced above. Figure 3 The electronic device 330. In some embodiments, certain portions of the routine (e.g., certain blocks) may be composed of one or more Figure 4 The service is executed by the terminal 100a–100n, and / or by one or more remote computers. For example, these remote computers may include one or more... Figure 4 The server computer 404 and / or the computing resources associated with a single or combined operation of the cloud 426, the resale market 430, and / or the service terminal operator 432. The service terminal 100 and / or the remote computer may utilize one or more local and / or remote databases (e.g., Figure 4 The database 406, such as the GSMA IMEI database, is used to execute the routines described herein. Therefore, the routines 500 and other routines disclosed herein can interchangeably relate to routines, apps, subject electronic devices, and / or service terminals 100 that perform operations, and it should be understood that any of the aforementioned devices, systems, and resources can perform all or part of the operations.

[0080] While this document uses mobile phones and other handheld devices as examples of electronic devices to describe various embodiments of the technology, the technology is generally applicable to all types of electronic devices. For example, in some embodiments, an app can be installed and / or run on a large device, such as a laptop or tower computer, to perform all or part of routine 500. For example, the app can catalog the laptop or desktop computer and provide the user with a confirmation code as a receipt, which the user can print and take to a service terminal or associated retailer location or point of sale (or deliver the confirmation code via a computer via, for example, courier, mail, or parcel delivery services). The confirmation code can identify the electronic device and submit an agreed price, which is determined based on an evaluation performed by the app based on information obtained from the electronic device and additional information provided by the user. In some embodiments, the app and / or receipt can indicate any element requiring independent verification for the user (e.g., undamaged screen glass) to receive the agreed price for the electronic device. The user can then take the electronic device to a retail store or point of sale (or, for example, to service terminal 100 for observation by a remote service terminal operator) to independently verify its condition, after which the user can store the electronic device. Users can then receive the price after verifying the receipt on their electronic device, such as in cash, credit cards, or gift cards, issued by retail stores or service terminals.

[0081] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating a routine for purchasing electronic devices (e.g., mobile phones) at a service terminal according to an embodiment of the present technology. In various embodiments, the service terminal 100 and / or a remote server operatively connected to the service terminal 100 are capable of executing some or all of the routines 600. In the example described for routine 600, the user has used a mobile app to price the recycled electronic device, as described above with reference to... Figure 5 The description is as follows: For example, after a user has purchased a new mobile device, he or she can use the app to receive a price quote for the old device and obtain directions to the nearest service terminal 100. While the price is still valid, the user can exchange the old device for the quoted price at that service terminal. After the user is provided with a device buyback price, the user knows the value of the electronic device and can choose to bring it to service terminal 100 for recycling. In this example, the user brings the electronic device to service terminal 100 for recycling.

[0082] In block 602, routine 600 begins by receiving the identifier and / or user identifier of an electronic device at service terminal 100. For example, when a user electrically connects an electronic device to service terminal 100 (e.g., by inserting a physical wired connector 242 of the service terminal into the electronic device, or by enabling the electronic device to join a wireless network provided by service terminal 100), service terminal 100 can detect the electronic device by connection. Based on the type of electronic device and / or connection type, service terminal 100 can electrically query the electronic device to receive the device's unique identifier. As another example, service terminal 100 can prompt the user to identify themselves at service terminal 100 (e.g., by logging into an account). Service terminal 100 can also prompt the user to identify the electronic device and / or the user at service terminal 100, such as by entering a code or identifier (e.g., as described above) at the touchscreen 308 of service terminal 100. Figure 5 The assigned identifier); by displaying a code (e.g., a QR code) or image on the screen of the electronic device, the camera 116 of the service terminal 100 can read the aforementioned code or image; by placing the electronic device in front of the camera 116 of the service terminal 100, the camera 116 can image the features of the electronic device and / or read information printed on the electronic device (e.g., the back of the electronic device) such as identifiers (e.g., serial numbers or IMEI numbers) via OCR. See below for the appendix. Figure 16 and 17 Other methods by which the system determines the presence of an electronic device at service terminal 100 are described. The receiving identifier may also include, for example, identifying a user from a scanned driver's license number; app software detecting a wireless network signal from service terminal 100; service terminal 100 detecting a connection request from an electronic device, etc.

[0083] In block 603, routine 600 retrieves stored information about the electronic device at service terminal 100 based on the received identifier of the electronic device. In some embodiments, after receiving the device identifier, service terminal 100 may query a local or remote database (e.g., a lookup table indexed by the unique identifier of the electronic device, such as a local identifier or an acquired or assigned code) to determine whether the device identifier is associated with stored information about the electronic device (e.g., any device with an app installed, any device for which the user has used the app for pricing, and / or any device previously evaluated by service terminal 100). If information about the electronic device—such as, for example, a currently valid offer—has been stored, service terminal 100 automatically retrieves the stored information about the electronic device. In some embodiments, service terminal 100 automatically retrieves previously submitted information about the electronic device, such as information submitted by the user through the app from... Figure 3The information in the memory 306 of the device 330, and / or from, such as Figure 4 Information about the remote database in database 406.

[0084] In block 604, routine 600 verifies the identity of the electronic device and / or the user. For example, after retrieving stored information (e.g., information about the electronic device obtained via an app), service terminal 100 can compare this information with information directly detected at service terminal 100. For example, routine 600 can query the electronic device to confirm that information received directly from the electronic device in response to the query corresponds to information received indirectly via the app. To verify the identity of the electronic device, routine 600 can verify that all identifiers match third-party information about the electronic device, and / or are consistent with third-party information about the electronic device, for example, by referring to the above. Figure 5 The description is as follows. Example 600 can also query the database (such as those described below via reference). Figure 8 The description provided is intended to confirm that the electronic device is not, for example, reported stolen or associated with remote device control features (such as those described below). Figure 10 (Description of the process).

[0085] In decision block 606, routine 600 determines whether the identity of the electronic device and / or user has been successfully verified. If routine 600 cannot verify the identity of the electronic device and / or user, then routine 600 terminates. For example, if service terminal 100 cannot verify that the electronic device submitted at service terminal 100 is the same electronic device for which the app offers a purchase price, then service terminal 100 may return the submitted device or indicate to the user that the submitted device needs to be fully evaluated and priced at service terminal 100. On the other hand, if the verification is successful, routine 600 proceeds to block 608.

[0086] In block 608, routine 600 performs the detection of the electronic device, such as by receiving the electronic device and by referring to the above. Figure 2B The described visual inspection of the electronic device is used to determine its visual condition (e.g., whether the exterior of the electronic device appears damaged, whether the electronic device appears powered, etc.). In decision block 610, routine 600 determines whether the visual condition of the electronic device is within the expected visual condition. For example, routine 600 may evaluate whether the visual condition of the electronic device meets a specific threshold (e.g., appears large or completely undamaged) or whether the condition of the electronic device matches information obtained via software and used to provide a quote for the electronic device. If the information about the electronic device indicates, for example, that the casing of the electronic device has scratches, then in block 610, routine 600 may confirm that the casing is scratched (rather than, for example, completely broken or flawless).

[0087] If the electronic device passes visual detection, then in block 612, routine 600 proposes at service terminal 100 the price previously offered (e.g., Figure 5 The electronic device is purchased at the price determined in block 510, provided that the price remains valid at the time of redemption. If the offered price has expired, routine 600 can check the current value of the electronic device, and if its value has changed, propose an updated purchase price based on the verified identity and condition of the electronic device. However, if the visual condition of the electronic device is not as previously indicated, then in block 614, routine 600 determines the purchase price of the electronic device based on the results of visual inspection, and in block 615, routine 600 presents the determined purchase price to the user, such as by displaying the determined purchase price on the service terminal display screen 104.

[0088] In decision block 616, after the purchase price is presented to the user in block 612 or block 614, routine 600 determines whether the purchase price is accepted. If the user does not accept the price, routine 600 terminates. On the other hand, if the user accepts the price and submits the electronic device at service terminal 100, then in block 618, routine 600 completes the purchase transaction and / or recycling transaction (e.g., in...). Figures 2A-2D The system receives electronic devices in the collection box and pays the user. Routine 600 ends after the transaction is completed.

[0089] In some situations, when a user receives an estimated price for an electronic device, the user may want to continue holding onto it; for example, the user may be concerned about placing his or her electronic device in the detection area 108 of the service terminal 100 for electrical and / or visual detection. In some embodiments, this technology provides a “quick query” or initial price estimate that the service terminal can offer to the user based on performing an initial analysis of the electronic device without requiring the user to relinquish control of his or her device. Upon receiving the “quick query,” the user can determine whether to reclaim his or her electronic device based on greater certainty about its value.

[0090] For example, to initiate a "quick query" price estimate, a user can launch an app on their device. In some embodiments, the routine transmits information about the user's device from the electronic device to the service terminal 100. The app can transmit this information indirectly via an internet data connection (e.g., by transmitting cellular data via a mobile phone device). Figure 4The remote server 404 can then send the information to the service terminal 100 or directly to the service terminal 100. For example, the service terminal 100 can instruct the user to touch or approach (e.g., within a few feet) an NFC sensor swipe on a device with NFC, or instruct the user to connect an electronic device to a Wi-Fi or Bluetooth network provided by the service terminal 100. The service terminal 100 and / or the app can instruct the user to locate the electronic device so that one or more of the cameras 116a-c can image the device to perform initial visual analysis. The routine can also instruct the user to present the electronic device at the service terminal 100, displaying a code such as a QR code on the device's display screen, so that the service terminal's camera 116 can scan the code. For example, the app and / or service terminal 100 may instruct the user to hold his or her electronic device at different angles or at different distances from camera 116 (e.g., to display components of device 330 and / or information printed on device 330), or instruct the user to display specific content on the screen of the electronic device (e.g., a device information "About" screen, or a visual code or test pattern screen displayed by the app) for evaluation by service terminal 100 through camera 116. The routine may also instruct the user to use the camera of the electronic device to read codes such as QR codes or barcodes displayed on service terminal display screen 104, for example, to verify that the camera of the electronic device is functioning properly, and / or to transmit information (such as the purchase price) to the electronic device without a wireless network connection. If the information and / or initial visual analysis is sufficient to provide an initial quote, service terminal 100 and / or the app may provide the user with the price or an estimated price range of the electronic device, for example, through the app on the display screen of the electronic device and / or through service terminal display screen 104.

[0091] Figure 7A and Figure 7B This illustration depicts a screen display or graphical user interface (GUI) associated with determining the purchase price of an electronic device according to embodiments of the present technology. In some embodiments, the electronic device displays the illustrated information on its display screen. First, refer to... Figure 7A Page 710 displays an estimated price or quote for an electronic device such as a mobile phone. In the illustrated example, the app has identified the electronic device as having 16GB of memory and compatible with AT&T. ® Apple's connection to mobile carrier networks ® iPhone ®A 5S mobile phone, as shown in descriptive text 712. Page 710 displays a condition indicator 714 that describes the phone's characteristics as "well-loved," in a used condition indicating slight wear and tear. In the illustrated embodiment, the condition indicator 714 includes other options such as "like new" or "worn out." In other embodiments, for example, the condition indicator 714 allows the user to select whether the electronic device appears to be in poor, good, or excellent condition. Based on the phone's identity 712 and condition 714, the app presents a price estimate or offer 716 of $800 for the user to sell the electronic device at service terminal 100. Instruction 718 prompts the user to bring the electronic device to service terminal 100 (e.g., an "ecoATM" service terminal) to exchange it for cash before the price changes. Figure 7B A similar display page 720 is shown, illustrating an estimated price or offer for a lower-value electronic device. Description 722 identifies the electronic device as a mobile phone, such as one with 16GB of memory and AT&T... ® As the first generation of Apple for mobile operators ® iPhone ® Condition indicator 724 describes the phone as "well-loved," for example, with a cracked glass but a working display screen. Based on the phone's identity 722 and condition 724, the app proposes an assessment that the electronic device has no market value. Instruction 728 prompts the user to take the electronic device to service terminal 100 for recycling in a way that benefits the environment.

[0092] The illustrations in this disclosure include Figures 710 and 720, which depict representative computer displays or web pages that can be implemented in various ways, such as C++ or XML (Extensible Markup Language) web pages, HTML (Hypertext Markup Language) web pages, Wireless Access Protocol (WAP) web pages, LaTeX or PDF documents, or any script or method for creating displayable data such as text, images, animations, video, audio, etc. Screens or web pages facilitate the display of information and the receipt of input data, such as forms or pages with fields to be filled in, drop-down menus or entries allowing selection of one or more options, buttons, sliders, hypertext links, or other known user interface tools for receiving user input. While specific methods of displaying information to a user have been shown or described with reference to particular figures, those skilled in the art will recognize that various other alternative methods are possible. The terms “screen,” “web page,” and “page” are generally used interchangeably herein.

[0093] When implemented as a webpage, for example, the screen is stored as a display description, graphical user interface, or other method (e.g., instructions, links, fonts, colors, layouts, sizes, and relative positions, etc.) describing information on a computer screen, wherein the layout and information or content to be displayed on the page are stored in a database typically connected to a server. Generally, a “link” refers to any resource locator on a network that identifies a resource, such as a display description provided by an organization having a website or node on the network. A “display description,” as commonly used herein, refers to any method of automatically displaying information on a computer screen in any format recorded above, as well as other formats such as email or character / code-based formats, algorithm-based formats (e.g., generated vectors), matrix or bitmap formats, animation or video formats, etc. Although aspects of the invention are described herein in a networked environment, some or all of the features can be implemented in a single-computer environment.

[0094] Figure 8 This is a flowchart of routine 800 for obtaining information about an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present technology. In various embodiments, an app and / or a remote server operatively connectable to the app may execute some or all of the routines of routine 800. For example, routine 800 may be executed when a user instructs the app to price a potentially recyclable electronic device, causing the app to receive or otherwise obtain information about the electronic device. In some embodiments, the electronic device may be directly queried by an app running thereon, such as by using an operating system application programming interface (API) to obtain information about the device. As described above by reference... Figure 5 As described, the app and / or remote server can then use the information to determine the purchase price of the electronic device, and can store information about the electronic device to facilitate the recycling of the electronic device.

[0095] In block 802, routine 800 receives a user's request to price an electronic device. For example, a user can initiate the process of pricing a recycled electronic device by selecting an option displayed by the app on the screen of the electronic device. As in other embodiments, when a user installs and runs the app on the electronic device for the first time, the initial operation of the app allows routine 800 to obtain information about the electronic device running the app.

[0096] In decision block 804, routine 800 determines whether the app can directly query the electronic device. For example, the app may be running on a platform that allows the app to directly access detailed information about the electronic device and its configuration, as described below with reference to block 806. On the other hand, the app may be running on an electronic device that does not allow such access, or the user may not grant the app permission to obtain some or all of the information that would be useful in determining the value of the electronic device. In another embodiment, the user may use the app to find the value of another device where the app is not running, thus preventing the app from directly obtaining information about the electronic device.

[0097] If the app cannot directly query the electronic device, then routine 800 in block 805 presents a device identifier interface to the user to identify the electronic device. For example, in some embodiments, the app presents the user with a hierarchical structure of the screen display to identify the brand (or trademark) and model of the electronic device, such as as described below with reference to Figures 9A-9D The description is as follows. In other embodiments, the app may prompt the user (e.g., through a dialogue, which the app can display on the screen of the electronic device) to provide more general and / or more specific information about the electronic device. For example, the app may allow the user to confirm the type of electronic device (e.g., laptop computer, television, smartwatch, game console, music player, wireless headphones, mobile phone, virtual reality display, etc.). As another example, the app may request detailed information such as the color and / or type of the electronic device, such as information about mobile phones manufactured in various types or devices that may include external or interchangeable parts (e.g., console panel). In some embodiments, the app may prompt the user to submit an identifier of the electronic device. For example, the app may guide the user to enter the model number, serial number, or IMEI of the electronic device. As another example, the app may guide the user to navigate to the device settings "About" page, obtain a screenshot of the displayed information, and then provide a copy of the screenshot to the app (e.g., for a remote server to perform optical character recognition (OCR) on the screenshot) to identify the electronic device.

[0098] In block 807, routine 800 receives user input identifying the electronic device. For example, in some embodiments, the user responds to the hierarchy of the displayed screen to identify the wireless carrier, brand, model, storage capacity, etc. of the electronic device, as described below with reference to Figures 9A-9D The description is as follows. In some embodiments, the user responds to prompts from the app regarding information about the electronic device, such as by selecting a button option displayed on the electronic device screen or by verbally responding to audio prompts or audio questions. For example, the app may receive audio input from the user in response to the prompts and transmit that audio input to a remote server (e.g., Figure 4The remote server computer (404) is used for voice recognition and to receive the content of the recognized user response from the remote server. As described above, the app can also receive input from the user's identification information, such as device model and / or unique identification information such as serial number or IMEI. After receiving user input identifying the electronic device, routine 800 continues to execute block 810.

[0099] Returning to decision block 804, if the app can directly query the electronic device, then in block 806, routine 800 queries the electronic device through the app to obtain information such as the device's identity. For example, a user can download the app to their mobile phone, execute the app, and instruct the app to evaluate the mobile phone, such as by selecting options presented by the app to price the electronic device. The app can be designed to run on a specific software platform (e.g., iOS). ® Android TM Windows ® The app launches based on prior knowledge of the operating system and an app installed on that operating system. In some embodiments, the app can be programmed using information available on the platform and interfaces (e.g., application programming interfaces (APIs) or databases) that can be used to obtain that information. For example, the app can use an API to access the mobile phone's logs to obtain information such as the number of charge / discharge cycles (to indicate the condition of the phone's rechargeable battery) and / or call logs (to indicate potential problems with the radio hardware or software if recent calls were not successfully completed). Information may include, for example, the electronic device's MAC address, IMEI number, electronic serial number (ESN), integrated circuit card identifier (ICCID), manufacturer ID, model, storage capacity, radio band (e.g., frequency range and encoding, such as CDMA, GSM, LTE, etc.), charging status, etc. In some embodiments, the app includes permissions to obtain various types of information about the electronic device or to access various resources of the electronic device on the electronic device on which the app is installed. For example, the app may be associated with a set of permissions (e.g., listed using the <Use Permissions> XML tag in Android). TM This group of permissions (which can be selected by the developer and is either automatically granted when the app is installed, or the user must consent to before the app can be installed) is associated with explicit permissions. In another embodiment, the app may request runtime permissions to obtain information about the electronic device and / or the user (e.g., iOS). ® Local information permissions dialog), and / or device features such as cameras and images taken by cameras.

[0100] In block 808, routine 800 uses an identifier to query one or more databases to identify an electronic device and / or device status. For example, the app may construct a database query string based on information obtained through querying the electronic device, such as the electronic device's model, serial number, and / or IMEI. The app may use one or more local and / or remote databases to respond to the query, such as lookup tables included in or associated with the app in local storage and / or remotely hosted databases or services. The local and / or remote databases may be data structures indexed according to device identifiers and / or constructed to identify popular devices and / or devices previously used or indicated as owned by the user. In some embodiments, for example, the app contains a database of several popular electronic devices. The app may compare information about the electronic device with information in the local database to determine whether the electronic device is one of several popular devices. If no match is found, the app may transmit the query to a remote server for comparison with a database containing a large number of devices.

[0101] In block 809, in response to the query described above, routine 800 receives information identifying the electronic device and / or its status. For example, in response to a query including the model number of the electronic device, the app may receive the device manufacturer's uniquely formatted identification, model designation, known features and / or characteristics, user-provided options, and / or other device-specific information, etc. The app may also communicate with remote servers and / or services such as GSMA IMEI databases (e.g., for analyzing mobile phone IMEI codes), stolen device databases (e.g., including device identifiers associated with police reports), and / or services configured to provide data, wherein the data is related to whether the electronic device is connected to a remote user account (e.g., for cloud services). ® Apple account ® This is related to the GSX server. Using responses from such local and / or remote databases, routine 800 can determine the identity of the electronic device (e.g., its brand and model) and whether the electronic device is in an acceptable state to be processed by service terminal 100 (e.g., as described below). Figure 10 and Figure 11 As described, determining whether an electronic device is under the control of a remote user.

[0102] In block 810, routine 800 prompts the user to receive information about the electronic device and / or its status. This information may include device-specific configuration information and / or information not obtainable by directly querying the app. For example, the app may prompt the user (e.g., by displaying a question on the screen of the electronic device and / or by playing an audio command to the user) to indicate whether there are any dead pixels on the electronic device's display screen (e.g., the touchscreen 432 of device 330), identify damage, or indicate whether the electronic device is linked to a remote user account that allows a remote user to control the electronic device, etc. As another example, for electronic devices associated with or potentially associated with a subscription or service (e.g., mobile phones requiring carrier information), the app may use the device's user interface to prompt the user to enter information about when the user contract for the carrier service terminates, if such information is available. In block 811, routine 800 receives information from the user about the electronic device and / or its status. For example, the app may receive responses from the user through the electronic device's user input interface, such as text input, touchscreen button responses, checkboxes, etc. In some embodiments, routine 800 uses audio speech recognition, image analysis, posture detection, accelerometer input and / or other input tools to receive interactive input from the user.

[0103] In block 812, routine 800 requests information about the user and / or user preferences. For example, before the user recycles the electronic device at service terminal 100, the app may request the user's name; prompt the user to pose for a photo to compare with a photo on the user's driver's license and / or a photo taken by service terminal camera 116; request the user's driver's license number; prompt the user to enter biometric data such as a thumbprint; request user login credentials such as a user ID and password; require the user to enter his or her physical address and / or email address (e.g., for sending receipts to the user); request payment destination preference information, etc.

[0104] In block 813, routine 800 receives information about the user and / or user preferences. For example, in response to a prompt described above with reference to block 812, the app may receive a name entered by the user; take a photo of the seller; obtain the user's driver's license number; obtain biometric data such as a thumbprint (e.g., using Apple's fingerprint database). ® Apple Phone ® 5S, Samsung ® Galaxy S5 ® Or HTC ONE ® (Fingerprint sensor on Max); receives user login credentials such as user ID and password; receives the user's physical address and / or email address; obtains payment destination preference information, etc. Routine 800 ends after block 813.

[0105] In some embodiments, routine 800 includes remote notification and / or security functions based on received information about the electronic device and / or the user. For example, routine 800 may obtain a piece of information from more than one source and check the consistency of the multi-source information. For example, to confirm that the seller is the owner of the electronic device, routine 800 may compare the name entered by the user and / or the user's name on the user's driver's license with the name associated with the electronic device, such as the name of the owner associated with a remote user account. If the names do not match, routine 800 may, for example, prompt the user to unassociate the electronic device from the remote user account using the owner's credentials, or may mark the device as potentially stolen. As another example, after detecting the IMEI or other unique identifier on the electronic device according to one or more databases as described above with reference to block 808, routine 800 may determine that the identifier of the electronic device corresponds to a stolen device (or, for example, a copied or cloned mobile phone). In these scenarios, if an electronic device is reported stolen (e.g., by sending an email message to the owner's address stored on the electronic device), routine 800 may automatically notify the user (e.g., by displaying a message on the electronic device's screen) and / or notify the owner of the record, service provider (e.g., the mobile phone's wireless service operator 422), device manufacturer 424, law enforcement agencies, etc. For example, an app may report the phone's location and received user identification information as described above with reference to block 810 to law enforcement agencies (e.g., by sending an automated email message) to help law enforcement agencies recover the electronic device and return it to its owner. The ability to assist in recovering stolen devices (e.g., identifying cloned mobile phones that may violate owner privacy and / or abuse operator networks) may encourage users, operators, or manufacturers to add apps to mobile phones and / or other electronic devices.

[0106] In some embodiments, this technology includes, as referenced above. Figure 8 The system describes the aggregated information acquired. For example, to improve app operation and enhance app usability for users, the system may determine information about the following: where users acquire the app (e.g., from a website, app store, or service terminal 100); what types of devices are popular with app users (e.g., on which devices users install the app and on which devices users price their devices using the app); user demographics; which features of the app are most popular; how frequently users are near service terminal 100 and how frequently they use service terminal 100; the percentage of users who price their electronic devices using the app and subsequently return them at service terminal 100; how long it typically takes users to bring their devices to service terminal 100, etc.

[0107] Figures 9A-9D This is a display diagram illustrating a screen display for identifying an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present technology. For example, a user running an app on a mobile phone might want to price a tablet computer that is not running the app, or might want to determine the value of an old mobile phone that is not powered on or has a network connection to download the app. The app can provide an interface configured to enable the user to quickly identify the electronic device.

[0108] First see Figure 9A Page 910 displays a list of potential recycling devices, including mobile phones 914 and 918, and a tablet computer 916. By way of illustration only, in the illustrated embodiment, the app runs on mobile phone 918, which is referred to as "your phone" via relevant text. If a user wants to recycle an electronic device that is not listed, a plus icon 912 allows the user to add another device to the device list. The app provides flexibility and convenience to users by allowing them to add multiple devices to be priced for recycling: users can manage their individual devices (e.g., track their changing value over time), decide which devices to recycle and when to recycle them, and bring multiple devices to service terminal 100 at once for recycling. In some embodiments, the app provides aggregate information about the value of electronic devices in the user's list of potential recycling devices.

[0109] exist Figure 9B In the middle, as referred to above Figure 8 As described in block 805, page 920 illustrates the device identification interface. The illustrated example allows users to identify electronic devices by carrier 922, brand 924, and model 928. For example, in... Figure 9A In order for the app to display page 920, the user can select... Figure 9A In the "Add Device" option 912, select "AT&T" from the list of carriers (not shown). In the illustrated example, the user has already selected the carrier AT&T, indicated by the checkmark icon. ® 922, then the app highlights the "Trademark?" indicator 924 and displays the device manufacturer's trademark 926. The list of examples of device manufacturer trademarks 926 includes "Samsung" in the center of the top row. Users can select Samsung. ® As an electronics manufacturer, such as Samsung, pressing a touchscreen ® Icon. In Figure 9C The image on page 930 shows that the user has selected Samsung. ® The manufacturer, 932, is indicated by a checkmark icon. The app highlights the "Model?" indicator for 934 and displays Samsung. ® A list of 936 devices is provided for users to select to identify the model of the electronic device. Figure 9D In the middle, page 940 shows the complete selection of electronic device 942: AT&T ® Samsung ® Galaxy S5 ® Mobile phone. After the user has identified the electronic device's operator, brand (or trademark), and model using the illustrated device identification interface, the user can select the "Done" indicator 944. The app can then add the electronic device 942 to the list of potential recycling devices.

[0110] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating a routine 1000 for preparing an electronic device for recycling according to an embodiment of the present technology. In various embodiments, an app and / or a remote server operatively connected to the app can execute some or all of the routines in routine 1000. In some instances, for example, an electronic device that a user wishes to sell for recycling (e.g., at service terminal 100) may be in an unacceptable state for recycling. One example of an unacceptable electronic device is one associated with a remote user account that enables the user to remotely control the electronic device, such as tracking the device, initiating actions on the device (e.g., making the device make a sound or display information), locking the device (and / or changing the password to access or reactivate the device), erasing data from the device (“remote erase”), and / or disabling the device (remote device “destruct switch”). The association of electronic devices such as computers, tablets, and mobile phones with remote user accounts is increasingly common. Examples of such remote user accounts include cloud-based services provided by device manufacturers, wireless service operators, or other third parties. For example, Android... TM Devices and Google Play TM The account is associated with the Android TM Device users can use Android Lost TM Remote device control software is pushed to electronic devices, enabling users to remotely locate and erase them, even after the user no longer owns the device. When an electronic device is associated with such a remote user account, it can be password-protected or otherwise locked to the user's identity, preventing it from being reset or used by another individual (such as a subsequent purchaser). Furthermore, the remote user account can allow the account owner to remotely lock or disable the associated device to prevent unauthorized use. For example, if Apple... ®If a device, such as an Apple phone, is connected to a cloud service account, it cannot be recycled because the seller can remotely lock the phone and prevent it from being used by the buyer. As a result, an electronic device may have no market when associated with such a remote user account or other device control features (such as an enterprise device access and tracking system associated with an organization or computing system rather than a specific user). Therefore, in order to sell such an electronic device at service terminal 100, the user should first decouple the electronic device from the remote user account. The app can help the user identify these problems before bringing the electronic device to user terminal 100 and put the device in a recycling-acceptable state.

[0111] In block 1002, routine 1000 detects whether a remote user account is associated with an electronic device. For example, the app can use the operating system API 331 on the electronic device (…). Figure 3 This determines whether an electronic device is associated with a remote user account. As another example, to determine Apple... ® Is the device connected to cloud services? ® Remote user accounts are associated; example 1000 can query Apple. ® Equipment manufacturer 424 server ( Figure 4 (e.g., a Global Service Exchange (GSX) server on asx.apple.com). In some embodiments, obtaining information may include: receiving a user's response to a question or prompt displayed to the user on the electronic device by the app, and / or instructing the user to perform an action requiring the electronic device to be unlocked and activated before an action can be performed (e.g., displaying the home screen of the electronic device). In some embodiments, for example, by using a query through the electronic interface of the electronic device, and / or by analyzing information displayed on the screen of the electronic device (e.g., if the user indicates that the electronic device is displaying information indicating that the electronic device is lost and should be returned to its owner), routine 1000 may detect that the electronic device has been locked by a remote user account. In some embodiments, routine 1000 may also detect, for example, whether a PIN or other code controls access to the electronic device, and / or whether an automatic reactivation lock has intervened on the electronic device.

[0112] In decision block 1003, if no remote user account is detected, routine 1000 proceeds to block 1014. Otherwise, if a remote user account is detected, routine 1000 proceeds to block 1004. In block 1004, routine 1000 notifies the user that the electronic device is in an unacceptable recycling state. For example, when an electronic device is associated with a remote user account, the app can display a message on the device's screen to remind the user that the device is in an unacceptable recycling state, and the app can ask the user if he or she wants to change the state of the electronic device in preparation for recycling it.

[0113] In decision block 1006, if the user chooses not to change the state of the electronic device, routine 1000 terminates. However, if the user chooses to change the state of the electronic device to make electronic device recycling acceptable, then in block 1008, routine 1000 provides steps to unassociate the electronic device from the remote user account. For example, the app may cause the screen of the electronic device to display instructions that guide the user to perform the necessary steps to invalidate the remote user account. For example, through the electronic device or an app running on a separate device, routine 1000 may display instructions including animated images or text, photos, and / or video navigation. In some embodiments, as the user follows the instructions, routine 1000 updates the instructions; for example, when routine 1000 detects that an instruction has been followed, it displays the next instruction until all steps are completed. In some embodiments, in addition to presenting steps to the user for following, the app may assist the user in performing such steps. For example, the app may activate a settings application or activation options screen, and add instructions or highlight controls for user activation, or modify the settings of the electronic device with the user's authorization (e.g., prompting the user to enter a password to allow modification).

[0114] In block 1010, following the steps provided in block 1008, routine 1000 checks whether the user has unlinked the electronic device from the remote user account. In decision block 1012, as described above, routine 1000 determines whether the user has successfully unlinked the electronic device from the remote user account. If unsuccessful, routine 1000 returns to block 1004 (e.g., notifying the user that the electronic device's status remains unacceptable for recycling because it is still associated with the remote user account) and repeats the steps described above. On the other hand, if the user succeeds, in block 1014, routine 1000 notifies the user that the electronic device does not have any device control features of the remote user account, thereby placing the electronic device in an acceptable recycling state at the recycling service terminal 100. After block 1014, routine 1000 terminates.

[0115] Figure 11This is a flowchart of a routine 1100 for determining the purchase price of an electronic device controlled by a remote device according to an embodiment of the present invention. In various embodiments, the app and / or a remote server operatively connected to the app may execute some or all of the programs in routine 1100. For example, routine 1100 may be executed when a user's electronic device is associated with a remote device control feature (e.g., a feature associated with a remote user account). The user may run the app to determine the value of the electronic device without disabling the remote device control feature. The app may remind the user to disable the remote device control feature before providing a purchase price, or it may provide a price that varies depending on whether the user has disabled the remote device control feature before recycling the device at service terminal 100.

[0116] In block 1102, as shown above, for example... Figure 8 and Figure 10 As described, routine 1100 obtains information about an electronic device (e.g., a mobile phone). Routine 1100 may query, for example, the electronic device and / or services provided by the device manufacturer 424 or by another third party providing remote device control capabilities. In decision block 1104, routine 1100 determines, based on the aforementioned information, whether or not the electronic device is subject to remote device control features. For example, the electronic device may be associated with a remote user account that enables the owner to remotely control the electronic device, such as allowing the owner to disable a "destructive switch" feature of the electronic device. If the information indicates that the electronic device is not associated with a remote user account, or that the electronic device is only associated with a remote user account that does not include remote device control features (e.g., a webmail account removed from the electronic device via a factory reset), then the electronic device is not subject to remote device control features, and routine 1100 proceeds to block 1106. In block 1106, as described above... Figure 5 As described, routine 1100 evaluates electronic devices and determines their purchase price.

[0117] On the other hand, if information indicates that the electronic device can be associated with a remote user account that includes remote device control features capable of starting the electronic device, the user may be required to disable the remote device control features before selling the electronic device at the recycling service terminal 100. In block 1108, routine 1100 informs the user that the electronic device is in a recycling-unacceptable state because it may be controlled by remote device control features. Routine 1100 prompts the user (e.g., via a dialog box on the electronic device screen) whether the user chooses to disable the remote device control features or receive a condition-based price offer for the electronic device. For example, routine 1100 may provide a price offer based on the condition of the electronic device in a recycling-acceptable state, and / or may provide a price offer based on an assessment of the electronic device, wherein the assessment is an evaluation of the electrical and physical condition of the electronic device determined at service terminal 100. In some embodiments, for example, the user may want to determine the value of the electronic device before taking the step of requesting the remote device control features to be disabled. In decision block 1110, routine 1100 determines whether the user wants to receive a condition-based price offer. If the user does not want to accept the conditional offer, then in block 1112, as the user continues to recycle the electronic device, routine 1100 evaluates the electronic device and determines the purchase price of the electronic device, which depends on the electronic device being in an acceptable condition.

[0118] Otherwise, in block 1114, as mentioned above... Figure 10 The description and references below Figures 12A-12C As described, routine 1100 prompts the user to disable the remote device control feature. In decision block 1116, routine 1100 determines whether the device control feature of the remote user account has been disabled. If it has been disabled, routine 1100 proceeds to block 1106 as described above. If it has not been disabled, the user does not want the situational offer and has not disabled the device control feature, therefore routine 1100 does not provide a purchase price offer. After block 1106 or block 1116, routine 1100 ends.

[0119] Figures 12A-12C This is a display diagram illustrating a device screen display associated with a feature of disabling remote device control according to an embodiment of the present technology. In some embodiments, these displays... Figures 12A-12C See above for reference Figure 10 and Figure 11 The described routines are used in combination. For example, if the app determines that an electronic device is under the control of a remote device and the user indicates an intention to recycle the electronic device, the app may display something like... Figures 12A-12C The command shown disables the remote device control feature. "Check My Phone" is Apple's... ® Apple Phone Operating System ®Examples of the remote device control features of the device are described herein for illustrative purposes.

[0120] First see Figure 12A The image on page 1210 shows an Apple logo. ® Apple Phone Operating System ® The device settings include a button or control 1212 for the "Find My Apple Phone" feature. Control 1212 is displayed as "On," indicating that the aforementioned function is active. As long as this function is active, if the electronic device is lost or stolen, the owner can attempt to locate and / or remotely disable the device. For example, a user can log into their remote user account on icloud.com, select the electronic device, and press a button to play a sound on the device, lock the device, track its movement, or erase it. To prevent the electronic device from being controlled by the user after it has been sold at service terminal 100, the app in this embodiment requires the user to disable the "Find My Apple Phone" function.

[0121] Figure 12B This image shows an enlarged portion of the instruction screen 1220 used to access the device settings control panel or app and disable the "Find My Apple Phone" feature. Example instruction 1222 guides the user to disable the "Find My Apple Phone" feature, for example, by clicking or sliding a button or toggle switch control 1212 to the left to place it in the "Off" state 1224. For example, the instruction could animate controllers 1212 / 1224 to show the user how to disable the "Find My Apple Phone" feature. Figure 12C The illustration shows Apple's requirement for user authentication on electronic devices before the "Find My Apple Phone" feature was disabled. ® iOS ® The device displays page 1230. After switching control 1212 to the "Off" state, the electronic device prompts the user to enter the device owner's account password 1232. Only after the user enters the correct authentication code can the feature be turned off 1234. Figures 12A-12C The display shown in the figure is provided by way of example only, and the disclosed technology includes many other embodiments.

[0122] Figure 13This is a flowchart of a routine 1300 for preparing for the sale of an electronic device at service terminal 100, according to an embodiment of the present technology. For example, before a user recycles an electronic device at service terminal 100, the app can help the user prepare for a successful transaction by sending device information to service terminal 100, verifying that the electronic device does not have a remote user account, helping the user back up personal content on the electronic device, and / or assisting the user in deleting the electronic device. In various embodiments, the app and / or operatively connectable to a remote server of the app, and / or some or all of the executable routines 1300 in service terminal 100.

[0123] In block 1302, routine 1300 receives a request to prepare to sell an electronic device. For example, the app may display a user-selectable "Ready to recycle my device!" option (e.g., via the electronic device's touchscreen). As another example, after the app presents the purchase price to the user (e.g., as described above...), Figure 5 As described, if a user indicates that he or she wishes to take the next step in order to recycle the electronic device at the purchase price, the app can prompt the user to prepare to recycle the electronic device at service terminal 100.

[0124] In block 1304, routine 1300 obtains information about the electronic device and / or about the user in order to facilitate the sale of the electronic device at service terminal 100. Examples of some of the information that routine 1300 can obtain are referenced above. Figure 8 The description is as follows. For example, an app can retrieve a unique identifier for an electronic device and information about the latest purchase price of the electronic device from a data structure maintained by the app on the electronic device. In block 1305, routine 1300 sends information about the electronic device and / or the user to one or more service terminals 100, enabling the service terminal 100 to identify and purchase the electronic device more quickly. In some embodiments, the app can send the unique identifier for the electronic device and information about the latest purchase price of the electronic device to a remote server 404, a cloud storage service 426, a service terminal operator 432, and / or the user's computer 418 (e.g., another device running the app). For example, the service terminal 100 can receive or retrieve information from the remote server 404. In other embodiments, the app can prompt the user to submit user identification information, such as a photograph, thumbprint, driver's license information, etc., to speed up or skip some identification steps at the service terminal 100, as described above. Figure 2C Describe the user verification steps.

[0125] In block 1306, routine 1300 verifies that the electronic device is in an acceptable state for purchase at service terminal 100. In some embodiments, for example, the app may collaborate with a remote server to determine whether the electronic device is controlled by a remote user account provided by the manufacturer or operator, the remote user account including remote device control features; and instruct the user to remove the electronic device from the account before recycling it, as referenced above. Figure 10 and Figure 11 The description continues. In other embodiments, the app can search for information on any account stored locally on the electronic device, including, for example, an online banking account and / or other services configured to identify the electronic device, which may still be active on the user's device, and the app can help the user unassociate the electronic device from such accounts. To identify such an account, the app can, for example, obtain a list of other apps presented on the electronic device (e.g., financial company apps or webmail service apps), guide the user to check web servers typically associated with automated device login, etc.

[0126] In block 1308, routine 1300 determines whether user content on the electronic device has been backed up. For example, the app may prompt the user to indicate whether he or she should perform a local data backup and / or use an automatic cloud sync backup service. If the user indicates that data should be backed up to a web service, the app may check for online backups of user images, records, contacts, and / or appointments. In decision block 1310, if user content has not been backed up, then in block 1312, routine 1300 may prompt the user to save copies of this information (as well as passwords, bookmarks, and other personal content) to local archives and / or cloud-based storage, and / or provide backup services to help the user transfer data out of the electronic device, thereby preparing for the recycling of the electronic device. If user content has been backed up, then in block 1314, routine 1300 assists the user in eliminating the electronic device. For example, the app may guide the user to perform a reset of the electronic device to return it to its factory settings, such as by displaying the steps to be performed on the screen of the electronic device, and / or by sending the user an email with a list of instructions. In some embodiments, when a user sells an electronic device at service terminal 100, the app prompts the user for permission to perform a factory reset of the electronic device. Routine 1300 ends after block 1314.

[0127] Figure 14A and 14BThis is a display diagram illustrating a screen display associated with guiding a user to a device recycling service terminal 100 according to an embodiment of the present technology. For example, after a user has prepared himself or his electronic device for recycling and / or received a purchase price for the electronic device, the user may want to know where to recycle the electronic device. The app may display, for example, a map, address, and / or directions to the recycling service terminal 100 on the screen of the electronic device.

[0128] Referring first to 14A, display page 1410 illustrates a map-based interface 1412 showing the location of a service terminal. In response to the user selecting the "ATM Locator" option 1418, the app displays the service terminal's location information graphically. For example, a highlighted icon 1414 indicates a currently available service terminal 100. Another information panel 1416 for the service terminal 100 includes the name, street address, whether the service terminal 100 is operational (e.g., idle or in use), and directional icons from the app (e.g., via a standalone map application) for providing segmented navigation to the service terminal 100. For example, the app may automatically present the information panel 1416 about the nearest service terminal 100. Figure 14B In the illustration, page 1420 shows a list-based interface 1422 that displays the location of a service terminal. For example, list 1422 includes the same highlighted icon 1414, an information panel 1416 that extends to display the full address and the uptime of service terminal 100, and an indication of the service terminal's indoor location.

[0129] Figure 15 This is a flowchart of a routine 1500 for notifying or reminding a user of a change in the value of an electronic device according to an embodiment of this technology. In various embodiments, the app and / or a remote server operatively connected to the app can execute some or all of the routines in routine 1500. In various instances, for example, it is useful for the app to notify or remind the user to bring the electronic device to a service terminal 100 for recycling. For example, this is done after the user receives the purchase price of the electronic device (e.g., at the service terminal 100 or using the reference above). Figure 5 After the app described, users may not immediately recycle their electronic devices. Users may wait to recycle them, or they may forget to do so. Routine 1500 encourages users to recycle their electronic devices while they still have market value by providing reminders, such as price change notifications.

[0130] In block 1502, routine 1500 selects electronic devices that the user has not yet recycled. For example, in some embodiments, routine 1500 selects one or more devices associated with the user, such as a list of users who have recycled devices (e.g., such as...). Figure 9AThe device list 910 shown contains all devices. As another example, the app can select the electronic device running the app. Routine 1500 can contact a remote server to verify whether the user has recycled the listed electronic devices. In some embodiments, routine 1500 associates the user with all devices on which the user has used the app; when the user starts using the app with different devices, the app can query for new and / or old devices.

[0131] In decision block 1504, routine 1500 determines whether the user has already priced the electronic device. For example, routine 1500 may determine whether the user has already used, as described above. Figure 5 The described app or service terminal 100 prices the electronic device. If the user does not receive the purchase price for the electronic device, in block 1506, routine 1500 reminds the user to price the electronic device for recycling at service terminal 100. For example, the app may send a notification to the user on the electronic device (e.g., displaying information on the screen, lighting up an LED, making a buzzer vibrate, playing a sound, etc.), and / or a remote server may send a notification to the user, such as an email or text message, to remind the user of the opportunity to recycle the electronic device, to offer the user coupons or special offers. Routine 1500 ends after block 1506.

[0132] On the other hand, if the user has already received the purchase price of the electronic device, then in block 1508, routine 1500 compares the purchase price of the electronic device with its current price. For example, the app or server (e.g.) Figure 4 The server (404) can retrieve the previously determined purchase price of electronic equipment. See above for reference. Figure 5 As described, the app and / or server can determine the current price of the electronic device. In some embodiments, determining the current price of the electronic device includes predicting the future value of the electronic device or its future value over time.

[0133] Electronic devices typically lose value over time, although their prices can increase depending on supply and demand. In decision block 1510, routine 1500 identifies whether the current price of an electronic device has changed from, for example, the purchase price, or whether the user has received prior notification of a price change since the latest price was announced to them. For example, the app can identify actual or predicted price changes for electronic devices. In some embodiments, routine 1500 uploads data about the price of electronic devices to the app (e.g., based on periodic execution, such as daily), and for electronic devices for which the app obtains information, the app queries for price changes for those electronic devices, such as those in the user's recycling device list. In some embodiments, after a set period of time, routine 1500 queries for changes in the value of previously priced devices, or, when the value of a device is about to change significantly or has already changed significantly, routine 1500 receives information to alert users of a specific brand or model of device.

[0134] If the price of the electronic device has not changed, in decision block 1512, routine 1500 determines whether a threshold period has passed. For example, routine 1500 may wait until the user has had the opportunity to bring the electronic device to recycling service terminal 100 before sending a reminder to the user to do so. In some embodiments, routine 1500 resets the threshold period when the user uses the app to reprice the electronic device and / or locates service terminal 100. In some embodiments, the threshold period is measured based on the amount of time since pricing, the amount of time since the user's most recent activity with the app (e.g., on a specific electronic device or on any of the user's electronic devices), and / or the amount of time since routine 1500 provided the most recent notification to the user. If the threshold period has not passed, routine 1500 ends after block 1512. On the other hand, if the threshold period has passed, in block 1514, routine 1500 reminds the user to recycle the electronic device. For example, routine 1500 may be configured to send a device recycling reminder to the user one day later, one week later, and / or one month later (as described above with reference to block 1506). In some embodiments, routine 1500 may be configured to remind the user to recycle the electronic device before the current purchase price expires. Routine 1500 ends after block 1514.

[0135] Returning to decision block 1510, if the current price of the electronic device has changed from the purchase price, then in block 1516, routine 1500 notifies the user of the price change. For example, the app may send a notification to the user on the electronic device and / or a remote server may send an email or text message to the user to notify them that the price of the device has increased or decreased, or that the price is expected to increase or decrease, and / or to offer the user coupons or special offers, etc. As another example, when the price of the electronic device changes while the purchase price remains valid, the app may notify the user that if they bring the electronic device to service terminal 100 within a set time period, they can sell the electronic device at the purchase price at service terminal 100. In some embodiments, the app can enable the user to set preferences or configure reminders to notify the user whether the price of the electronic device has changed. After block 1516, routine 1500 ends.

[0136] Figure 16 This is a flowchart of a routine 1600 for providing location-based notifications according to an embodiment of the present technology. In various embodiments, an app and / or a remote server operatively connected to the app may execute some or all of the routines of routine 1600. In some instances, for example, a user preparing to recycle his or her electronic device may not be aware that the recycling service terminal 100 is nearby. Routine 1600 can remind the user to recycle the electronic device while it is in use and inform the user of a convenient location for recycling the electronic device by providing a location-based notification to the user.

[0137] In block 1602, routine 1600 detects the location of the electronic device. For example, if the app is running on an electronic device (e.g., a mobile phone), the app can determine the approximate or precise location of the electronic device, such as through GPS location estimation, mobile operator tower positioning, Wi-Fi network data referencing, devices providing location services through the operating system, user-entered ZIP codes, etc. In block 1604, routine 1600 determines the location of a service terminal. For example, the app can query a service (e.g., a web service provided by server 404) to obtain information about service terminals 100 located near the electronic device's location, such as a list of the n nearest service terminal locations. In some embodiments, the app can store information about service terminals 100 in areas previously visited by the user, such as service terminals 100 in the city where the user is located when accessing the app.

[0138] In decision block 1606, routine 1600 determines whether an electronic device is near the serving terminal 100. For example, proximity determination includes predicting the location of the electronic device based on current movement and / or previous location patterns. As another example, detecting whether the serving terminal 100 is near the electronic device may include detecting a wireless signal from the serving terminal 100 indicating that the electronic device is within the wireless network range of the serving terminal 100. In some embodiments, if routine 1600 detects a wireless signal from the serving terminal 100, the electronic device may automatically wirelessly connect to the serving terminal 100.

[0139] If the electronic device is not near any service terminal 100, then routine 1600 terminates. However, if the electronic device is near a service terminal 100, then in block 1608, routine 1600 notifies the user (e.g., as described above). Figure 15 (Description of the procedure). For example, routine 1600 may remind the user that service terminal 100 is nearby and available, and / or offer the user coupons or special offers, etc. In some embodiments, routine 1600 presents a notification to the user only if the user has expressed a preference or otherwise agreed to receive such a notification, and / or if the user has already priced the electronic device for sale at service terminal 100. For example, routine 1600 may notify the user that the intended sale of the electronic device can be completed at a nearby service terminal 100 at a previously determined price, allowing the user to complete his or her device sale without having to travel a long distance. Furthermore, local notifications enable the system to offer location-specific rewards, such as the ability to redeem a discount at a vendor near service terminal 100. Routine 1600 ends after block 1608.

[0140] Figure 17 This is a flowchart of routine 1700 for transmitting information about an electronic device from an electronic device to a service terminal 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. In various embodiments, a mobile app configured according to the present invention may execute some or all of the routines in routine 1700. In some instances, for example, a user may want to recycle an electronic device but may not want to send information about the electronic device to a remote server. In other instances, a user may want to recycle an electronic device but does not have a network connection to send information to a remote server. In some embodiments such as these, for example, when a user brings an electronic device to the service terminal 100, routine 1700 may obtain information about the electronic device that will be transmitted to the service terminal 100.

[0141] In block 1702, routine 1700 acquires information about the electronic device. For example, routine 1700 may acquire device identifiers, such as the electronic device's MAC address, IMEI number, Electronic Serial Number (ESN), Integrated Circuit Board Identifier (ICCID), etc.; and other information useful for identifying and pricing the electronic device, such as the electronic device's brand and model, storage capacity, radio band (e.g., frequency range and encoding such as CDMA, GSN, LTE, etc.), charging status, etc. Information about the electronic device may also include: information generated and / or stored by the app, such as the electronic device's purchase price; the electronic device's historical price; the results of evaluations performed by the app on the electronic device (e.g., CPU performance data); information submitted to the app by the user (e.g., information about remote user accounts and / or information about the electronic device's status); information about the user's use of the app; and encodings stored by the app for identifying the electronic device, the user, and / or for quoting prices for the electronic device, etc.

[0142] In block 1704, routine 1700 determines that the electronic device is near the service terminal 100 (e.g., in the vicinity of the service terminal). For example, an app can track the location of its associated electronic device (e.g., as referenced above). Figure 16 The description of the process is as follows: The app determines that the device's location is near a known service terminal location. As another example, the user of the device can indicate to the app that he or she has brought the electronic device to service terminal 100 (e.g., by activating the app's "I am now at service terminal" function). In some embodiments, routine 1700 determines that the electronic device is near service terminal 100 based on detected wireless signals. For example, a Wi-Fi access point or base station associated with service terminal 100 can transmit packets advertising the access point station ID (e.g., BSSID and / or SSID) on various channels via its wireless transceiver 324. In some embodiments, the app is configured to identify multiple IDs associated with the service terminal access point, and / or configured to automatically connect (or prompt the user to connect the electronic device) to a wireless connection provided by service terminal 100, such as a Wi-Fi or Bluetooth network.

[0143] In block 1706, routine 1700 establishes communication between an electronic device and a service terminal 100. In some embodiments, establishing communication includes instructing a user to establish a wired connection between the service terminal 100 and the electronic device, for example by providing a suitable connector (e.g., a micro USB or Lightning connector) and instructions for connecting the connector to, as referenced above, for example... Figure 2CThe description of the electronic device is provided. In other embodiments, establishing communication includes establishing a wireless link for data transmission. For example, the service terminal 100 may provide a wireless network or point-to-point connection for communicating with the electronic device, such as a radio link (e.g., Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or NFC), an optical link (e.g., infrared data communication (IrDA), laser, or screen-based), and / or an audio link (e.g., high-frequency or ultrasonic).

[0144] In some embodiments, establishing a wireless link may include the app displaying instructions to the user, and / or displaying authentication information entered by the user on the electronic device and / or service terminal 100. For example, the app may present text and / or image instructions and video guidance on the screen of the electronic device (e.g., screen 342 of device 330), and / or play audio instructions through the speaker of the electronic device (e.g., speaker 344). These instructions may include codes or other identifiers that facilitate connection between the electronic device and the service terminal 100. Establishing a wireless link may also include receiving user input or authentication at the electronic device. For example, to pair a Bluetooth device with a service terminal via Bluetooth, the app may guide the user through one or more steps, such as activating the Bluetooth radio of the electronic device to make the device discoverable; selecting the service terminal 100 through the user interface of the electronic device; initiating a pairing process; providing a Bluetooth pairing code that the user can enter on the keyboard or screen of the electronic device, or the touchscreen 308 of the service terminal 100, or providing a Bluetooth pairing code that the app can enter; and / or confirming that the connection should be allowed. As another example, the service terminal 100 may provide a Wi-Fi network. By activating the Wi-Fi radio on the electronic device, selecting the network of the service terminal, entering a specific password, etc., the app can enable the electronic device to connect to the Wi-Fi network or prompt the user to connect the electronic device to the Wi-Fi network. Establishing a wireless link may also include the app guiding the user to perform actions, such as swiping an NFC-enabled device against or near the NFC sensor of the service terminal (e.g., within a few inches), or aligning the optical transceiver of the electronic device with the optical transceiver of the service terminal 100 (e.g., by pointing a laser or infrared LED or sensor at a designated optical window or device on the service terminal 100, or by aiming or placing the screen of the electronic device against a window on the service terminal 100 or in front of a camera of the service terminal 100, such as camera 116). In other embodiments, routine 1700 may provide the user with a visual code or image (e.g., a QR code) to scan with the app on the electronic device, thereby prompting the electronic device to connect to the wireless network of the service terminal (e.g., based on user authentication).

[0145] In block 1708, once communication has been established, routine 1700 transmits information from and / or about the electronic device to service terminal 100 via a wired or wireless connection. The transmitted information may include information about the electronic device obtained by the app, which cannot be communicated by service terminal 100 via the aforementioned connection. Figure 2C The described electrical detection directly accesses the device. For example, this information may include data about the user account, performance history data, user-submitted data about the electronic device's condition, etc. Service terminal 100 can use this information to more accurately evaluate the electronic device and price it more precisely. Routine 1700 ends after block 1708.

[0146] Figure 18 This is a flowchart of routine 1800 for remotely pricing an electronic device (e.g., a mobile phone) for recycling at service terminal 100, according to embodiments of the present invention. In various embodiments, service terminal 100 and / or a remote server operatively connected to service terminal 100 may execute some or all of the routines in routine 1800. In various embodiments, routine 1800 may be co-executed with routine 500 executed by an app described above on an electronic device, which may be remote from service terminal 100. For example, service terminal 100 and / or the remote server may provide software to be installed on the electronic device, remotely receive information about the electronic device through the software installed on the electronic device, use the received information to provide a purchase price for the electronic device, and record the purchase price so that when a user brings the electronic device to service terminal 100, the user can quickly recycle the electronic device at the offered purchase price.

[0147] In block 1802, routine 1800 provides software (e.g., an app) for installation on an electronic device. Through a website (e.g., a website associated with service terminal operator 432), routine 1800 can transmit software from device manufacturer 424 or a third party (e.g., Apple). ® app store SM Google Marketplace TM Stores, Amazon ® App Store TM Software from libraries such as those running on the electronic device, or provided to the electronic device from, for example, a service terminal 100 (e.g., supporting app downloads via wired or wireless connections). In block 1804, routine 1800 receives information about the electronic device and / or the user through software on the electronic device. For example, a user may download and run an app on the electronic device to obtain information such as... Figure 8 Regarding the information described above, the app may store and / or transmit information about the electronic device, such as storing or transmitting the aforementioned information to the referenced above. Figure 5The remote server 404 is described. As another example, in some cases, when a user installs an app on an electronic device, the system may receive or retrieve stored or transmitted installation reports (e.g., from the device manufacturer 424 or from the software library that provides the app to the electronic device). In various embodiments, routine 1800 may access the stored or transmitted information, for example, by receiving information at server 404.

[0148] In block 1806, routine 1800 records one or more identifiers of an electronic device or user. Examples of identifiers include the IMEI of a mobile phone, the serial number of a laptop computer, a unique wireless identifier of an electronic device, such as a Wi-Fi interface media access control address (MAC address), derived codes such as a unique hash value (based on, for example, the information received in block 1804), and serial codes or randomly assigned codes, such as those referenced above. Figure 5 The code described is given to the user. Routine 1800 may record the identifier in a registration database that indexes the identifiers of devices with installed software, such as devices for which the system has already priced (e.g., via software-based remote pricing) and / or devices previously evaluated by a service terminal. The database may be, for example, connected to a server 404 ( Figure 4 One or more databases 406 are associated with the service terminal 100, which may be stored in a cloud storage facility 426 distributed among the service terminals 100. For example, routine 1800 can register electronic devices and / or users by storing one or more identifiers in such a registry for identification at the service terminal 100. Routine 1800 may store some or all of the registry entries in one or more local or remote databases (e.g., database 406), and / or may provide the registry entries to one or more service terminals 100. In some embodiments, routine 1800 sends only a portion of the registry entries to a specific service terminal 100, such as information about registered devices located in the same geographic area (e.g., in the same city or state) as the service terminal 100, which limits the amount of data transmitted to the service terminal 100.

[0149] In block 1808, routine 1800 evaluates the electronic device based on the aforementioned information. On a server located far from the electronic device (e.g., server 404), for example, routine 1800 may use the received information in a price database, such as a lookup table, pricing model, or other data structure containing the prices of each electronic device. For example, the system may use an identifier to determine the brand and model of the electronic device, thereby using the brand and model of the electronic device (e.g., along with information about the condition of the electronic device) based on data in the database or pricing model to determine the price offered to the electronic device. In some embodiments, routine 1800 may determine a purchase price that allows the user to accept the price for exchanging the electronic device for a service terminal 100 recycling. In some embodiments, routine 1800 may determine a purchase price for the electronic device that depends on the references above. Figure 2B The visual condition of the electronic equipment at the described service terminal 100. In some embodiments, routine 1800 may determine an acquisition price, including a price range, based on the possible results of such assessment. In some instances, the electronic equipment may not have market value. In various embodiments, pricing data is updated on a continuous or periodic basis.

[0150] In block 1810, routine 1800 sends a purchase price offer for the electronic device based on an evaluation. In some embodiments, routine 1800 sends the purchase price offer from a server to a software app running on the electronic device. In block 1812, routine 1800 associates the offer with the electronic device and / or the user. For example, routine 1800 may store information about the price offer, the electronic device, and / or the user in database 406 (e.g., the registry described above), and / or in one or more data structures maintained by the electronic device, by the service terminal 100, and / or by other aspects of the technology. After block 1812, routine 1800 ends. When a user brings the electronic device to the service terminal 100, the example routine for recycling the electronic device is, for example, as referred to above. Figure 6 The described routine.

[0151] Figure 19 This is a flowchart of routine 1900 for providing accessibility to a user according to an embodiment of the present technology. In various embodiments, the app and / or service terminal 100 may execute some or all of the routines of routine 1900. For example, the app may be conveniently used by a user with specific accessibility needs, such as visual or hearing impairments, using the service terminal 100. The app may add technology provided on the service terminal 100 to help provide an ADA-compliant interface.

[0152] In block 1902, routine 1900 receives information about a user's accessibility needs. For example, the app may receive input from the user requesting an accessibility interface at the electronic device running the app; or the app may record user settings on the electronic device associated with the accessibility need, for example, via an operating system accessibility API; or the app may detect a Braille interface or other assistive technology connected to and / or operatively connected (e.g., via Bluetooth) to the user's device. In some cases, the app may run on an electronic device used by the user as an assistive tool to recycle different electronic devices. In some embodiments, routine 1900 may receive input from the user requesting an accessibility interface at service terminal 100, for example, on the terminal's touchscreen 104 interface or through audio input from the service terminal's microphone.

[0153] In block 1904, as mentioned above... Figure 17 As described, routine 1900 establishes a link between an electronic device and a service terminal, for example, via wireless communication. In block 1906, routine 1900 transmits information describing the user's accessibility needs for a user interface, for use in recycling transactions at service terminal 100. For example, before the user arrives at service terminal 100, the app may transmit accessibility information directly from the electronic device to service terminal 100, and / or record accessibility information connected to a remote server. As another example, if service terminal 100 has received input from the user requesting an accessibility interface, service terminal 100 may transmit information about the user's accessibility needs to the electronic device, for example, enabling the app to provide a portion of the accessibility interface to the user.

[0154] In block 1908, routine 1900 provides an accessible user interface based on the aforementioned information. For example, routine 1900 may differentiate the service terminal 100 based on information describing the accessibility requirements of the user interface, such as by displaying information in a larger font or in colors suitable for colorblind users to read on the service terminal's touchscreen 104. As another example, an app may display or play transaction-related information on the service terminal 100 using electronic device assistive technology, enabling the user to use the electronic device as an enhanced or alternative interface to the service terminal 100. For example, if the electronic device has a Braille display, routine 1900 may send information displayed on the service terminal's display screen 104 to the app, which may then display the information on a Braille display. Routine 1900 concludes after block 1908.

[0155] Figure 20This is a flowchart of a routine 2000 for determining that an electronic device has been correctly received by a service terminal 100 according to an embodiment of the present technology. In various embodiments, the app may execute some or all of the routines in routine 2000. In a typical recycling transaction at the service terminal 100, for example, a user places an electronic device such as a mobile phone 250 in the service terminal 100, the mobile phone 250 has been placed in a box, and payment has been made to the mobile phone 250, as described above, for example... Figures 2A-2D The description is as follows. However, fraudulent users may attempt to convert mobile phone 250 into a low-value object. For example, after pricing mobile phone 250 and bringing it to service terminal 100 to receive a quoted price (e.g., connecting mobile phone 250 to the service terminal's wireless network to confirm that the mobile phone is being recycled at service terminal 100), fraudulent users may attempt to submit a non-operational object that looks like the aforementioned mobile phone 250. However, mobile phone 250 can detect whether it was not properly submitted for recycling at service terminal 100 and can send a message to service terminal 100. In various embodiments, this technology can help confirm that the electronic device received by service terminal 100 is an electronic device that has been evaluated and priced by the app described above for sale at service terminal 100.

[0156] In block 2002 of routine 2000, as described above... Figure 17 As described, when a user brings his or her electronic device with an app to the service terminal 100, the app establishes communication between the electronic device and the service terminal 100. In block 2004, for example, as referenced above... Figure 16 As described, routine 2000 detects the location of an electronic device. In various embodiments, the service terminal 100 has instructed the user to submit an electronic device to the service terminal 100 for the service terminal to collect the electronic device (e.g., ...). Figures 2A-2D After being placed in the collection box 234, routine 2000 determines the location of the electronic device. In some embodiments, routine 2000 detects the location of the electronic device by detecting the signal strength and / or signal persistence of the electronic device, wherein the signal persistence includes changes in the signal strength of the electronic device. For example, if located in Figure 1The service terminal inspection area 108 behind the access panel or door 106 is configured to, for example, reflect wireless signals within the detection area and / or attenuate wireless signals outside the detection area. When the access panel or door 106 is closed, the app can detect whether such signals are reflected or attenuated, thereby detecting whether the electronic device is present in the inspection area 108. In some embodiments, the app can use an indoor positioning system (IPS) to track the location of the electronic device. In some embodiments, when the electronic device should be inside the service terminal 100, the app can cause the electronic device to take a picture and can analyze whether the picture resembles an image inside the service terminal 100 or an image from a test mode, and whether the resolution of the picture is equivalent to the resolution produced by a camera type found in that device mode.

[0157] In decision block 2006, routine 2000 determines whether the device is in the appropriate location. For example, routine 2000 may determine whether the detected location of the electronic device corresponds to the expected location of the electronic device (e.g., within inspection area 108 of service terminal 100). If routine 2000 determines that the device is in the appropriate location, routine 2000 terminates after decision block 2006. Otherwise, in block 2008, routine 2000 sends information to service terminal 100 (e.g., from the app via a communication link established between the electronic device and service terminal 100) indicating that the electronic device has not been properly submitted for recycling at service terminal 100. For example, if the app sends this information to service terminal 100, service terminal 100 may reject the submitted object, which does not appear to be from an electronic device running the app. Routine 2000 terminates after block 2008.

[0158] Figure 21 This is a flowchart of a routine 2100 for facilitating the evaluation of an electronic device at a service terminal 100, according to an embodiment of the present technology. In various embodiments, the app and the service terminal 100 may execute some or all of the routines of routine 2100. For example, the app may allow the service terminal 100 to evaluate features and components of the electronic device that may not be tested by other means. The app on the electronic device may activate various features and components of the electronic device in coordination with the testing of the service terminal to more thoroughly verify the operation and performance of the electronic device.

[0159] In block 2102, routine 2100 determines that the service terminal 100 is ready to perform an evaluation of the electronic device, for example, as described above. Figure 2B-2C The described electronic and / or visual assessment. For example, the electronic device may be electrically connected to service terminal 100 (wired or wireless, as referred above). Figure 17(Description of the process) and run the app, the service terminal 100 can send signals to the device running the program on the electronic device to test various features of the electronic device.

[0160] In step 2104, routine 2100 activates one or more device features for evaluation via service terminal 100. For example, the app can perform detailed testing of the electronic device's display screen by displaying one or more test patterns on the screen, allowing the camera in service terminal 100 to more clearly see any damaged pixels or damaged areas of the display. Such patterns may include a completely black screen displaying any pixels that are "on" rather than completely black; a completely white screen displaying any non-white pixels; and / or red, green, and blue screens to test the color gamut of each pixel on a typical RGB LCD screen. Other test patterns may include checkerboard and / or line patterns to show pixels that have leaked into their neighbors. The app may activate other features of the electronic device, such as the speaker, wireless transceiver, camera flash, etc.

[0161] In decision block 2106, routine 2100 determines whether all electronic device features selected for testing have been activated. If not all tests have been performed, routine 2100 continues to activate the next feature to be tested in block 2104 (e.g., according to a predetermined test plan, or depending on signals received from service terminal 100). For example, the corresponding processing performed by service terminal 100 may select a series of tests to perform (e.g., based on the features of the electronic device and / or based on the condition of the specific electronic device to be tested), send information describing the tests to be performed to the app, signal the app when it should proceed to the next test, etc. In some embodiments, the app may be configured to test various features of the device based on the type (e.g., mobile phone, camera, laptop computer, etc.) and model of the electronic device, and / or based on which features may have a significant impact on the value of the electronic device. After all selected features have been tested, routine 2100 ends.

[0162] This technology allows for the evaluation of various types of devices, including those running software applications or evaluated by such applications. Examples of such devices include mobile phones (e.g., smartphones and feature phones), tablets, wearable computers, gaming devices, media players, laptops, and desktop computers (e.g., device 330), which are to be evaluated for purchase by the automated service terminal 100. This technology enables users to submit information about electronic devices and / or themselves, obtain price quotes for electronic devices, prepare for the recycling of electronic devices, assist users in bringing electronic devices to the service terminal 100, and facilitate transactions, allowing users to sell electronic devices at the service terminal 100 with greater certainty and speed.

[0163] This technology includes other types and embodiments of various recycling machines. For example, this technology includes embodiments such as countertop recycling stations and / or retail store interface-based embodiments (e.g., semi-automated systems) operated or assisted by retail employees. As another example, this technology includes embodiments such as recycling machines configured to receive all types of devices, including larger items (e.g., desktop and laptop computers, televisions, game consoles, digital video recorders (DVRs), etc.).

[0164] The examples and embodiments of the invention described in detail above are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed above. While specific examples of the invention have been described above for illustrative purposes, those skilled in the art will recognize that various equivalent modifications are possible within the scope of the invention.

[0165] The foregoing description of features, advantages, or similar expressions does not imply that all features and advantages achievable using this technology should be considered as a single embodiment of the invention or in any single embodiment. Rather, expressions of features and advantages are to be understood as meaning that a particular feature, advantage, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of this technology. Therefore, the discussion of features and advantages, as well as similar expressions, throughout this specification may, but are not necessarily, refer to the same embodiment.

[0166] Furthermore, the features, advantages, and characteristics described herein can be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. Those skilled in the art will recognize that this technology can be implemented without requiring one or more specific features and advantages of a particular embodiment. In other instances, additional features and advantages may also be effective in a particular embodiment that may not appear in all embodiments of this technology.

[0167] Any patents and patent applications that may be listed in the attached filings, as well as other references as described above, are incorporated herein by reference. If necessary, aspects of the invention may be modified to provide further embodiments of the invention by employing the systems, functions, and concepts described in the foregoing references.

[0168] Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the specification and claims, the words “comprising,” “including,” and similar terms will be interpreted as encompassing, not as exclusive or exhaustive, that is, “including but not limited to.” The terms “connection,” “coupled,” or any variations thereof, as used herein, refer to any connection or coupling between two or more elements, whether direct or indirect; the coupling or connection between elements may be physical, logical, or a combination thereof. Furthermore, the words “this article,” “above,” “below,” and similar terms, when used in this application, refer to the entire application and not any particular part of it. Where the context permits, the singular or plural terms used in the above specific embodiments may also include the plural or singular, respectively. The word “or” in relation to a list of two or more items covers all of the following interpretations: any item in the list, all items in the list, and any combination of items in the list.

[0169] The teachings of this invention provided herein can be applied to other systems, not necessarily those described above. Elements and actions of the various examples described above can be combined to provide further embodiments of the invention. Some alternative embodiments of the invention may include not only additional elements beyond those described above, but also fewer elements. Furthermore, any specific figures indicated herein are merely examples: different values ​​or ranges may be used in alternative embodiments.

[0170] While the foregoing description depicts various embodiments and preferred modes of the invention, the invention can be practiced in many ways, regardless of the level of detail above. The details of the system can vary significantly in its specific implementation, but remain within the scope of this art. As described above, the specific terms used in describing certain features or aspects of the invention should not be construed as implying that the described terms are redefined herein to limit to any particular characteristic, feature, or aspect of the invention associated with those terms. In general, the terminology used in the following claims should not be construed as limiting the invention to the specific embodiments disclosed in the specification, unless these terms are expressly defined in the foregoing specific embodiments section. Therefore, the actual scope of the invention includes not only the disclosed examples but also all equivalent ways of practicing or implementing the invention under the claims.

[0171] As can be understood from the foregoing, specific embodiments of the invention have been described herein for illustrative purposes. However, various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the various embodiments of the invention. Furthermore, while various advantages associated with these embodiments of the invention have been described above in the context of certain embodiments, other embodiments may also exhibit these advantages, and not all embodiments necessarily need to demonstrate such advantages falling within the scope of the invention. Therefore, the invention is not limited except by the appended claims.

[0172] While certain aspects of the invention are set forth below in the form of certain claims, the applicant contemplates various aspects of the invention in the form of any number of claims. Accordingly, the applicant reserves the right to add additional claims after the filing of this application, or to add such additional claims in the form of either this application or a continuing application.

Claims

1. A method executed by an electronic device to assess the electronic device, the electronic device being processed at a service terminal operated by a consumer, characterized in that, The method comprises: obtaining information about the electronic device; determining an identifier associated with the electronic device; identifying a model or hardware configuration of the electronic device based on the information; determining a price of the electronic device based in part on the information and the identified model or hardware configuration; presenting the price to a user of the electronic device; and storing the identifier associated with the electronic device and the price.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, The electronic device is a used mobile phone.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein, Obtaining information about the electronic device comprises querying an application interface of an operating system on the electronic device.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein, Determining an identifier associated with the electronic device comprises obtaining a unique identifier of the electronic device.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein, Determining an identifier associated with the electronic device comprises generating an identifier for the electronic device.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein, The method further comprises: obtaining information about a second electronic device; determining an identifier associated with the second electronic device; identifying a model or hardware configuration of the second electronic device based on the information about the second electronic device; determining a price of the second electronic device based in part on the information about the second electronic device and the identified model or hardware configuration of the second electronic device; presenting the price of the second electronic device to a user of the electronic device; and storing the identifier associated with the second electronic device and the price of the second electronic device.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein, Determining a price of the electronic device comprises automatically determining a price or price range of the electronic device based only on the information.

8. The method of claim 1, wherein, Determining a price of the electronic device comprises: receiving a data structure containing device pricing data; determining whether the data structure contains enough pricing data that can be applied to the electronic device; if the data structure contains enough pricing data that can be applied to the electronic device, obtaining pricing data from the data structure that can be applied to the electronic device; if the data structure does not contain enough pricing data that can be applied to the electronic device: transmitting at least a portion of the information or the identified model or hardware configuration to a remote server; and in response to the transmission, receiving a price of the electronic device from the remote server.

9. The method of claim 1, wherein, Storing the identifier associated with the electronic device and the price comprises sending the identifier to a remote server.

10. The method of claim 1, wherein, Storing the identifier associated with the electronic device and the price comprises sending a user identifier to the service terminal.

11. The method of claim 1, wherein, Storing the identifier associated with the electronic device and the price comprises sending information about the electronic device to a remote server or the service terminal such that the remote server or the service terminal can verify the price by determining the price based on the information.

12. The method of claim 1, further comprising: detecting a location of the electronic device; determining a location of the service terminal; determining whether the electronic device is within a threshold distance of the service terminal; and if the electronic device is near the service terminal, notifying a user of the electronic device that the service terminal is nearby. ​ 13. The method of claim 1, further comprising: displaying a message on a screen of the electronic device, the message including an offer for the user to submit the electronic device for processing at the service terminal.

14. The method of claim 1, wherein, determining that a price of the electronic device occurs at a first time, the method further comprising: receiving data indicating that a value of the electronic device has changed, such that the user no longer receives the price of the electronic device at the service terminal; and displaying information at the electronic device, the information notifying the user that the value of the electronic device has changed.

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