GameStop Accepting iOS Trade-Ins, Plans Branded Android Tablet

Major game retailer GameStop revealed today that it is now accepting iPods, iPhones and iPads as trade-ins for store credit. Any of these Apple devices can be traded in at any GameStop store in the U.S., and the credit can be put towards games, hardware, DLC and more. In an official statement, GameStop noted that the value of trade-ins of these devices is "significantly higher" than typical trade-ins. "By trading in iOS devices, GameStop customers have yet another source of funds to put toward the purchase of new and pre-owned games, DLC, digital PC games and more," explained GameStop president Tony Bartel. "This is especially significant with the great title line-up slated for this fall." The company noted that devices traded in must be in working condition, and free from "cosmetic defects." The company also revealed today that it is set to launch its own brand of Android gaming tablet, which will be classed as a "GameStop certified gaming platform." As reported by GI.biz [registration required], the scheme is due to hit stores next year, and will simply be an existing tablet with certain games preloaded onto it -- although the specific model has not yet been announced. This is the latest move by GameStop to keep up with the constantly changing games industry. Earlier this year, the company revealed its new digital strategy, and began trialling trade-ins of smartphone devices as part of a pilot scheme.