In a move that’s stirring up the e-commerce world, Amazon has started to ditch the terms “refurbished,” “used,” and “renewed” for its pre-owned tech offerings, opting instead to rebrand some of them as “Like New.” The change, effective immediately across its U.S. platform, applies to select products, including its Echo Smart Speakers, Tablets, and even smart TVs. devices that were previously sold under the Amazon Renewed program. The retail giant says the shift aims to simplify shopping and boost buyer confidence in products that aren’t straight-from-the-factory fresh—but not everyone’s sold on the new label.
What is most noticiable is that these like new products do nto come with Amazon Renewed Guarantee that offereda 90-day return window (or one year for premium items like automotive parts), ensuring buyers can return items that don’t meet expectations.
Exact details on what qualifies as Like New vs used and refurbished has not been announced.
A like new Fire HD 10 tablet will have customers $30 over buying it new.
This rebranding of refurbished products as “Like New” arrives at a time when many Americans are tightening their belts amid persistent economic pressures, including inflation and rising living costs, driving a surge in demand for cheaper alternatives to brand-new goods. With household budgets stretched thin, a “Like New” product—whether it’s a discounted iPhone, a gently used Kindle, or a returned smart speaker—could prove an enticing option for cost-conscious consumers eager to save a few bucks without sacrificing quality. As wages lag behind price hikes—U.S. median household income rose just 4% from 2022 to 2024, per Census data, while consumer prices climbed 7%—the appeal of stretching dollars further is undeniable. For families juggling bills or young adults furnishing first apartments, “Like New” could bridge the gap between necessity and affordability, especially with Amazon’s guarantee easing fears of buying pre-owned. It’s a calculated move that not only aligns with shoppers’ wallets but also positions Amazon to capture a growing market of bargain hunters willing to trade factory-sealed boxes for significant savings—provided the quality holds up as promised.
Cord Cutters News has reached out to Amazon for comment nad will update our story as we learn more.
Please follow us on Facebook and X for more news, tips, and reviews. Need cord cutting tech support? Join our Cord Cutting Tech Support Facebook Group for help. You can find Luke on X HERE.