Basatne MENA, the regional branch of global circular economy leader Basatne, has partnered with Likewize, a worldwide provider of device lifecycle services, to introduce ‘Upgrade & Protect’ — an innovative subscription smartphone programme offering flexible, monthly plans that allow users to upgrade, swap, or protect their devices at any time.
With over 50 million active devices and typical smartphone replacement cycles of 12–18 months, the programme aims to provide consumers greater convenience and value while unlocking recurring revenue streams for telecom operators.
Mahmoud Abusway, CCO of Basatne MENA, highlighted the partnership’s significance: “By embedding circular economy principles into the telco model, ‘Upgrade & Protect’ delivers a flexible, sustainable solution that reduces waste, maximizes asset value, and transforms the device lifecycle for both consumers and operators.”
The launch aligns with GCC governments’ net-zero ambitions and green transformation efforts, including the UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 Strategy and the GSMA’s Circular Economy for Mobile Devices initiative, fostering a tech-enabled regenerative consumption model.
The platform integrates Basatne’s regional infrastructure with Cartlow’s re-commerce and trade-in technology, Ardroid’s AI-powered reverse logistics, and Likewize’s telco operational expertise, creating a comprehensive ecosystem for device collection, grading, refurbishment, resale, and recycling.
Likewize provides telcos with a turnkey, risk-free solution designed to deliver measurable financial and environmental returns. The scalable model supports operators in achieving both business growth and ESG performance goals.
