In the US, 85% of pre-owned phones are processed using automation, while in Europe, that number is just 10-15%. But why does this gap exist, and how is Cyculus changing the landscape?
In a recent Apkudo podcast, our very own Fergal Donovan, CEO and co-founder of Cyculus, shares how Device Processing as a Service (DPaaS) is transforming the European mobile device market. With over 25 years of industry experience at companies like Motorola, Brightpoint, and PCS Wireless, Donovan explains how AI-driven automation and robotics are making device processing faster, more consistent, and more sustainable.
Unlike the US, Europe has a fragmented business landscape, with 600+ businesses across 28 countries handling pre-owned device processing. This fragmentation has made automation adoption slow, leaving many businesses relying on manual grading and refurbishment, which is:
Inconsistent – Human grading leads to errors and disputes.
Inefficient – Slower processing times increase costs.
Limited – Smaller businesses struggle to access advanced automation technology.
To bridge this gap, Cyculus introduced DPaaS—a scalable, automation-powered solution that removes the need for businesses to invest in costly robotics while delivering high-precision testing and grading.
To ensure the highest level of device grading accuracy, consistency, and efficiency, Cyculus partnered with Apkudo, leveraging their AI-powered processing technology, which offers:
Controlled testing environments for standardised device assessment.
High-resolution imaging & AI-driven grading for precise cosmetic inspections.
Automated functional testing to detect defects faster and more accurately than manual methods.
Scalability, allowing businesses to process large volumes without human error.
By eliminating subjectivity and inefficiency, Cyculus delivers industry-leading processing speed, accuracy, and resale readiness—bringing European businesses up to global standards.
Beyond efficiency, sustainability is a driving force behind Cyculus. Operating from a solar-powered facility, Cyculus integrates:
Energy-efficient heat pump technology for sustainable operations.
Circular supply chain improvements, reducing return rates & enhancing device quality.
Right-to-repair advocacy, supporting a greener, longer-lasting device ecosystem.
With upcoming European regulations enforcing stricter CE branding and USB-C adoption, sustainable automation will be critical for businesses wanting to stay ahead.
To further establish trust, transparency, and quality in device processing, Cyculus is working towards key industry certifications, including:
ISO Standards
Ecovadis Certification
B Corp Potential
Right-to-Repair Industry Memberships
With strong demand for DPaaS across sectors including insurance, operators, distributors, traders, and resellers, Cyculus is poised to reshape Europe’s secondary mobile market.
#Automation #DeviceProcessing #AI #CircularEconomy #Sustainability #TechInnovation