From Waste to Worth: What's Next for Connected Devices

07/23/24 • 30 min

Consumer demand for sustainable products is at an all-time high, with 77% favoring eco-friendly options. In this episode, host Allyson Mitchell welcomes guest Tony Altmann, Leader of Circular Innovation at Apkudo. Allyson and Tony explore the critical role of circularity in the connected device industry and share how Apkudo delivers a sustainable solution for connected devices that benefits our customers and advances the entire industry.
In the episode, you'll learn how Apkudo's innovative AI-driven platform optimizes reverse logistics processes and, in turn, helps tech giants meet their ambitious sustainability targets. The conversation delves into the complexities of impact reporting, shedding light on the diverse challenges companies face in different industries while striving to measure and report their environmental footprints accurately.

The electronics and technology industry stands at a pivotal juncture, with significant advancements and challenges in achieving true device circularity. From evolving carbon emission calculations to avoiding massive CO2 emissions and e-waste, Allyson and Tony analyze the environmental impacts and hurdles that lie ahead. Tony also addresses the persistent barriers, such as linear device supply chains and reverse logistics challenges, emphasizing the importance of technology, automation, and AI in driving circular transformation. Tune in to learn about Apkudo's transformative solutions and approach that makes circularity possible for businesses and consumers alike.
In this episode:

Sustainability vs. circularity: what's the difference?
Linear vs. circular economy
The hierarchy of the circular economy
Global focus on refurbished devices, ESG goals, UN initiatives
The CPO effect (Certified Pre-Owned), Apple’s refurbished program
8 ways the circular economy outperforms linear business models
Unique tech, AI, and data driving the industry
Apkudo's 2023 Impact Report
Industry challenges going forward

Resources:

Sustainability vs. circularity: what's the difference?
Linear vs. circular economy
The hierarchy of the circular economy
Global focus on refurbished devices, ESG goals, UN initiatives
The CPO effect (Certified Pre-Owned), Apple’s refurbished program
8 ways the circular economy outperforms linear business models
Unique tech, AI, and data driving the industry
Apkudo's 2023 Impact Report
Industry challenges going forward

Resources:

Previous Episode

Data Matters: Unleashing the Power Behind AI, Automation, and Robotics

Allyson Mitchell and Chad Gottesman, President of Apkudo, explore how effectively leveraging data in the connected device supply chain can help you gain a data advantage and propel your business forward.
Chad and Allyson discuss a case study demonstrating how machine learning and predictive modeling can drastically reduce device theft, translating into substantial annual savings. The conversation delves into integrating fragmented internal data with external market insights to optimize device lifecycle management, sustainability, and operational efficiency. In this episode, you’ll learn about the importance of trust in the secondary market, the role of consistent cosmetic grading facilitated by AI, and the need for robust data strategies. You'll also hear practical advice from Chad Gottesman on how assessing and improving data capabilities, ensuring data security, and breaking down data silos underscores the potential of advanced analytics to drive growth and innovation in the connected device industry.
In this episode:

The rise of data in the connected device industry and AI
Case study on reverse logistics and loss prevention, and the importance of data-driven decision-making in the connected device supply chain
Leveraging internal and external data for sustainability and efficiency
Four stages of Apkudo's data maturity model
Unleashing the power of AI for data and cosmetic grading
Robotics and AI deliver consistent grading and high-quality data, resulting in better trust in the secondary market
Connected device supply chain data management includes understanding sources, combining data, securing it, and intercompany sharing
Frequently asked questions answered

Resources:

Next Episode

New Product Introduction: Precision, Preparation, and Predictive Data

Grant Cushny, Senior Director of Technical Delivery Management at Apkudo, takes us through his remarkable journey across continents and industries.
In this episode:

0:00 Introduction and background Grant Cushny

1:09 Grant Cushny on the Connected Device Ecosystem

4:41 Significance of Q4 and Industry Impact of New Device Launches

10:36 Collaboration and Role of Returns Processors in Launches

17:10 Operating System Updates and Deviation Monitoring

23:38 Proactive Approaches and Calibration for New Devices

29:03 Key Takeaways and Common Oversights in Device Launches

32:35 The Role of Automation in Quality Assurance

37:23 Closing Remarks and Looking Ahead Subscribe, like, and send us your comments and ideas for future episodes!
Resources:
Apkudo Website