Exchange electronic waste for internet data: Here is how
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Unused electronic waste is often kept at home because people are unsure where to dispose of it. Now, small electronic devices such as old mobile phones, chargers, cables, earphones, and power banks can be deposited through the ByeByeBox programme and exchanged for bonus internet data.
The programme is presented by XLSmart in collaboration with Remind, the Metallurgy Student Association of the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB), ITB, GSMA, and Bappenas. For the initial phase, ByeByeBox will be available within the ITB campus from 14 to 28 September 2026.
What is ByeByeBox?
ByeByeBox is an electronic waste (e-waste) collection machine that utilises a reverse vending machine concept. The submitted electronic devices are scanned and validated using cameras and artificial intelligence technology, then automatically weighed and recorded in the Remind system.
The programme provides incentives in the form of internet data to XL, AXIS, and Smartfren customers based on the weight of the electronic waste collected.
In its initial stage, the programme targets the collection of approximately 600 kilograms of electronic waste. The collected waste will then undergo material recovery processes so that parts that still hold value can be reintegrated into the circular economy cycle.
Members of the public can bring a variety of small, unused electronic devices, including:
Old mobile phones
Chargers
Cables
Earphones
Power banks
Other small electronic devices accepted by the machine.
The types of devices accepted follow the specific regulations of the ByeByeBox machines available at the programme locations.
Amount of data received
The bonus data is determined by the weight of the electronic waste inserted into the ByeByeBox:
E-waste weighing under 1 kilogram receives a 500 MB bonus.
For weights between 1 and 2 kilograms, users receive 1 GB.
E-waste weighing more than 2 kilograms receives 1.5 GB.
These bonuses are main data packages and are valid for one day. The programme is intended for XL, AXIS, and Smartfren users.
Those wishing to participate in the programme can follow several steps:
Prepare electronic waste: Bring small, unused electronic devices such as old phones, chargers, cables, earphones, or power banks to the ByeByeBox location.
Visit the ByeByeBox machine: In the initial phase, machines are available at the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB) area. The activation period runs from 14 to 28 September 2026.
Enter data or scan a code: Users can enter the required data or scan a code if they are already using the Remind Go application.
Photograph the electronic items: Users are required to take a photo with the electronic devices being submitted as part of the verification process.
Insert the device: Place the device into the ByeByeBox. The machine then uses cameras and AI technology to perform validation before weighing and recording the e-waste in the system.
Redeem the data: Once the process is complete, users can redeem their bonus data through the mechanism provided at the location. Redemption information is also sent via email according to the programme’s terms.
What if you are not an XL, AXIS, or Smartfren user?
While the data bonus programme is aimed at XL, AXIS, and Smartfren users, participants who do not use these three services may have the opportunity to obtain an eSIM as part of the programme, subject to availability. Therefore, participants should check the latest terms applicable at the location before proceeding with an exchange.
Electronic waste is not the same as ordinary household waste. Electronic devices contain various materials that require specialised handling to be processed responsibly. Through ByeByeBox, unused devices are collected and recorded before being processed for material recovery. Materials that still possess value can be returned to the utilisation cycle, thereby supporting circular economy principles.
The programme also combines waste management with digital incentives. The public not only has a place to surrender unused electronic devices but also receives bonus data based on the weight of the e-waste collected.
The programme runs until 28 September 2026. For the initial stage, ByeByeBox can be utilised within the ITB environment from 14 to 28 September 2026. The programme is a collaboration between XLSmart, Remind, the ITB Metallurgy Student Association, ITB, GSMA, and Bappenas. Consequently, those wishing to exchange electronic waste for internet data should note the activation period and location. The amount of bonus obtained depends on the weight of the e-waste, ranging from 500 MB to a maximum of 1.5 GB during this initial phase.