- 18
- Episodes
- 2024
- First episode
About Apkudo Podcast
Brought to you by the Apkudo team
- Publisher
- Apkudo
- Category
- business · technology
- Language
- en
- Explicit
- No
- First episode
- 5 Jun 2024
- Latest episode
- 6 Feb 2026
Latest episodes
18 episodes in the feed.
6 Feb 2026
From Wild West to World Standard: The Evolution of CTIA Grading (Flavio Rossi)
Could a "Carfax for phones" eliminate billions in waste from the device supply chain? Flavio Rossi, Apkudo advisor and wireless industry veteran with experience at T-Mobile, Asurion, and as co-founder of Rexy Resale, discusses the critical work of the CTIA Reverse Logistics and Service Quality Group. The challenge? Multiple grading languages create confusion and erode trust in device trading. "You could have company A describe their device as a grade A, while company B would describe that same device as a grade B," Rossi explains. With major players like Apple, Samsung, and Verizon collaborating, the group has released five revisions since 2019. Rossi reveals humans are only 50% accurate at grading—can automation and standards like Device Passport finally create the "Carfax for phones" that the industry desperately needs? Flavio Rossi is an advisor to Apkudo and a seasoned wireless industry veteran with decades of experience spanning network infrastructure, carriers, and reverse logistics. His career includes leadership roles at Alltel, Verizon, Asurion, and a long tenure at T-Mobile, where he was first introduced to Apkudo in 2014 during the MetroPCS acquisition. In 2019, Rossi partnered with Apkudo to co-found Rexy Resale, which has grown to operate three facilities serving major carriers and OEMs across the US. He is an active member of the CTIA Reverse Logistics and Service Quality Group, working to standardize device grading across the industry. In this episode: (00:00) Introduction of Flavio Rossi and his wireless industry journey (02:31) CTIA grading standards and the reverse logistics working group (05:31) Evolution from revision one to five addressing device innovation (10:08) Automation removes subjectivity, humans only fifty percent accurate (12:40) Cost savings through trust, eliminating redundant grading and waste (15:53) US standards influence global markets and device passport initiative Send us your comments, ideas for future shows, and feedback. Subscribe to catch future episodes, and share this episode with someone who might be interested! Resources: Flavio Rossi LinkedIn Rexi Resale Apkudo Device Passport Apkudo LinkedIn Apkudo Second Sense Podcast
8 Jan 2026
No Ports, No Problem: How CypherBlk Unlocked the Wearable Resale Market
Join Apkudo’s Allyson Mitchell (VP of Sustainability) as she welcomes Andrew Kroeger, Co-Founder of CypherBlk. Andrew reveals how his company solved what seemed impossible: testing and grading Apple Watches without a physical port. When Apple removed diagnostic ports from the Series 7, reverse logistics companies faced a crisis. Manual processes destroyed margins. Kroeger's background in data centers and cybersecurity led him to recognize the larger sustainability implications—60 million metric tons of e-waste annually. "We have to do such a better job partnering to keep up," he explains. How did CypherBlk crack the code? What role does Apkudo's platform play in scaling this innovation across the industry? Andrew Kroeger is Co-Founder of CypherBlk, a company specializing in portless device diagnostics and data sanitization for smartwatches and wearables. With over 25 years in technology, Andrew previously led teams at CDW and worked extensively in data centers and cybersecurity before entering the reverse logistics space eight years ago at Blancco. His work focuses on solving critical gaps in device lifecycle management while addressing the environmental and social impacts of e-waste. Through CypherBlk's partnership with Apkudo's ecosystem, Andrew is helping scale innovative solutions that enable accurate testing, grading, and data erasure for devices once considered impossible to process efficiently. In this episode: (00:00) Andrew Kroeger and CypherBlk ecosystem partnership (00:55) From VAR sales to sustainability in reverse logistics (10:42) Cracking the Apple Watch Series 7 portless diagnostics challenge (22:09) Scaling smartwatch solutions through Apkudo's platform integration (25:48) Collaborative future of device lifecycle and circular economy (28:43) Industry mindset shift from competition to cooperation Send us your comments, ideas for future shows, and feedback. Subscribe to catch future episodes, and share this episode with someone who might be interested! Resources: Andrew Kroeger LinkedIn Apkudo LinkedIn Apkudo Second Sense Podcast
2 Dec 2025
Unlocking the Network Effect with the Powered by Apkudo Ecosystem
What happens when two specialized companies share data to create a complete technology ecosystem? Join Apkudo’s Allyson Mitchell (VP of Sustainability) as she welcomes Josh Beasley. Josh serves as partner and president of both Quick Ship Brands and Early Upgrade, two companies operating within the Powered by Apkudo ecosystem. With over 20 years of combined company experience, Quick Ship specializes in high-value device remarketing while Early Upgrade processes 2 million pieces of electronic equipment monthly for end-of-life recycling. Josh explains how these complementary businesses create a complete technology lifecycle solution without compromising expertise at any stage. "Finding one company that can manage them all and manage them all well, it doesn't exist," he notes. The conversation explores how standardized data sharing through the Apkudo ecosystem enables better decision-making across the supply chain. Can collaboration replace the inefficiencies of siloed operations? Josh shares his vision for modernizing industry standards to match the pace of technological advancement. In this episode: (00:00) Josh Beasley and his dual company roles (04:34) Josh's background from marketing internship to tech industry leadership (09:31) The powered by Apkudo ecosystem and benefits of standardized data (19:57) Supply chain complexity and managing devices across multiple partners (27:56) Industry standards evolution and sustainability in device lifecycle management (34:30) Closing thoughts on redefining end of life standards Send us your comments, ideas for future shows, and feedback. Subscribe to catch future episodes, and share this episode with someone who might be interested! Resources: Early Upgrade Quick Ship Brands Apkudo LinkedIn Apkudo Second Sense Podcast
2 Sept 2025
The Art and Science of Automation Implementation
How do you successfully implement automation solutions across 30+ countries with different regulations, logistics challenges, and cultural expectations? Join Apkudo’s Allyson Mitchell (VP of Sustainability) as she welcomes Charles Stewardson, Head of EMEA Implementation at Apkudo, who brings three decades of tech services experience to discuss the complexities of automation implementation. With roles spanning HP, Ingram Micro, and DHL, Charles offers unique insights into transforming business operations through scalable automation. "The foundation of successful automation is for everybody to understand how it's gonna change existing processes," he explains. Charles reveals how Apkudo's comprehensive playbook covers everything from logistics planning to local team recruitment. What makes the difference between success and failure? The collaborative mindset from day one. How do you handle equipment that won't fit in elevators or power requirements that fall short? Charles shares real-world solutions that turn potential disasters into learning opportunities for future implementations. In this episode: (00:00) Introduction of guest Charles Stewardson and his EMEA role (01:41) Charles's background in tech services over thirty years (03:07) Understanding the broad scope of automation implementation processes (08:27) Critical preparation steps before equipment mobilization begins (11:06) Real world stories from successful and challenging implementations (14:38) Final thoughts on collaborative partnerships in automation Send us your comments, ideas for future shows, and feedback. Subscribe to catch future episodes, and share this episode with someone who might be interested! Resources: Apkudo LinkedIn Apkudo Second Sense Podcast
21 Aug 2025
Behind the Scenes: Using Real-Time Data to Power Repair Vendor Management
How is real-time data keeping more phones out of landfills and in customers' hands? Join Apkudo’s Allyson Mitchell (VP of Sustainability) as she welcomes John Hebert, Executive Vice President for Technical Program Management, and Stephen Mattson, Director of Support and Training at Apkudo. The team reveals the complex world of device repair vendor management. With over 20 years in telecommunications and 18 years in mobile devices respectively, they explain how carriers manage the intricate network of OEMs, repair centers, and return facilities. "We were managing significant inventory levels through spreadsheets by email," Hebert explains, highlighting the manual chaos that once dominated the industry. Their discussion covers how real-time automation has transformed vendor relationships, reduced repair turnaround times, and improved device circularity. How does better data visibility change everything from customer satisfaction to environmental impact? In this episode: (00:00) Introduction of guests John Hebert and Stephen Mattson (00:42) Background experiences in telecommunications and mobile device industry (01:58) Device journey from first life to second life (05:13) Challenges facing vendor managers in repair processes (13:03) How automation improves vendor manager efficiency (18:25) Future developments in partner portal communication Send us your comments, ideas for future shows, and feedback. Subscribe to catch future episodes, and share this episode with someone who might be interested! Resources: Apkudo LinkedIn Apkudo Second Sense Podcast
7 Aug 2025
How a Tech Giant Optimized Connected Device Recovery Globally
How can data standardization drive both operational efficiency and environmental benefits? Join Apkudo’s Allyson Mitchell (VP of Sustainability) as she welcomes Tim Esteb (Director of Customer Experience) back to the podcast to explore how one global tech enterprise revolutionized its IT asset recovery process. From warehouses filled with unused devices to a streamlined, automated system for managing returns, this social media and hardware company faced massive challenges across multiple continents. "Prior to the Apkudo platform, this all lived within email inboxes," Tim explains. Through data standardization and API integrations, they processed 40,000 devices while achieving remarkable outcomes. The focus on freight logistics, reusable packaging, and sustainability led to warehouse downsizing and significant environmental benefits. How can automated device recovery drive both operational efficiency and cost savings for your organization? In this episode: (00:00) Introduction of guest Tim Esteb, discussion of recent platform updates (01:30) Global tech customer overview and device footprint challenges (02:19) Pre-Apkudo situation with manual warehouse processes and data issues (03:22) Priority one: standardizing data and automating device recovery processes (07:02) Customer experience improvements through API integration and automation (11:07) Sustainability benefits including warehouse downsizing and reusable shipping materials Send us your comments, ideas for future shows, and feedback. Subscribe to catch future episodes, and share this episode with someone who might be interested! Resources: Apkudo LinkedIn Apkudo Second Sense Podcast
10 Jul 2025
Behind the Mic: Apkudo podcast becomes Second Sense
What happens when second-life tech becomes second nature for businesses and consumers? Join Apkudo’s Allyson Mitchell (VP of Sustainability) as she introduces Second Sense, the newly rebranded podcast from Apkudo that dives deep into the complex world of mobile device supply chains and sustainable technology solutions. Allyson introduces this fresh take on device lifecycle management, exploring the intricate network behind connected devices—from logistics and diagnostics to testing, grading, and resale. The podcast tackles three fundamental questions: How does data shape supply chain decisions? What does this mean for sustainability goals? And how are experiences changing for companies, customers, and the planet? With expert insights from across the industry, Second Sense provides real stories about the future of sustainable technology. In this episode: (00:00) Introducing the newly renamed Second Sense podcast, exploring mobile device supply chains and sustainable solutions for second-life technology (00:26) How Second Sense rethinks device lifecycle management through data-driven decisions and examines the complex network behind connected devices (01:19) Three Core Questions: data impact, sustainability goals, and changing experiences for companies and customers (01:57) Future Episodes Preview Send us your comments, ideas for future shows, and feedback. Subscribe to catch future episodes, and share this episode with someone who might be interested! Resources: Apkudo LinkedIn Apkudo Second Sense Podca
25 Apr 2025
Cleared for Takeback: Inside a Major Airline’s Device Recovery Mission
What if your sustainability initiative could simultaneously reduce costs, increase asset recovery, and support educational opportunities for underserved communities? Join Apkudo’s Allyson Mitchell (VP of Sustainability) as she speaks with Ben Jones, Executive Vice President of Enterprise Takeback, about a transformative device recovery program implemented for a major US airline. Ben shares how they helped the airline transition from manual spreadsheets and limited visibility to a comprehensive platform solution that achieved a remarkable 97% asset recovery rate across 110,000+ devices. You’ll hear the surprising details about how innovative approaches like employee purchase programs exceeded expectations with nearly 50% adoption among pilots, while also highlighting the significant environmental benefits of extending device lifecycles. Ben explains how the airline's global, constantly-moving workforce presented unique challenges that led to creative solutions now benefiting customers across industries. The discussion covers the evolution of electronic flight bags from 35-pound paper manuals to iPads, the implementation of a transparent commercial model, and exciting future developments including remote wipe capabilities and robotics automation. This episode offers valuable insights for IT and mobility professionals managing enterprise device fleets, particularly in hybrid or distributed workforce environments. In this episode: (00:00) Introduction and overview: Allyson Mitchell introduces special guest Ben Jones to discuss airline device recovery. (06:13) Commercial model transformation: Implementing a new consignment approach and recover platform to solve the airline's device tracking challenges. (09:02) Surprising adoption results: Pilot device buyback rates exceeded expectations, reaching nearly 50% versus the predicted 5%. (10:46) Measurable business impact: Impressive metrics include 97% recovery rate across 110,000 devices and $3 million in returned value. (14:50) Social impact initiatives: Donation program with Aerospace Center of Excellence helps underprivileged students pursue careers in aviation through device reuse. (19:08) Innovation roadmap: Exciting future developments including remote wipe capabilities, robotics automation, and further sustainability enhancements. Send us your comments, ideas for future shows, and feedback. Subscribe to catch future episodes, and share this episode with someone who might be interested! Resources: Ben Jones LinkedIn Apkudo LinkedIn Apkudo Apkudo Podcast
11 Apr 2025
Reshaping the Connected Device Economy
"There's a huge opportunity to reclaim scarce resources through urban mining of what's inside these phones, tablets, laptops. We have to move away from the linear consumption model - take, make, waste - that we've had for 250 years." - Tony Altmann, Head of Circular Innovation at Apkudo Join Apkudo’s Allyson Mitchell (VP of Sustainability) as she speaks with Tony Altmann, Head of Circular Innovation at Apkudo, about transforming the connected device industry through circular economy principles. Tony explains how Apkudo's platform helps customers across the supply chain—from OEMs and carriers to device processors and enterprises—recapture value while reducing environmental impact. With 82 million metric tons of e-waste projected by 2030 and five billion unused phones sitting in drawers worldwide, the conversation highlights the urgent need for improved recovery systems and the $8 billion in gold alone that could be reclaimed through proper urban mining. Tony shares insights from Apkudo's 2024 Impact Report, revealing how the company processed 16 million devices last year—preventing 6,100 tons of e-waste, avoiding 1.1 million tons of CO2 emissions, and reclaiming approximately $23 million worth of gold. The discussion explores how sustainability challenges including data availability, trust, and communication are being addressed through Apkudo's analytics platform. For businesses across climate, energy, and technology sectors, the episode offers valuable perspectives on how companies can align environmental goals with financial performance while creating competitive advantage through circular innovation. In this episode: (00:00) Introduction and Background: Tony Altmann shares his financial expertise in renewable energy, explaining how sustainability must make business sense for CFOs to drive real change. (04:30) E-Waste Challenges and Opportunities: Discussion of urban mining potential, recovering $8B in gold from unused devices, and the geopolitical importance of reclaiming rare earth minerals. (06:13) Industry Ecosystem Solutions: How carriers, OEMs, processors, and enterprises can collaborate to extend device lifecycles and improve circularity across the value chain. (13:18) Overcoming Sustainability Barriers: Tony outlines three key challenges—data availability, trust in metrics, and effective communication—that companies must address for progress. (26:49) Impact Results and Future Direction: Apkudo's 2024 report highlights processing 16M devices, preventing 6,100 tons of e-waste, and avoiding 1.1M tons of CO2 emissions. Send us your comments, ideas for future shows, and feedback. Subscribe to catch future episodes, and share this episode with someone who might be interested! Resources: Tony Altmann LinkedIn Apkudo LinkedIn Apkudo Apkudo Podcast
28 Mar 2025
Behind the Scenes: How Quality Managers Shape the Mobile Experience with Device Intelligence
How are leading companies transforming quality management from a cost center into a strategic advantage? Join Apkudo’s Allyson Mitchell (VP of Sustainability) as she welcomes Manoj Sabhnani, Chief Operating Officer at Apkudo. With over 25 years in the wireless industry, Manoj illuminates the critical role quality managers play in determining a device's fate between its first and second life. With experience spanning carriers, OEMs, and infrastructure development, he explains how quality management directly impacts customer satisfaction, return rates, and ultimately, profitability. Manoj emphasizes that while quality departments are often viewed as cost centers, their work translates to measurable ROI through reduced returns and logistics costs. Discover how quality managers navigate complex challenges including disconnected data systems, manual processes, and cross-stakeholder collaboration. Manoj details how Apkudo's Device Intelligence platform has revolutionized quality management through real-time dashboards, predictive analytics, and seamless collaboration features that save quality managers up to 20% of their time. The conversation highlights the sustainability implications of quality improvements and how reducing "bounce rates" for refurbished devices delivers millions in savings while decreasing environmental impact. This episode offers valuable insights for professionals across the connected device ecosystem seeking to optimize operations and lead in sustainable device management. In this episode: (00:00) Introduction and Background: Manoj Sabhnani brings over 25 years of wireless industry experience to Apkudo, working across carriers, OEMs, and infrastructure to understand quality management challenges from multiple perspectives. (05:03) Key Quality Processes and Challenges: Critical processes quality managers oversee including first article inspection, early warning processes, and device triage, while managing disconnected systems and manual data collection. (10:15) Daily Operations and Collaboration: Manoj details a typical day for quality managers, highlighting their work with multiple stakeholders, data management responsibilities, and the need to take timely action on quality insights. (15:35) Quality ROI and Business Impact: How quality teams demonstrate ROI through reduced returns, decreased logistics costs, and improved sustainability metrics, translating into millions in annual savings. (24:01) Technology Solutions and Future Innovations: Apkudo’s Device Intelligence platform integrates disparate systems with real-time dashboards and cross-stakeholder collaboration, plus upcoming innovations in predictive analytics and sustainability metrics. Send us your comments, ideas for future shows, and feedback. Subscribe to catch future episodes, and share this episode with someone who might be interested! Resources: Manoj Sabhnani LinkedIn Apkudo LinkedIn Apkudo Apkudo Podcast
10 Mar 2025
Simplifying Device Recovery: How a Fortune 100 Company Boosted Sustainability and Compliance
What simple technology integration nudges employees to return their old devices without disrupting their workflow, and how could it save your company thousands in lost assets? Join Apkudo’s Allyson Mitchell (VP of Sustainability) as she chats with Mariel Wilding (Sr. Customer Experience Manager) about how a Fortune 100 company enhanced its sustainability initiatives with Apkudo’s Reco software. Learn how they automated employee mobile device recovery and gained access to detailed device circularity insights for the first time. With seamless integration into Omnissa’s Workspace ONE® unified endpoint management platform, they also saw a boost in employee compliance. Discover how this customer simplified a once-complex process into a scalable, repeatable program for sustainable success. How does Apkudo's innovative UEM tagging system transform recovery rates? Mariel reveals that customizable restrictions encourage device returns without impeding productivity. She explains how the customer evolved from having scattered forgotten devices to implementing real-time fleet visibility. You’ll hear how collaborative problem-solving created features like IT drop-off tracking that now benefit all Apkudo customers. For mobility teams in hybrid environments, this case study shows how proper lifecycle management recovers assets, supports sustainability goals, and generates financial returns through secondary markets. In this episode: (00:00) Introduction and Background: Mariel Wilding shares her experience in customer-facing roles at a manageability services startup before joining Apkudo to support enterprise customers with asset recovery. (01:40) Fortune 100 Customer Profile: Mariel details the customer's 35,000 employees with 19,000 globally deployed iOS and Android devices, their security challenges with outdated devices, and how Apkudo's integration with Workspace ONE addressed their automation and visibility needs. (05:30) Product Innovation Implementation: Explores how the customer's automation requirements led to development of UEM tagging features and IT drop-off tracking capabilities, creating customizable solutions that nudge employees to return devices and improve recovery compliance. (10:30) Sustainability Impact and Expansion: Discusses how Apkudo transformed the customer from merely recycling devices to reselling and tracking sustainability metrics, with plans to expand the program beyond US mobile devices to laptops in Canada and UK operations. Send us your comments, ideas for future shows, and feedback. Subscribe to catch future episodes, and share this episode with someone who might be interested! Resources: Mariel Wilding LinkedIn Apkudo LinkedIn Apkudo Apkudo Podcast
20 Feb 2025
Cyculus Leads a New Era in Device Processing
Curious about why Europe lags behind the US in automated phone processing (15% vs 85%)? Hear how one company is bridging this technology gap. Fergal Donovan, CEO and co-founder of Cyculus, joins us to discuss revolutionizing phone recycling and refurbishment through automated processing. Drawing from his 25 years of experience in the mobile industry, including significant roles at Motorola, Brightpoint, and PCS Wireless, Donovan explains how Device Processing as a Service (DPaaS) is transforming the European market. You’ll hear how Cyculus is addressing a critical gap in Europe, where only 10-15% of pre-owned phones are processed using robotics, compared to 85% in the US. Operating from a sustainable, solar-powered facility, Cyculus combines AI-driven technology with precision robotics to provide consistent, high-quality device grading and testing services. For those interested in phone recycling and circular economy initiatives, this episode offers valuable insights into how automation is making device refurbishment more accessible, efficient, and environmentally friendly, particularly for smaller businesses that previously couldn't access such technology. In this episode: (00:00) Introduction and Background: Fergal shares his 25-year journey in the mobile industry, from working at Motorola during the Razr era through distribution roles at major companies, ultimately leading to his focus on sustainability and circularity at PCS Wireless. (02:25) DPaaS Origins: Explains how Europe's fragmented business landscape (600+ businesses across 28 countries) led to the development of Device Processing as a Service, aiming to provide widespread access to automation technology for processing pre-owned phones. (04:27) Partnership Benefits: Details why Cyculus chose Apkudo, highlighting the advantages of automated solutions including controlled testing environments, consistent grading, high-resolution imaging, and AI-powered assessment capabilities compared to manual processing. (12:15) Sustainability Impact: Discusses how Cyculus fits into the circular supply chain by improving device processing efficiency, reducing return rates, and increasing quality of pre-owned devices, while operating from a fully solar-powered facility with heat pump technology. (14:43) Certification Goals: Outlines Cyculus's pursuit of key industry certifications including ISO standards, Ecovadis, and potential B Corp certification, along with membership in industry bodies like Eurofast to improve right-to-repair initiatives. (16:15) Market Expansion Plans: Reviews strong customer interest in DPaaS from various sectors (insurance, operators, distributors, traders, resellers) and discusses how upcoming European regulations around CE branding and USB-C will impact the market. Resources: Fergal Donovan LinkedIn Apkudo LinkedIn Apkudo Apkudo Podcast
12 Nov 2024
Tech vs. Touch: The Evolution of Cosmetic Grading
How does balancing human judgment with robotic precision revolutionize the device grading process in the secondary market? In this episode, host Allyson Mitchell, VP of Sustainability at Apkudo, and Asa Gismervik, Apkudo’s Director Of Quality Assurance, discuss the challenges associated with cosmetic grading. The reality is that humans don't agree, which means humans and robots won't agree either. Apkudo is deploying a new alignment process to overcome the inherent limitations of subjective grading techniques to achieve greater accuracy. The conversation takes a deeper dive into this fascinating world of human-machine collaboration, exploring the pivotal role of blind assessments in ensuring unbiased evaluations. Asa shares his insights into the challenges of aligning human and machine interpretations and the dangers of overfitting algorithms to specific datasets. You’ll hear how large sample runs are crucial in fine-tuning algorithms to bridge the gap between manual and automated grading techniques. Ultimately, Apkudo seeks to establish a unified approach to cosmetic grading that harmonizes the efforts of humans, machines, and supply chain partners, paving the way for a more consistent and reliable secondary market for connected devices. In this episode: (00:00) Allyson and Asa discuss the dual aspects of device grading: functional and cosmetic states. Asa explains the impact of grading on resale value and customer satisfaction, highlighting the potential consequences of overgrading and undergrading. (09:00) The collaboration between human insight and robotic precision in cosmetic grading. The importance of blind assessments to ensure unbiased results, and the risk of overfitting algorithms and the need for large sample runs to refine these algorithms, with the aim of achieving a standardized approach to grading across the industry. (14:00) Tools and guidelines used by human graders and the precision capabilities of machines in assessing device conditions. There is a complementary nature of human judgment and machine accuracy - humans provide intent and context that machines cannot inherently discern. (16:30) Asa outlines the risk of overfitting algorithms to specific datasets, how large sample runs are used to refine grading algorithms. (19:30) Establishing a standardized cosmetic grading approach, human intent teaching robots in grading process. (0:23:00) Future of human-machine collaboration in device grading. Asa is excited about transitioning from customer relationships to partnerships, emphasizing collaborative efforts to improve grading processes. The industry-wide impact and the ongoing efforts to refine grading standards, ultimately aiming for greater alignment and efficiency between humans, machines, and supply chain partners. Resources: Apkudo LinkedIn ApkudoApkudo Podcast
7 Oct 2024
The Network Effect: A Customer Story of Transformation
In this episode, host Allyson Mitchell, VP of Sustainability at Apkudo, dives into a compelling customer story with guest Manoj Sabhnani, the COO of Apkudo. The conversation explores the transformation of connected devices, highlighting Apkudo's innovative automated device testing solutions that simulate real-world scenarios to preemptively address issues, thereby reducing costly returns and enhancing customer satisfaction. During their discussion, Allyson and Manoj share how solving one customer’s initial challenge sparked interest from other internal stakeholders, which, in turn, expanded into a multi-faceted partnership that transformed their entire connected device operations. Manoj emphasizes the importance of adapting to technological advancements, particularly the transition from LTE to 5G, and the rise of IoT in reshaping the industry. He underscores the significance of AI-powered analytics in revolutionizing operations and improving efficiency for carriers and third-party logistics providers. The episode concludes with a discussion on the evolving landscape of wireless technology and the growing importance of connected devices in everyday life, reflecting Manoj's forward-thinking views on the future of technology. In this episode: (00:00) COO Manoj Sabhnani and his 25-year career in the industry, how his role at Apkudo has evolved (04:26) How Apkudo has changed through the years, and a transformative customer collaboration with a US-based carrier, industry evolution, app-driven user experiences, challenges for carriers and OEMs, Apkudo's automated testing solution (10:22) Expanding the customer partnership to improve device testing, reduce returns, and build trust for ongoing collaboration (16:26) Transforming operations, cloud-based AI analytics transformed manual operations, providing real-time visibility, automation (19:58) Growth for carriers and third-party logistics providers, scaling and transforming solutions (26:25) Manoj emphasizes adaptability and proactive customer relationships for success. Resources: Apkudo LinkedIn Apkudo Apkudo Podcast
6 Sept 2024
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
23 Jul 2024
From Waste to Worth: What's Next for Connected Devices
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. Learn how Apkudo's innovative AI-driven platform is optimizing reverse logistics processes, helping tech giants like Apple and Dell meet their ambitious sustainability targets. The conversation also delves into the complexities of creating impact reports, shedding light on the diverse challenges companies face in different industries and regions while striving to measure and report their environmental footprints accurately. The electronics industry stands at a pivotal juncture, with significant advancements and challenges in achieving true circularity. From evolving carbon emission calculations to avoiding massive CO2 emissions and e-waste, we analyze the environmental impacts and hurdles that lie ahead. Tony also addresses the persistent barriers such as linear supply chains and reverse logistics challenges, emphasizing the transformative potential of technology, automation, and AI in driving the circular transformation. Hear about Apkudo's exciting future prospects that could make circularity the go-to choice for businesses and consumers alike. In this episode: Sustainability vs. circularity Linear vs. circular economy The hierarchy of the circular economy 50 million tons of e-waste goes into landfills each year<span data-ccp-props="{"335559738":0}
20 Jun 2024
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. You’ll hear 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. Practical advice on 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 devices industry. In this episode: The rise of data in the connected devices industry and AI mentions Case study on reverse logistics and loss prevention, and the importance of data-driven decision-making in the supply chain Leveraging internal and external data for sustainability and efficiency Four stages of maturity models Unleashing the power of AI for data, cosmetic grading <li data-leveltext="●" data-font="" data-listid="1" data-list-defn-props="{"335552541":1,&q
5 Jun 2024
A Winning Strategy - Employee Purchase Programs for Corporate-Owned Devices
What if your company could save money and promote sustainability while helping employees get the latest tech gadgets? Tim Esteb, Director of Customer Success at ApKudo, joins Apkudo’s VP of Sustainability Allyson Mitchell to unravel the untapped potential of employee purchase programs for connected devices. From their inception in 2017, these programs have transformed the management of remotely connected devices, gaining even more significance during the COVID-19 pandemic. We dive into the many perks for both workers and businesses, including affordable device access for employees and impressive reductions in device breakage and repair costs. We explore how these programs promote sustainability by extending device lifecycles, contributing to the circular economy. Tim elaborates on various fund distribution options, from reserving funds for future device purchases to directing them toward value-added resellers or even nonprofits. We also discuss how companies can customize these programs to meet the varied needs of their workforce, whether they're tech aficionados or tech novices. Learn about robust security measures, like Active Directory, that ensure safe and efficient multiple-device purchases. Tune in for an insightful episode on how to harness the full potential of employee purchase programs for your enterprise. Tim Esteb, a seasoned leader, specializes in overseeing device recovery initiatives. As Director of Customer Experience, he fosters strong partnerships with enterprise clients and allies, guaranteeing robust support for their recovery programs. With nine years in the mobility sector, Tim is well-versed in software integration and automation. His deep industry insight enables him to effectively translate customer needs into tangible product enhancements and process refinements. In this episode: Intro to the show and guest Tim Esteb Covid and the impact on devices Employee purchase programs - what are the benefits? Breakage and other issues are reduced or improved with web-based, employee-purchased devices Remote notifications, meeting employees “where they are” Cost savings, carbon reduction, reducing logistics strain Rolling out a program, data sources Advice for rolling out a program for your organization Frequently asked questions answered Subscribe, like, and send us your comments and ideas for future episodes! Apkudo’s Podcast is your weekly dose of industry insights focused on employee purchase programs for corporate-owned devices. Hosted by Apkudo’s VP of Sustainability Allyson MItchell, the show delves into the transformative potential of these programs, highlighting benefits like cost savings, sustainability, and enhanced security. With a focus on flexibility and customization, these programs are engineered to meet diverse workforce needs, making it a must-listen for enterprises seeking tech-savvy solutions with a focus on sustainability. Resources: Tim Esteb LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-esteb-917907202/) Allyson Mitchell LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/allysonpumphrey/) Email Allyson Mitchell (mailto:Allyson.Mitchell@apkudo.com)Apkudo (https://www.apkudo.com/) Apkudo Podcast (https://www.apkudo.com/podcasts) About Apkudo: Apkudo enables companies that s
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