Recycling machine lets you drop in old mobiles and tablets, then pays you cash on the spot

The EcoATM machine is a cupboard-sized, fully automated recycler that lets users drop off old mobiles in its metal try - then pays for them in cash.

It works with mobile phones, tablets (Galaxy Tab, iPad), Kindles, MP3 players etc.

Currently in California, and is rolling out across the USA soon.

How it works:
- put gadget in tray
- machine takes photo of gadget with built-in camera
- matches photo taken with a database of 4,000 different gadgets.
- offers cable to plug in your gadget
- you plug it in
- machine checks if it's still in working order electronically [EcoATM promises it will not steal any data].
- machine gives a quote on the spot, based on what a network of hundreds of electronics-recycling companies are willing to pay for it.
- if you accept, it hands out cash.