At just 21, Yug Bhatia founded Control Z, a smartphone refurbishing startup that has now grown into a ₹25 crore ($3 million) turnover company, redefining how used devices are renewed and resold in India.
Established in 2020, Control Z specializes in component-level renewal of old smartphones, repairing devices by restoring original parts such as batteries, displays, cameras, and speakers. The company’s unique approach focuses on repairing existing components rather than replacing them, ensuring cost-effective sustainability while improving device performance.
“We aim to give a second life to smartphones while ensuring quality and affordability,” said Bhatia, who serves as the CEO of Control Z. The company has so far refurbished over 60,000 smartphones, including high-end models from Apple and OnePlus.
Once repaired, the devices are resold at up to 60% less than the cost of new models, catering to a rapidly growing demand for affordable premium smartphones in India. The company also conducts rigorous diagnostic tests to identify and address any performance-related issues.
Control Z’s business model sits at the intersection of sustainability and technology, targeting environmentally conscious consumers while addressing India’s rising e-waste challenge.
With a current turnover of ₹25 crore, Control Z has set an ambitious target to reach ₹100 crore in the coming years. Bhatia’s entrepreneurial journey is seen as an inspiration for young founders in India’s startup ecosystem, where early innovation and impact-driven business models are gaining momentum.
As India’s refurbished electronics market expands, Bhatia’s Control Z is poised to become a key player in promoting circular economy practices in the consumer tech sector.
