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Apple Upgrade Program Will Let You Lease an iPhone Without Sticker Shock
CNET • • technology
Key Points:
- Apple has launched the Apple Upgrade program in the US, allowing customers to lease iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple Watches directly from the company with monthly payments starting at $18 for iPhones and $12 for Apple Watches.
- Leasing options vary by device, with 12- and 24-month terms for iPhones and Apple Watches, and longer 24- or 36-month terms for iPads and Macs; customers can reduce monthly costs by trading in existing devices.
- The program arrives amid recent Apple price increases driven by an industry-wide memory shortage, making leasing an attractive alternative for consumers facing higher upfront costs and economic pressures.
- Analysts view the leasing program as a strategic move to maintain sales by offering predictable monthly payments instead of large one-time expenses, especially as Apple’s ability to raise prices further is limited.
- Customers can sign up easily online or in-store with a soft credit check by Klarna, and at lease end, they can return, purchase, or upgrade their device.
