Apple has introduced the ‘Apple Upgrade’ program in the United States, offering customers the option to lease a variety of Apple devices, including iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple Watches. This initiative, in partnership with financing company Klarna, provides flexible leasing terms and the opportunity to upgrade devices at the end of the lease period.
Program Details and Pricing
The ‘Apple Upgrade’ program allows customers to lease devices with monthly payments, with the option to return the device at the end of the lease term and upgrade to a newer model. Alternatively, customers can choose to keep the device by paying a fee through the Klarna app. The program offers 24-month lease terms for iPhones and Apple Watches, and 36-month terms for iPads and Macs.
Starting monthly payments for various devices are as follows:
- iPhone 17e: $17.99/month for 24 months
- iPhone 17: $22.99/month for 24 months
- iPhone Air: $28.99/month for 24 months
- iPhone 17 Pro: $31.99/month for 24 months
- iPad mini: $11.99/month for 36 months
- iPad Air: $15.99/month for 36 months
- iPad Pro: $24.99/month for 36 months
- MacBook Air: $24.99/month for 36 months
- iMac: $28.99/month for 36 months
- MacBook Pro: $38.99/month for 36 months
- Mac Studio: $48.99/month for 36 months
- Apple Watch Series 11: $11.99/month for 24 months
- Apple Watch Ultra 3: $24.99/month for 24 months
- Apple Watch Hermès Series 11: $40.78/month for 24 months
- Apple Watch Hermès Ultra 3: $47.03/month for 24 months
It’s important to note that certain lower-priced devices, such as the Apple Watch SE, entry-level iPad, iPhone 16, and MacBook Neo, are not eligible for this program.
Transition from Previous Programs
With the launch of ‘Apple Upgrade,’ Apple has ceased accepting new sign-ups for the previous iPhone Upgrade Program. Existing participants in the iPhone Upgrade Program can continue their current plans for the time being. Unlike the previous program, ‘Apple Upgrade’ does not include AppleCare+ coverage in the monthly payments.
By introducing this leasing model, Apple aims to provide customers with more affordable monthly payment options and greater flexibility in upgrading to the latest devices. This approach reflects a broader industry trend towards subscription-based access to technology, allowing consumers to stay current with advancements without the financial burden of outright purchases.
