Apple has introduced a leasing initiative designed to make premium hardware like iPhones, Macs, and iPads more accessible as consumer electronics prices climb and upgrade cycles lengthen. The service is operated alongside payment provider Klarna and becomes available this Tuesday across Apple’s physical retail locations, online store, and dedicated app in the United States.
The agreement offers 12 or 24-month terms for iPhones and Apple Watches, while iPads and Macs are available under 24- or 36-month contracts. Entry-level items such as the iPhone 16, base iPads, and the Apple Watch SE are excluded from this offer. This new service succeeds the previous iPhone Upgrade Programme, providing greater flexibility and lower monthly starting costs, with some iPhone plans beginning at $17.99 per month.
Industry experts suggest this strategy shifts the perception of Apple hardware toward a subscription model to counter the trend of consumers holding onto devices for longer periods, which currently averages about 22 months in the U.S. As component costs rise, including recent price hikes for Macs and iPads attributed to global memory shortages, analysts predict future flagship devices could reach the $1,500 price point. By launching this program shortly before the expected September reveal of the iPhone 18 series—potentially featuring a foldable model—Apple aims to sustain consumer loyalty and upgrade frequency despite economic pressures.
