# iOS 27 Code Hints Apple May Restrict Leased iPhones Over Missed Payments Beta code reveals potential 'Restricted Mode' for leased devices with payment issues. - **Source:** [Slashdot](https://brifing.si/source/0f34d58e-1ccd-45a6-ab82-2de4065dc7ad) - **Published:** 2026-07-22 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/63663b1f-1274-414c-88a0-a4d2c087f1db ## New System for Leased Devices Code discovered in iOS 27 beta suggests Apple is preparing an 'Apple Upgrade' leasing program. The system could restrict access to devices when payments are missed. The 'App Managed Features' mechanism allows financing provider apps to continuously monitor device status and enforce restrictions when necessary. ## How Restricted Mode Works When payments are overdue, iPhones enter 'Restricted Mode,' blocking access to most apps while keeping essential functions like Health, Phone, and Wallet operational. Apps capable of sending critical alerts may also remain accessible. Notably, subscription billing continues even if app access is restricted. ## Whitelisted Apps in Restricted Mode The iOS 27 beta includes a fixed allowlist for Restricted Mode, containing core apps like Accessibility Reader, App Store, Health, Magnifier, Phone, Clock, Settings, Wallet, and Passwords. Apps that send critical alerts (Messages, Home, medication reminders) may also remain functional. The financing provider has some control over exceptions. ## Flexible Payment Enforcement The system doesn't automatically trigger restrictions after a fixed number of missed payments. Instead, the financing provider's app determines when to lock the device based on its own policies. This flexibility allows different financial institutions to implement their own terms while Apple provides the management framework. ## Introducing Partner Finance Lock The new 'Partner Finance Lock' activation lock prevents users from erasing, reselling, or dismantling restricted devices. This security measure protects financiers' investments by ensuring users can't bypass restrictions without resolving payment issues. It adds an extra layer of security to the leasing model. ## Implications for Consumers and Finance Sector Apple's move could popularize device leasing models among broader audiences, but payment tracking and device restrictions may spark consumer rights debates. For financial institutions, it offers a more secure payment enforcement mechanism that could expand leasing programs while minimizing risks associated with defaulters. ## Sources covering this story - https://apple.slashdot.org/story/26/07/22/2050240/ios-27-code-suggests-apple-could-restrict-leased-devices-after-missed-payments?utm_source=rss1.0mainlinkanon&utm_medium=feed — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._