Apple Launches New Upgrade Program in the US
iPhones, Macs and iPads now available for lease with low monthly payments.
1New Leasing Program Announced
Apple announced 'Apple Upgrade', a new leasing program for US customers. Offered in collaboration with Klarna, the program covers iPhone, Apple Watch, Mac and iPad. Available through online store, Apple Store app and physical locations. Karen Rasmussen, Apple's VP of online stores, stated this program offers more flexible payment options. The initiative aims to make premium Apple products more accessible through affordable monthly installments.
2Leasing Options and Pricing
Apple Upgrade offers 12-24 month terms for iPhone/Apple Watch, 24-36 months for Mac/iPad. Monthly payments start at $17.99 for iPhone, $11.99 for Watch, $24.99 for Mac and $11.99 for iPad. Customers can reduce payments by trading in current devices via Apple Trade In. Apple Card users earn 3% Daily Cash back on lease payments. The program eliminates large upfront costs while providing upgrade flexibility.
3Simple Application Process
Apple and Klarna designed a streamlined application process. Customers can apply online/in-store within minutes with quick approval. Applications involve soft credit checks that don't affect credit scores. Post-approval, transactions proceed normally. In-store customers get immediate device access, while online orders offer delivery/pickup options. The process maintains Apple's signature seamless shopping experience across channels.
4Comprehensive Customer Support
All program participants receive free Personal Setup assistance. This service helps configure new devices and answer questions. Customers can also attend free Today at Apple sessions to master device features. At lease end, options include upgrading to newer models, purchasing the device, or returning it. The Klarna app provides payment tracking and lease management tools for complete transparency.
5Program Technical Details
Through the Klarna app, users monitor lease details, payment schedules and remaining balances. Adding AppleCare+ simplifies upgrades and device protection. With this launch, Apple discontinues iPhone Upgrade Program and iPhone Payments in the US. Current iPhone Upgrade members can transition to the new program when eligible, choosing between leasing, Apple Card installments or outright purchase.
6iPhone Models and Features
The program includes iPhone 17 series devices. iPhone 17e offers 256GB storage, MagSafe and advanced camera system. iPhone 17 features 120Hz ProMotion display, 48MP dual cameras and all-day battery. iPhone Air boasts the thinnest design with pro performance. iPhone 17 Pro/Max models deliver peak performance with A19 Pro chip and professional camera systems. Each model caters to different user needs and budgets.
7Apple Watch Leasing Options
Apple Watch Series 11 introduces comprehensive health monitoring, including hypertension alerts and sleep scoring. With 24-hour battery life and scratch-resistant display, it's designed for continuous wear. Apple Watch Ultra 3 targets adventurers with 42-hour battery, satellite connectivity and rugged design. Its low power mode extends usage to 72 hours. Both models integrate seamlessly with Apple's health ecosystem, providing valuable wellness insights.
8Mac and iPad Lease Details
Mac leasing spans 24-36 months, featuring M3 chip performance. New MacBooks deliver professional-grade power for creative workflows. iPads support advanced multitasking and Apple Pencil integration, ideal for professionals. All devices integrate perfectly with Apple's software ecosystem. Users enjoy full access to Apple services on leased devices, maintaining productivity across Apple's product lineup.
9Financial Flexibility Benefits
Apple Upgrade provides affordable access to premium technology through manageable monthly payments. This alternative financing model particularly benefits users wanting to try new devices without large upfront costs. Klarna's solutions accommodate various credit profiles, expanding program accessibility. Apple Card users gain additional cashback advantages. The program democratizes access to cutting-edge technology while maintaining Apple's premium positioning.
10Consumer Electronics Market Impact
Apple's move could popularize leasing models in consumer electronics, potentially prompting competitor responses. This approach increases accessibility to high-end technology products. Market analysts predict the program will expand Apple's share among mid-income consumers. The model may accelerate annual upgrade cycles while reducing financial barriers. It represents a strategic shift toward service-based revenue in hardware markets.
11Fintech and Retail Integration
The Apple-Klarna partnership demonstrates powerful fintech-retail convergence. This leasing model combines financing solutions with customer loyalty benefits, fostering long-term relationships. Particularly valuable during economic uncertainty, it helps maintain consumer purchasing power. The program pioneers how financial technology can transform retail experiences, setting benchmarks for industry innovation in payment flexibility.
12Apple's Strategic Move
Apple Upgrade aligns with the company's services-focused growth strategy. Complementing hardware sales with subscription-based revenue, the program aims to increase per-customer earnings. It also strengthens Apple's control over the refurbished device market. Analysts expect significant contributions to 2025 service revenues. The leasing model supports sustainable growth objectives while maintaining Apple's premium brand positioning in evolving market conditions.
Original article: Apple Newsroom — Apple ABD'de Yeni Kiralama Programını Başlattı