Apple Launches New Apple Upgrade Leasing Program
_x000D_Apple has introduced the Apple Upgrade leasing program, giving customers in the United States a new way to access its premium devices through flexible monthly payments. Powered by fintech company Klarna, the new program replaces both the long-running iPhone Upgrade Program and Citizens One financing.
_x000D_The initiative expands beyond smartphones, allowing customers to lease nearly the entire Apple hardware lineup, including iPhones, Macs, iPads, and Apple Watches.
_x000D_ _x000D_How the Apple Upgrade Leasing Program Works
_x000D_The Apple Upgrade leasing program functions similarly to a vehicle lease, making expensive Apple devices more affordable through predictable monthly payments.
_x000D_Customers can apply either online or in Apple Stores through a fast approval process handled by Klarna. The application uses a soft credit check, meaning it does not impact an applicant’s credit score.
_x000D_The goal is to provide consumers with easier access to premium Apple products without requiring large upfront payments.
_x000D_ _x000D_Three Flexible Options at the End of the Lease
_x000D_Once the lease period ends, customers can choose from three options based on their needs.
_x000D_ _x000D_Upgrade to a New Device
_x000D_Customers can return their current Apple device and immediately begin leasing the latest available model.
_x000D_ _x000D_Purchase the Device
_x000D_Those who wish to keep their hardware permanently can pay the remaining buyout amount and become the full owner.
_x000D_ _x000D_Return the Device
_x000D_Users who no longer need the device can simply return it to Apple and end the lease agreement.
_x000D_If no decision is made after the lease expires, the agreement automatically switches to a month-to-month lease for up to six months before a final purchase charge is applied.
_x000D_ _x000D_What’s Included in the Program
_x000D_Apple has expanded flexible financing across most of its major products.
_x000D_Eligible devices include:
_x000D_ _x000D_- _x000D_
- iPhone _x000D_
- Mac _x000D_
- iPad _x000D_
- Apple Watch _x000D_
Customers can also use eligible trade-in devices to reduce their monthly lease payments.
_x000D_Those paying with an Apple Card continue to receive 3% Daily Cash rewards on qualifying lease payments.
_x000D_ _x000D_Devices Not Included
_x000D_Several Apple products are excluded from the new leasing program.
_x000D_These include:
_x000D_ _x000D_- _x000D_
- iPhone 16 _x000D_
- iPhone 16 Plus _x000D_
- Apple Watch SE _x000D_
- iPad (A16) _x000D_
- MacBook Neo _x000D_
- Studio Display _x000D_
In addition, AppleCare+ is no longer included with the lease and must be purchased separately if customers want device protection.
_x000D_ _x000D_Why Apple Partnered With Klarna
_x000D_Apple’s partnership with Klarna allows the company to offer more flexible financing without assuming the financial risk itself.
_x000D_Instead of managing loans directly, Klarna handles customer verification and lease financing, helping Apple focus on hardware sales while giving buyers more affordable payment options.
_x000D_The subscription-style model also makes it easier for users to upgrade regularly as flagship device prices continue to rise.
_x000D_ _x000D_Apple Targets Growing Demand for Flexible Payments
_x000D_With technology becoming increasingly expensive, Apple is adapting to changing consumer preferences by offering leasing instead of traditional financing.
_x000D_The Apple Upgrade leasing program provides customers with greater flexibility, predictable monthly costs, and easier access to Apple’s newest products, positioning the company to compete more aggressively in the growing subscription-based hardware market.
