Launch of Apple Upgrade Leasing Program
On July 28, 2026, Apple launched 'Apple Upgrade,' a new hardware leasing program in the United States covering iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, and Mac. The program, backed by financial company Klarna, replaces the previous iPhone Upgrade Program and allows customers to pay monthly to use a device with options to upgrade, purchase, or return it at the end of the term.
Aggregated from 10 sources · Updated 31 Jul 2026, 03:19 UTC (UTC)
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10 sourcesFacts (12)
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Apple launched 'Apple Upgrade,' a hardware leasing program in the United States, on July 28, 2026.
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The program is provided in partnership with financial services company Klarna.
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The Apple Upgrade leasing program replaces the previously offered iPhone Upgrade Program and iPhone Payments.
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The program covers iPhone, Apple Watch, Mac, and iPad devices.
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Leasing terms are set at 12 or 24 months for iPhone and Apple Watch, and 24 or 36 months for Mac and iPad.
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Starting monthly lease prices are $17.99 for iPhone, $11.99 for Apple Watch and iPad, and $24.99 for Mac.
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At the end of the lease term, customers may upgrade to a new device, purchase the current device with a one-time payment, or return the device and exit the program.
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Enrollment involves a soft credit inquiry by Klarna that does not impact the applicant's credit score.
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AppleCare is not included in the base lease price but is available as an optional add-on.
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The program launch follows recent price increases for MacBooks and iPads attributed to memory and storage shortages.
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Payment made via Apple Card grants 3 percent Daily Cash back on monthly lease installments.
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Leasing the iPhone requires a carrier plan from AT&T, T-Mobile, or Verizon, though the devices themselves are unlocked.