Can't afford iPhone or MacBook? Now you can rent one from Apple

Apple has officially launched Apple Upgrade in the US, a new Klarna-backed leasing program that lets customers lease iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple Watches with monthly payments and flexible upgrade options.Apple introduces Apple Upgrade, a new device leasing program in the US.Apple has introduced a new Apple Upgrade program. It is a flexible leasing service that allows customers to rent Apple products across iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple Watches with monthly payments instead of paying the full price at a single time. But there is a catch. Apple Upgrade is only available in the US for now.The program, which Apple has reportedly been working on for months, is powered by Klarna and is available through Apple's online store, Apple Store app, and retail locations across the US.With this change, Apple is making it easier for people who can't afford an iPhone or MacBook to own one. In simple words, instead of purchasing a device outright, users can lease it for a fixed period, upgrade to a newer model at the end of the lease, buy the device with a final payment, or simply return it and leave the program.How Apple Upgrade worksApple Upgrade offers different lease durations depending on the product. iPhones and Apple Watches are available with 12- or 24-month lease options, while Macs and iPads can be leased for 24 or 36 months. Monthly pricing starts at $17.99 for iPhone, $11.99 for Apple Watch, $24.99 for Mac, and $11.99 for iPad. Customers can further reduce their monthly payments by trading in an eligible device through Apple Trade In. Those paying with an Apple Card can also earn 3 per cent Daily Cash on their lease payments.To join the program, customers need to complete a Klarna application, which Apple says takes only a few minutes. The approval process involves a soft credit check, meaning it will not affect the applicant's credit score. Once approved, customers can complete their purchase online or pick up their device from an Apple Store. Apple also says customers can add an AppleCare subscription separately for device protection.Apple retires its old iPhone Upgrade Program With the launch of Apple Upgrade, Apple has confirmed that it is ending new enrolments for the iPhone Upgrade Program and iPhone Payments in the United States.Customers already enrolled in the older iPhone Upgrade Program can switch to Apple Upgrade when eligible, continue using Apple Card Monthly Installments, choose carrier financing, or purchase their next Apple device outright.The launch comes just weeks before Apple's expected September iPhone event, where the company is widely expected to unveil its next-generation iPhone lineup. The new leasing program could make it easier for users to move to future Apple devices without paying the full upfront cost.- EndsPublished On: Jul 28, 2026 19:09 IST