Apple has officially launched Apple Upgrade, a new financing programme that replaces the long-running iPhone Upgrade Program and expands monthly payment options to more of the company’s product lineup.
For the first time, eligible customers in the US can finance not only an iPhone, but also select iPads, Macs and Apple Watches through a single scheme.
The new programme offers 12- or 24-month terms for iPhones and Apple Watches. Meanwhile, Macs and iPads can be financed over 24 to 36 months. At the end of the lease, customers can return the device, upgrade to a newer model, or purchase it outright by paying the remaining balance based on its original retail price. Apple says customers won’t pay more than the device’s MSRP before interest is applied.
Unlike some earlier rumours suggested, Apple Upgrade does not include any mechanism that disables or restricts devices if payments are missed.
Apple has integrated Apple Upgrade directly into the Apple Store app, its online storefront and physical Apple Stores. After choosing a compatible device, customers can select Apple Upgrade alongside paying in full, Apple Card financing or eligible carrier offers during checkout.
Trade-ins are also built into the process and can be used to reduce monthly payments from the outset. The financing side itself is handled through Klarna. Applicants complete a soft credit check that won’t affect their credit score or require them to leave Apple’s checkout flow.
Customers can also upgrade before their lease ends, although they’ll first need to pay off any remaining instalments. That makes early upgrades considerably more attractive later in the payment term than at the beginning.
There are a few limitations. iPhone purchases require buyers to select a carrier during checkout. However, Apple says the handsets remain unlocked and can be used on other networks afterwards.
More devices, but fewer bundled perks
While Apple Upgrade supports a much broader range of hardware than its predecessor, some entry-level devices aren’t eligible. The programme excludes the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, Apple Watch SE, base iPad, Mac mini, Studio Display and MacBook Neo. Business and education purchases are also excluded.
The biggest difference from the previous iPhone Upgrade Program is that AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss protection is no longer included. Instead, Apple Upgrade leaves coverage as an optional extra, steering customers toward its newer AppleCare One subscription.
Existing iPhone Upgrade Program members can continue using the older service until their current agreements end. However, new customers will now be directed to Apple Upgrade instead.
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