Apple is discontinuing the iPhone Upgrade Program, and its replacement may not be well-received by everyone.
Bid farewell to your previous iPhone upgrade plan.
Apple has officially introduced its revamped Apple Upgrade leasing plan, which encompasses much more than the former program did. This new plan now includes iPhones, iPads, Apple Watches, and Macs. However, there's a significant detail in today’s announcement: the iPhone Upgrade Program you may currently be a part of will be discontinued permanently.
What should you do if you’re already part of the iPhone Upgrade Program?
If you're already enrolled, there's no need to panic, but you should be aware. When your upgrade period arrives, you will no longer be able to obtain your next iPhone through the old program. According to Apple, you'll need to choose between leasing through Apple Upgrade, financing with Apple Card Monthly Installments, purchasing the phone outright, or going through your carrier.
Apple will assist you with the transition when the time comes, ensuring you're not left in the dark. Personally, I'm disappointed to see the iPhone Upgrade Program come to an end. It has been available since 2015, launching alongside the iPhone 6s and 6s Plus. Initially, it was an in-store-only offering before it became available online the following year. It's had a solid decade-long run, and many of us grew accustomed to it.
So, what exactly changes with Apple Upgrade?
This is where it gets intriguing. The previous iPhone Upgrade Program was essentially a loan from Citizens One, where your monthly installments contributed to the phone’s total cost. After 12 payments, you had the option to upgrade, or choose to keep the phone for the full 24 months.
The Apple Upgrade leasing model functions differently. For starters, Apple has partnered with Klarna instead of Citizens One. Additionally, it operates as a lease, meaning Klarna technically retains ownership of your device while you make payments. At the end of your term, you can choose to upgrade to a new device, buy out your current one, or simply walk away.
One key advantage is that the new program now includes iPads and Macs, which is positive news for consumers. However, there is also a significant change to highlight. In the past, AppleCare was included in your monthly payment for the iPhone Upgrade Program. In the new Apple lease program, this now requires a separate payment, so be mindful of this when assessing the overall cost of your next iPhone.
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Apple is discontinuing the iPhone Upgrade Program, and its replacement may not be well-received by everyone.
Apple has introduced its new Apple Upgrade leasing plan, officially replacing the traditional iPhone Upgrade Program. Here’s what existing members should be aware of before their next upgrade period arrives.