Apple Launches Apple Upgrade Service in the US with Monthly Payments for iPhones, Macs, iPads

Apple has officially launched a new service called Apple Upgrade in the United States. Instead of purchasing an iPhone, Mac, or iPad outright, users pay a monthly fee to use these devices. After a period of use, users can choose to buy out the device, upgrade to a newer model, or return it. The logic of this service is similar to existing device leasing models in China, but the key difference is that this is directly provided by Apple.

According to Apple, the iPhone and Apple Watch support up to 24 installments, while the Mac or iPad supports up to 36 monthly installments. During the lease period, users can upgrade to a newer model at any time. This service expands Apple's original iPhone Upgrade Program from the iPhone to the entire product line.

Apple's software subscription ecosystem already includes iTunes, the App Store, AppleCare, Apple Music, iCloud, Apple TV+, and Apple One. By now incorporating hardware into the subscription system, the model of paying for ongoing experience has extended from software to the devices themselves.