Apple reportedly has a new plan that could change how you upgrade devices

Apple is reportedly preparing a new Upgrade programme that could let users lease iPhones, Macs and iPads instead of buying them outright.

Apple could soon introduce a new way for customers to get their hands on its devices. According to a report by Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, the company is preparing to launch a new Apple Upgrade programme on July 28. The service is said to let customers lease eligible Apple devices through monthly payments instead of purchasing them outright. However, Apple has not officially announced the programme, and all details remain based on reports.

Apple's new leasing programme is reportedly launching soon. (Bloomberg)

By Amit Rahi

For the past seven years, I have tracked consumer tech through constant shifts in hardware, platforms, and the way people actually use devices. Covering everything from budget gear to flagship hardware, I focus on what readers need to know, not on buzzwords or launch cycle hype. My expertise spans gaming laptops and chairs, high-performance PCs, gaming monitors, printers, smartwatches, earphones, headphones, Bluetooth speakers, tablets, and more, with a particular emphasis on how these products hold up in daily use. Reviews, explainers, buying guides, and news pieces all share the same goal: giving readers enough detail to make confident decisions without wading through fluff. Away from deadlines, I spend a lot of time gaming and watching films and anime, which naturally filters back into the work. Performance, comfort, display quality, and sound are judged the way players and viewers experience them, not just by lab numbers, which keeps my coverage grounded in real scenarios rather than just benchmarks.

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What is the reported Apple Upgrade programme?

The Apple Upgrade programme is reportedly a leasing service that will cover more than just iPhones. According to the report, eligible products are expected to include iPhones, iPads, Macs and Apple Watches.

Instead of paying the full price of a device, customers would reportedly pay a monthly fee for a fixed period. At the end of the lease, they could have the option to upgrade to a newer model, purchase the device by paying the remaining amount, or return it.

The report also claims that iPhones and Apple Watches may be offered with a 24 month lease, while Macs and iPads could come with a 36 month term.

How it will work?

Bloomberg's report suggests Apple has partnered with Klarna to power the financing service. Customers are reportedly expected to go through a soft credit check, which typically does not affect their credit score.

The report further states that Apple may stop accepting new customers for its existing iPhone Upgrade Program and standard iPhone financing option if the new programme is introduced.

What could it mean for customers?

If the reported programme launches, it could provide another way for customers to access Apple's premium devices without paying the full amount upfront. Instead of purchasing a new device every few years, users may be able to switch to a newer model once their lease period ends, subject to the programme's terms.

According to the report, the new programme may not include AppleCare+, unlike Apple's current iPhone Upgrade Program. Customers may therefore need to purchase protection separately if they want accidental damage coverage.

Apple has not confirmed the Apple Upgrade programme or its reported July 28 launch date. Until the company makes an official announcement, all information about the service should be treated as a report rather than confirmed news.