Apple Launches Apple Upgrade: Rent an iPhone Starting at $18 Per Month
Apple has officially introduced Apple Upgrade, a new subscription-style device rental program that allows customers in the United States to lease Apple products instead of purchasing them outright.
Powered by Klarna, the program enables users to rent iPhones, Apple Watches, Macs, and iPads with flexible monthly payments while offering the option to upgrade to newer models, purchase the device, or simply return it at the end of the lease.
iPhone rentals start at just $17.99 per month
Apple Upgrade covers most of Apple's latest hardware lineup, including the iPhone 17 series, MacBook Air, Apple Watch Series 11, and several iPad models.
Monthly pricing begins at:
- iPhone 17e: $17.99/month (24 months)
- iPhone 17: $22.99/month (24 months)
- iPhone Air: $28.99/month (24 months)
- iPhone 17 Pro: $31.99/month (24 months)
Other starting prices include:
- Apple Watch Series 11: From $11.99/month
- MacBook: From $24.99/month
- iPad mini: From $15.99/month
Customers can choose 12- or 24-month leases for iPhones and Apple Watches, while Macs and iPads are available with 24- or 36-month agreements.
Three choices at the end of the lease
Once the lease expires, customers can choose one of three options:
- Upgrade to a newer Apple device.
- Purchase the leased device by paying the remaining balance.
- Return the product and leave the program.
Apple also allows customers to trade in eligible Apple devices or Android smartphones to reduce their monthly lease payments.
Klarna handles financing
The financing and payment process is managed by Klarna. Applicants go through a soft credit check that does not affect their credit score. Once approved, all payment schedules, due dates, and lease details can be managed directly through the Klarna app.
The first payment is due approximately 30 days after the device is shipped or picked up.
AppleCare is optional
Unlike some subscription services, AppleCare+ is not included by default. Customers can add it for an additional monthly fee or include the device in an existing AppleCare One subscription.
Some devices are excluded
Apple Upgrade does not currently include several products, including:
- iPhone 16
- iPhone 16 Plus
- Apple Watch SE
- MacBook Neo
- Mac mini
- iPad (A16)
- Studio Display
Currently limited to the United States
For iPhone rentals, customers must activate service with AT&T, Verizon, or T-Mobile. Although activation is required, the devices remain unlocked, allowing users to switch carriers later if they wish.
Apple Card users also receive 3% Daily Cash on eligible lease payments.
If customers take no action after the lease ends, the agreement automatically continues on a month-to-month basis for up to six months, after which the remaining purchase balance may become due. Missing three consecutive payments results in termination of the lease agreement and collection of the outstanding balance.
Apple Upgrade is now available through Apple's official website, the Apple Store app, and Apple retail stores across the United States.
