Multiple outlets report that Apple is preparing to launch a new “Apple Upgrade” leasing program next week, with the change also affecting its existing iPhone Upgrade Program. Citing Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, MacRumors reports that Apple plans to stop accepting new sign-ups for the iPhone Upgrade Program after the new program launches. The reports do not settle whether current iPhone Upgrade Program members can continue beyond their existing terms or whether Apple will migrate them to the Apple Upgrade program at a later point.
AppleInsider adds that the iPhone Upgrade Program has been in place for more than a decade and that its wind-down would effectively replace similar installment options in Apple’s payments lineup. AppleInsider and MacRumors both note a stated structural difference between the programs: the proposed Apple Upgrade plan reportedly does not bundle AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss coverage, which could change monthly pricing compared with the current iPhone Upgrade Program.
The outlets agree the timing centers on the Apple Upgrade launch date reported as July 28, but they differ on details about how existing memberships will be handled.
