Goodbye iPhone Upgrade Program, hello Apple Upgrade: what we know about Apple’s new hardware subscription

Changes are coming in the way we buy our iPhones. According to Bloomberg, the Cupertino company is preparing to launch Apple Upgrade, a subscription to lower monthly payments and make upgrades easier. A very interesting system, even more so after the recent price hike for Macs and iPads, with which we’ll be able to get higher-end devices through more manageable and predictable payments.

A subscription for almost the whole lineup

According to the latest rumors, Apple Upgrade would debut in the United States on July 28 thanks to a partnership with Klarna. It would cover most iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple Watches, with 24-month terms for phones and watches and 36-month terms for computers and iPads. We could buy the device, upgrade to a new one, or return it at the end. The initial selection would focus on higher-end models, leaving the iPhone 16, the Apple Watch SE, and the MacBook Neo, for now, outside the offering.

The replacement for the iPhone Upgrade Program

The new service would replace the iPhone Upgrade Program, which would stop accepting new sign-ups. AppleCare+, which is now included with that program, would be purchased separately, which makes the payment plan more flexible.

While Apple all but confirms the foldable iPhone, the third beta of iOS 27 gives us clues about a system that can check the subscription status. In the event of a payment issue, the iPhone could activate a restricted mode keeping only the Phone, Health, Settings, Wallet apps, and other basic functions available. 

All in all, it seems Apple is moving forward in creating a hardware subscription. One that, much like Apple One does for the company’s services, will give us access to the company’s hardware. A subscription that lets us enjoy the best products and the latest ones at a more predictable price. We’ll be keeping an eye on the official announcement.