Apple launches monthly payment plans for iPhones, Macs, and iPads: Full list of eligible devices
By Aboki Forex —
Apple has unveiled a new financing programme that lets customers acquire select devices through affordable monthly instalments, replacing its long-running iPhone Upgrade Programme. The initiative, launched in partnership with payment platform Klarna, is currently available in the United States through Apple retail stores, the company's website and the Apple Store app.
The move comes as consumers worldwide, including many Nigerians who purchase Apple products through international channels, grapple with rising smartphone prices and longer upgrade cycles.
Eligible devices and payment terms
Under the new leasing programme, customers can spread the cost of several flagship Apple products over one to three years. Eligible products include:
iPhone 17 lineup, iPhone Air, Apple Watch Series 11, Apple Watch Ultra 3, MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, iMac, Mac Studio, iPad Air, iPad Pro, and iPad Mini.
Customers can lease iPhones and Apple Watches for either 12 or 24 months, while Macs and iPads are available on 24- or 36-month payment plans. However, Apple excluded several of its more affordable products from the programme. Devices not covered include the iPhone 16, MacBook Neo, the standard iPad and the Apple Watch SE.
According to Apple, the cheapest iPhone lease now starts at just $17.99 per month, a significant reduction from the previous programme where monthly payments typically started at around $42.
Industry context and expert views
Industry experts believe Apple is responding to changing consumer behaviour, as many smartphone users now keep their devices for much longer before upgrading. Francisco Jeronimo, an analyst at market research firm International Data Corporation (IDC), said the leasing programme reflects the growing trend of customers delaying smartphone upgrades. A survey by Reviews.org found that the average American now keeps a smartphone for about 22 months before replacing it.
Last month, Apple increased prices on several Mac and iPad models, citing a global memory shortage fuelled by rising demand from data centres. Analysts have also warned that future iPhone models could see notable price increases. Mike Howard, Vice President of Memory Coverage at research firm TechInsights, recently told CNN that consumers should begin preparing for a future where flagship iPhones could cost around $1,500, compared with today's typical $1,000 to $1,200 price range.
The new leasing programme arrives just weeks before Apple's anticipated September product event, where the company is widely expected to unveil the iPhone 18 series, including what could become Apple's first foldable iPhone.
What this means for Nigerian consumers
For Nigerians who buy Apple devices through international channels or from local resellers, the new programme signals that Apple is betting on monthly payments to keep premium products accessible. While the leasing option is not yet available in Nigeria, the trend of spreading costs over time could influence local financing offers from banks and device retailers. The rising cost of flagship iPhones, with analysts warning of $1,500 price tags ahead, means Nigerian shoppers may need to plan for higher prices or look for similar instalment deals closer to home.