Apple Starts Leasing Program for Its Devices as Prices Climb

Apple launched Apple Upgrade on July 28, 2026, letting US customers lease an iPhone, Mac, iPad, or Apple Watch instead of buying outright, with payments handled by Klarna. The program follows price increases on MacBooks and iPads caused by parts shortages. CEO Tim Cook called the pricing "unsustainable" and warned the iPhone 18 could cost even more. Leases last 24 months for phones and watches, 36 for Macs and iPads.