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Apple winding down iPhone Upgrade Program: report

Chance Miller | Jul 21 2026 - 8:55 am PT

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Apple will reportedly launch a new "Apple Upgrade" leasing program next week. As part of that, the company is reportedly planning to wind down its existing iPhone Upgrade Program.

iPhone Upgrade Program coming to an end

Apple touts the iPhone Upgrade Program as the "easiest way to upgrade to a new iPhone." You make monthly payments and have the option to upgrade to a new iPhone after 12 months. It’s powered by Citizens One with 0% APR financing.

Separately, Apple has what it simply calls "Apple iPhone Payments." This is also backed by Citizens One and lets you finance an iPhone over 24 months, but with no built-in upgrade option.

Today’s news comes from Bloomberg‘s Mark Gurman, who says Apple will "discontinue new enrollments for its current iPhone payment programs" as part of the Apple Upgrade launch. That includes the iPhone Upgrade Program and "standard financing," according to the report.

One key difference is that the iPhone Upgrade Program includes AppleCare coverage, while Apple Upgrade won’t.

It’s not explicitly clear how this impacts existing iPhone Upgrade Program members. Apple Upgrade is reportedly launching on July 28 in partnership with Klarna, so we should learn more details then.

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Anker Nano USB-C wall charger with built-in screen

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USB-C cable that shows how fast you’re charging

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Chance Miller

chancehmiller

Chance is the editor-in-chief of 9to5Mac, overseeing the entire site’s operations. He also hosts the 9to5Mac Daily and 9to5Mac Happy Hour podcasts.

You can send tips, questions, and typos to chance@9to5mac.com.