MacVoices #26220: Live! - New Ways To Pay For Your Apple Gear

The MacVoices Live! panel examines Apple's move from the iPhone Upgrade Program to a Klarna-backed leasing model, including the possibility of restricting leased devices after missed payments. The discussion explores how financing could soften the impact of rising iPhone prices, especially for premium and foldable models. They share personal experiences while debating ownership versus leasing, AppleCare implications, trade-in strategies, and changing consumer expectations around smartphone upgrades.

The panel includes Chuck Joiner, David Ginsburg, Marty Jencius, Eric Bolden, Brian Flanigan-Arthurs, Jim Rea, Web Bixby, and Jeff Gamet.

Today's MacVoices is supported by TV+ Talk, our MacVoices series with Charlotte Henry focused on Apple TV+. From shows and other content to the business side there's always something to learn about apple's streaming service. Find it at the Categories listings on the web site or go directly to macvoices.com/category/tv-talk.

Show Notes:

Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and panel introductions 03:57 Apple ends the iPhone Upgrade Program 07:42 Klarna leasing and financing compared to ownership 13:06 Missed payments and device restrictions in iOS 27 18:08 AppleCare, trade-ins, and keeping older devices 22:20 Leasing as a path to premium and foldable iPhones 26:10 Consumer habits, pricing, and the future of smartphone ownership

Links:

Apple winding down iPhone Upgrade Program: report https://9to5mac.com/2026/07/21/apple-winding-down-iphone-upgrade-program-report/

Apple to Launch 'Upgrade' Device Leasing Program With Klarna to Spur Sales https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-07-21/apple-to-launch-upgrade-device-leasing-program-with-klarna-to-spur-sales

iOS 27 code suggests Apple could restrict leased devices after missed payments https://9to5mac.com/2026/07/21/ios-27-code-suggests-apple-could-restrict-leased-devices-after-missed-payments/

Apple winding down iPhone