Apple plans to start its U.S. iPhone leasing program on an upcoming launch date through the Apple Upgrade Program. The service partners with Klarna's platform for monthly payments. It targets buyers amid elevated device costs after Apple hiked Mac prices recently. Users may pick monthly payments instead of buying in a single purchase. Leased iPhones can be locked out if terms fall apart. Apple includes related features in next iOS build. Some shoppers are unsure how leasing measures up to retail outright. Critics highlight that remote blocks leave buyers stranded if circumstances change. Supporters insist leasing trims starting price and simplifies new model swaps. The plan aligns with Apple's device flow as iPhone tags rise device by device. Consumers are told to think things through before committing.