Apple has abandoned plans for an iPhone hardware subscription service, a move that may be seen as a relief in these uncertain economic times. The proposed service, which was first rumored in 2022, would have allowed customers to pay a monthly fee for their iPhone and upgrade to the latest model when new ones were released.
Similar to Apple’s existing iPhone Upgrade Program, the subscription service would have offered customers a way to spread out payments over time. However, unlike the program, the planned service seemed to focus more on renting rather than owning the device. Customers might have been required to return their iPhone if they canceled their subscription.
The decision to scrap the subscription service comes as Apple discontinues its Apple Pay Later program, which allowed customers to split payments into smaller installments. The move may indicate that the company is reassessing its financial products and prioritizing more traditional options. With the economy facing ongoing challenges, it’s likely that consumers prefer more straightforward payment plans rather than additional recurring expenses.
Source: https://mashable.com/article/apple-iphone-subscription-cancelled