Apple has reportedly shelved its plans for an iPhone hardware subscription service Apple is no longer pursuing its iPhone subscription service, according to sources familiar with the matter.
First rumored in 2022, the service was expected to allow customers to pay a fixed monthly fee to rent an iPhone. Subscribers would also have had the option to upgrade to the latest model when new iPhones were released.
The iPhone subscription service was allegedly leaked in the same year but faced delays due to software and legal complications. Now, it appears that the project has been abandoned altogether.
Apple is reportedly encountering challenges with battery sizes as well.
Similarities to the iPhone Upgrade Program
From the limited information available, Apple’s proposed subscription service seemed reminiscent of the iPhone Upgrade Program.
Launched in 2015, the iPhone Upgrade Program allows customers to sign up for a two-year monthly payment plan for their device, with current prices starting at €39.50 per month for the 128 GB iPhone 16. After making 12 payments, participants can upgrade to the newest iPhone model by initiating a new loan.
Unlike the Upgrade Program, which enables customers to own their iPhone outright after completing the payment plan, the now-shelved subscription service appeared to function more like a rental. Customers would likely have been required to return their device if they chose to cancel their subscription.
