Apple is gearing up for a more focused and potentially much more expensive iPhone launch this fall.
For starters, the cheaper base iPhone 18 is being saved for spring. That leaves the more expensive Pro models and Apple’s first foldable iPhone Ultra to carry September, with higher-than-usual starting prices expected.
Here’s how Apple is already preparing to make the sticker shock more palatable for new customers and upgraders.
Apple Upgrade lowers the monthly price
First, Apple launched its new Klarna-backed Apple Upgrade program in July. Customers can lease an iPhone for either 12 or 24 months. The resulting monthly payment is lower than traditional financing over the same period because it covers only part of the device’s full price.
