Apple Might Offer a Hardware Subscription Service for iPhones Later This Year
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Subscription services have made Apple a lot of money over the past few years. Now, it sounds like the tech giant wants to expand its reach beyond software. According to a new report, Apple might be working on a subscription plan for both iPhone and iPad hardware – and we could see it launch as early as this year.
The report comes from Bloomberg, which (according to sources close to Apple) claims the program has been in development for several months. Essentially, the hardware subscription service would allow you to pay a monthly fee to access either an iPhone or an iPad, with the potential option to upgrade to a new device as they become available. Bloomberg notes that it appears to function in a similar manner to “an auto-leasing program,” although specific pricing details were not readily available.
Apple is hoping to let users opt into the hardware subscription from the same account used for other software subscriptions and for purchasing apps through the App Store. It would be an interesting tactic, as more than half of Apple’s revenue is driven by iPhone sales – offering a hardware subscription service could eat into profits, or it could open the door to a wider, more budget-minded audience. Today, subscription services make up around 19% of Apple’s revenue.
A hardware subscription from Apple would be competing with existing monthly payment plans from wireless carriers such as AT&T and Verizon. It’s unclear how Apple’s plan would differ from those already on the market, although tying payments directly to an existing Apple account could make it the most convenient option on the market.
The Best Deals and Discounts on Apple Products
Apple’s alleged subscription service could make payments more affordable and convenient, but there are currently plenty of ways to score the company’s expensive electronics at a discount. Whether you’re looking for a new smartphone, tablet or laptop, here are the best price cuts on Apple gadgets:
iPhone 13 – Sale Price: $0 (With Select Trades) | Regular Price: $799.99
iPad mini (2021, Wi-Fi) – Sale Price: $459 | Regular Price: $499
iPad Air 10.9-Inch (2020) – Sale Price: $499.99 | Regular Price: $599
iPad Air 10.9-Inch (2022) – Sale Price: $569.99 | Regular Price: $599
MacBook Pro 13-Inch (M1, 2020) – Sale Price: $1,149.99 | Regular Price: $1,299
MacBook Pro 14-Inch (M1 Pro, 2021) – Sale Price: $2,249 | Regular Price: $2,499
More to consider:
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