Potentially, your iPhone and iPad may transition into serving as your upcoming subscription platforms.
In the future, you might not actually own your smartphone or tablet – not even your beloved iPhone or iPad. This intriguing concept is being tossed around by tech giant Apple, according to a report by Bloomberg.
Apple's rumored plan involves introducing a monthly subscription service for their hardware, like the iPhone and iPad. This would be a first for the company, allowing users to subscribe to their hardware instead of buying it outright.
This potential new program wouldn't be a carbon copy of the existing iPhone Upgrade Program. While that program starts at around $35/month, offering a new iPhone every year and AppleCare+ coverage, this new service would operate more like an auto-leasing program. This shift in Apple's business model could extend the relationship with consumers by making Apple products more financially accessible.
While we're still waiting for an official announcement, sources close to the matter suggest that this service is still in development. For those who can't afford the upfront cost of hardware, this could be a game-changer. For others, it might just be a fun excuse to constantly have the latest and greatest iPhone.
Dealing with upgrades would be a breeze with this new service. Rather than navigating the intricacies of your cell service provider, you'd manage your subscription through your Apple account. Imagine the convenience!
Apple has yet to comment on these reports, but if they're true, it's not entirely surprising. After all, Apple has financing infrastructure in place following the launch of the Apple Card and its partnership with Citizens One Personal Loans for the iPhone Upgrade Program.
The idea of a hardware subscription service isn't entirely groundbreaking. As digital streaming services grew in popularity, it was only a matter of time before physical goods followed suit. Peloton, for instance, is reportedly testing a subscription service for its bikes.
At this stage, whether this rumor becomes reality remains to be seen. But with its subscription ecosystem growing and focus on recurring revenue, Apple does seem to be heading in this direction. Only time will tell.
In 2023, this tech-driven future might be enabled by Apple's leasing service for their tech products, like iPhones and iPads. This shift could hardly make AppleCare more affordable and accessible for many users. If this service materializes, it might make dealing with upgrades a less daunting task, as users could manage their subscriptions directly through their Apple accounts. Interestingly, similar services are being explored by other tech companies, such as Peloton, indicating a potential trend in the tech industry.
