Apple plans to start its U.S. iPhone leasing program on a confirmed start day through the upgrade program channel. The service partners with a financing partner for spread-out costs. It targets buyers amid steeper price tags after Apple bumped Mac prices in recent weeks. Users may pick smaller recurring fees instead of buying all at once. Leased iPhones can be restricted from use if terms are broken. Apple includes associated toggles in upcoming iOS version. Some shoppers are curious how leasing shifts versus buying outright. Critics raise that remote locks can trap users if plans fall behind. Supporters claim leasing softens first bill and simplifies new model swaps. The plan matches Apple's launch rhythm as iPhone MSRPs inch higher device by device. Consumers are told to think things through before jumping in.