breaking news about apple iphone
The
new iPhone Upgrade Program lets customers pay for a new iPhone in
monthly installments and upgrade to a new device every year. James Martin/CNET
Who wouldn't want a new iPhone every year?
Apple's newly announced iPhone Upgrade Program
offers customers the opportunity to upgrade their smartphone each year
by paying a monthly installment. In this column, I'll look at whether
the plan is worth it.
Apple's
plan mimics similar deals offered by the four major wireless operators,
which are ditching two-year service contracts with heavily subsidized
devices. Instead they're offering plans that require customers to pay
full price for a phone in exchange for lower service fees. T-Mobile
started the no-contract trend two years ago and Verizon is the latest to follow suit.
Installment plans help blunt the sticker shock of a new smartphone. And the upgrade plans help drive more iPhone sales.
Apple's
new plan could be a boon for the company, which will not only move more
inventory, but will also get a steady stream of older devices it can
resell.
The
new financing program will be available only at Apple retail locations.
Customers won't be able to sign up for it online. Devices bought
through the program will be unlocked, but they must be activated on
AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile or Verizon, the company said during the
announcement.
Dear Maggie,
I'm
sure you're getting lots of questions about the new iPhone Upgrade
program. Could explain how it works? Also, how does it compare to the
installment plans the carriers have? I'm a T-Mobile customer, so I don't
have the option of a contract plan. Should I be considering this plan?
Thanks,