While announcing the new Apple iPhone 6s and 6s Plus, Apple also put a focus on the new iPhone Upgrade Program, which allows easier upgrade to the new iPhone every year. In short, A new iPhone every year and the coverage you want from AppleCare+.
This program will help the users get the new iPhone every year. This was something that was available already with the four network carries through which the company sells the iPhones in U.S., but here, Apple is making it easier for the users by giving a direct experience, and the users can start taking advantage of the iPhone Update Program, by buying the iPhone 6s or the 6s Plus.
Interestingly, the incidental damage cover, i.e. AppleCare+ is also included in this upgrade program, and this is a 24-month installment plan.
Check Apple iPhone 6s Specs | Apple iPhone 6s Plus Specs
If this is a 24-month plan, how is it different from the contact plans? As Phil Schiller explains during the event, even if the user has agreed to the 24-month installment, the upgrade will be possible once every year. But since a new iPhone is launched every 12 months, users can get the new iPhone, and start the new upgrade program from that day. Trade-in the current iPhone, and a new plan begins. No need to wait for the 24 month period to end.
How much does it cost to buy iPhone through the Upgrade Program?
- iPhone 6s 16GB: $32.41 per month
- iPhone 6s 64GB: $36.58 per month
- iPhone 6s 128GB: $40.75 per month
- iPhone 6s Plus 16GB: $36.58 per month
- iPhone 6s Plus 64GB: $40.75 per month
- iPhone 6s Plus 128GB: $44.91 per month
Can I switch to a new carrier while choosing the new iPhone?
The Apple iPhone Update Program doesn’t lock you with a particular carrier, and if you are not satisfied with a particular carrier, it will simply allow you to choose a new carrier while upgrading to the latest iPhone. The carriers included are AT&T, Verizon Wireless, Sprint and T-Mobile.
Where can I buy an iPhone via. its Upgrade Program?
The upgrade program will work with the new iPhone 6s and 6s Plus, and you will be able to get it only at the Apple Stores across the United States. Beginning at 12:01 PT times on September 12th, the user can pre-order the phone and then while purchasing on September 25th, they will be assisted by the Apple customer support in buying through this new program.
Are there any rules involved?
We see one rule already. This program is applicable only with qualified customers, and the users needs to have a U.S. Personal Credit Card. The customer will have to apply for 24-month installment loan with Citizens Bank, N.A., and the activation with a national carrier, one of the four tagged with Apple.
What if I don’t want to go for iPhone Upgrade Program?
As usual, you’ll still be able to purchase the new iPhone 6s or 6s Plus without opting for the upgrade program. Check the iPhone 6s pricing and availability details to see how much will you have to pay without opting for this program.
Are the older models cheaper now?
Yes, like every year, the pricing is now changed and the iPhone 6 will be $100 lesser on-contract, and same with the iPhone 6 Plus. Check the iPhone 6 and older models pricing for the details.
We’ll update here with more information as and when we get it, but the iPhone Upgrade Program does look good and useful for those who frequently upgrade their iPhones, but always see a big outflow of cash every year for that.
Apart from the new iPhones, Apple also announced the new iPad Pro, Apple TV and the cool accessory Apple Pencil.
