Klarna Selected as Leasing Partner for Apple's Upgrade Program

Klarna, the Swedish fintech known for its buy-now-pay-later services, will serve as the leasing provider for Apple's new hardware leasing initiative in the United States. The program, dubbed the Apple Upgrade plan, allows customers to lease devices rather than purchase them outright or through installment loans.

The move marks a deeper collaboration between the two companies, as Klarna already offers flexible payment options on Apple's online store. By integrating a leasing model, Apple aims to make its hardware more accessible while potentially encouraging more frequent upgrades among consumers.

Industry observers see the partnership as a strategic win for Klarna, which has been expanding its footprint in the U.S. market beyond traditional point-of-sale lending. For Apple, it adds another financing lever to sustain device sales in a maturing smartphone market.