Apple Device Leasing Partnership with Klarna

Apple has partnered with Klarna to power a new device leasing program that launched July 28, 2026. Klarna is the exclusive financial partner, replacing Citizens Bank. The program offers 24-month leases for iPhones and 36-month for Macs, with lower payments but no AppleCare. This is a massive validation of Klarna's platform beyond traditional BNPL into high-value hardware financing, driving a 9-11% stock surge. A critical opinion piece previously called the plan a 'trap,' adding contrarian sentiment. Investors await Q2 earnings on Aug 18 for impact.