Today Apple has updated its ‘Trade up with Installments‘ program to further simplify the program. Previously, the company relied on a 24-month installment loan from its partner Citizens bank.
Now, the iPhone maker is taking it a step further by relying on carrier financing programs which allows the customer to trade in their old smartphone and use that as a credit towards their iPhone purchase.
The program no longer requires a credit check to trade in a device, and the customer no longer needs to sign a loan agreement. However, with the new method it means that the iPhones will be locked to a carrier, versus being unlocked previously.
On Apple’s website, the text now reads:
Sales tax on the full value of new iPhone and any applicable fees may be due at time of purchase. Value of your current device may be applied toward purchase of a new Apple iPhone via an available carrier financing plan.
And the old text read:
Available to qualified customers with a credit check and eligible U.S. credit card. Monthly payment may vary depending on condition and type of device you trade in. Offer only available on presentation of a valid, government-issued photo ID (local law may require saving this information). Requires a 24-month installment loan with a 0% APR from Citizens Bank, N.A. (subject to any interest, fees, or other costs payable to the issuer of the credit card). Requires financing of at least $239.
Customers who are interested in this program can visit Apple’s website to read up more.
