Apple and Samsung are expanding leasing, subscription and guaranteed-buyback schemes as smartphone makers seek to encourage more frequent upgrades. The approach could make premium devices easier to access for customers who routinely replace phones, while ensuring more used handsets enter the refurbished market.

Apple has launched its Apple Upgrade programme in the US with Klarna, covering iPhones, Macs, iPads and Apple Watches through monthly payments and options to upgrade, return or buy the device. Counterpoint expects the global replacement cycle to reach four years in 2026, up from 3.5 years in 2025, while IDC says US premium-phone owners keep devices for about 42 months. Analysts say leasing may be competitive for people upgrading every one or two years, but buying outright is usually cheaper for those keeping phones for three years or longer.