Technology1 Aug 2026SEO 801 min read

Analysis: Should you still buy your next smartphone — or subscribe to it instead?

The smartphone industry’s next battleground may not be the phone itself, but how consumers get it. As premium devices become more expensive, Apple, Samsu…

The smartphone industry’s next battleground may not be the phone itself, but how consumers get it. As premium devices become more expensive, Apple, Samsung, and others are betting that leasing, subscriptions, and guaranteed buyback programs can make upgrading more attractive. This week, Apple launched Apple Upgrade in the U.S. in partnership with Klarna, allowing consumers to lease an iPhone, Mac, iPad, or Apple Watch for a monthly fee with the option to upgrade, return, or eventually pur…

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AnalysisShouldyoustillbuyyournextsmartphone