Apple reportedly won’t launch an iPhone subscription service

The Verge - Dec 18th, 2024
Open on The Verge

Apple has abandoned plans to develop a hardware subscription service for iPhones, which would have allowed subscribers to receive a new iPhone each year. This service was initially reported to launch in 2022 but faced delays due to software bugs and regulatory issues. Despite the cancellation, Apple continues to offer installment plans, such as the iPhone Upgrade Program and Apple Card Monthly Installments, to help customers pay for iPhones over time. This decision follows Apple's recent shutdown of its Apple Pay Later service.

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RATING

5.4
Moderately Fair
Read with skepticism

The article provides a concise update on Apple's decision regarding its hardware subscription service, with room for improvement in source quality and transparency.

RATING DETAILS

7
Accuracy

The article appears accurate regarding Apple's decision to halt the hardware subscription service. However, it lacks direct citations or links to sources that would verify the claims made about Gurman's report and the reasons for the delay.

5
Balance

The article presents a single perspective, focusing on Apple's decision without exploring other viewpoints or potential implications for consumers or the market. It could benefit from a more balanced representation of different perspectives.

6
Clarity

The article is generally clear, but certain sections are confusing due to incomplete sentences and lack of structure. Improving the logical flow and ensuring complete sentences would enhance readability.

4
Source quality

The article references a report by Gurman but does not provide a direct citation or link to the original source. The lack of source attribution weakens the credibility and reliability of the information presented.

5
Transparency

The article does not disclose any potential conflicts of interest or affiliations. It also lacks transparency in terms of the sources of information and the reasoning behind Apple's business decisions.