Apple plans to start its U.S. iPhone leasing program on a set rollout date through the official Apple program. The service partners with a third-party financier for recurring billing. It targets buyers amid elevated device costs after Apple adjusted Mac price tags not long ago. Users may pick smaller recurring fees instead of buying all at once. Leased iPhones can be shut down offsite if terms fall apart. Apple includes linked settings in next iOS build. Some shoppers are unsure how leasing differs from ownership outright. Critics note that lockouts cut off phone use if plans fall behind. Supporters argue leasing softens first bill and makes refreshes easier. The plan ties into Apple's hardware cycle as iPhones get pricier device by device. Savvy buyers will check terms before diving in.