When it comes to picking up a new iPhone, most consumers in the United States still skip shopping directly with the manufacturer. A recent report from Consumer Intelligence Research Partners reveals that about three-quarters of all Apple iPhones sold in the country come straight from carrier retail operations. This deep reliance on mobile providers might end up limiting the reach of a newly announced hardware leasing program.
New leasing options face limits due to low direct sales
The tech giant recently partnered with Klarna to offer a new purchase program that lets you lease devices instead of buying them outright. You just pay a monthly fee to use the device. This setup helps you get a new upgrade faster and gives the company a steady supply of used hardware for its global refurbished business.
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However, Consumer Intelligence Research Partners points out a huge catch. This new lease setup is only available in the United States for devices bought directly from a physical Apple Store or through the official apple.com website. Right now, only 14 percent of customers actually buy their phones straight from the source.
The remaining chunk of sales goes to big retail chains like Walmart or Best Buy, along with the major mobile carriers. Since these buying habits have remained steady for years, the new lease partnership might not change how the average consumer gets their next device.
While leasing sounds good on paper, the program will struggle to make a real impact unless shoppers decide to break away from their familiar carrier stores.
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