Apple plans to start its U.S. iPhone leasing program on that early timeframe through the company-backed program. The service partners with the lender for installment plans. It targets buyers amid bigger upfront fees after Apple bumped Mac price tags recently. Users may pick installment plans instead of buying in one go. Leased iPhones can be blocked from access if users miss obligations. Apple includes associated toggles in next iOS build. Some shoppers are unsure how leasing measures up to retail outright. Critics highlight that disablement limits flexibility if payments slip. Supporters claim leasing softens first bill and keeps upgrades simpler. The plan ties into Apple's hardware cycle as iPhones get pricier device by device. Users are advised to review before signing on.