Apple’ iPhone 6S and 6S Plus are set to go on sale on Friday, Sept.25. Pre-orders for the new devices are already in full-swing as Apple expects to sell more than 10 million units in the first weekend itself. If you are looking to buy the brand new iPhone 6S or 6S Plus, you can purchase them from the Apple Store, wireless carrier stores, and other retailers. But where do you get the best deal?
Is Apple beating carriers in iPhone 6S deals?
The whole deal has become quite confusing with all the contracts, leasing plans, pay-to-own schemes, and upfront purchases. PCMag has cut through the clutter by creating a chart to help you find the best deal on the iPhone 6S or 6S Plus. A quick look at the chart suggests that AT&T Next 24-month plan could be your best deal.
However, Apple has outflanked carriers by launching its own iPhone Upgrade Program. The plan allows users to pay Apple, instead of a carrier, for your phone over 24 months. After payments for the first 12 months, you can trade in your current phone for a new model. If you upgrade, the monthly payments will start all over again. If you do not upgrade, you’ll own the device after 24 payments.
It includes AppleCare+ (an $11/month value)
For iPhone 6S, Apple charges $32.41 for 16GB, $36.58 for 64GB, and $40.75 for 128GB model per month. The 5.5-inch iPhone 6S Plus costs $36.58 per month for 16GB, $40.75 for 64GB, and $44.91 for 128GB. You are free to choose your carrier. At first glance, these payments may seem a bit higher than those offered by carriers. But Apple’s deal is much better.
The plan is useful especially for those who want to upgrade their iPhone every year. Another thing is that Apple’s plan includes AppleCare+ phone support/damage insurance and the option to trade in your current phone for a new one. For instance, if you want a 16GB iPhone 6S, you can get it for $32.41 per month, and when the iPhone 7 (or whatever it is called) arrives, you can get a 16GB iPhone 7 while keep paying the monthly sum.
