Hey everyone! I currently have the iPhone 16 Pro Max (256GB) on the upgrade program for $58.25 a month. I noticed that the iPhone 17 Pro Max (also 256GB) is priced at $61 a month. It seems strange since it should be the same price as last year's model at launch. Does anyone know why there's a price increase for the monthly payments?
3 Answers
I was in the same boat with my 16 Pro Max. I chatted with Apple support, and they hinted that the limits on upgrade options might be due to how Citizens is managing the program right now. Strangely, when I tried to apply as a new member, the 17 Pro Max didn't show up either. Super confusing!
Could it be higher taxes or additional fees that are affecting the monthly payment? Sometimes those little extras can add up, especially with new releases.
It looks like the higher monthly cost for the iPhone 17 Pro Max might be due to Apple including theft and loss coverage by default now. The iPhone 16 models had just the standard AppleCare+, so this change could explain the price bump. Definitely feels like they’re finding ways to increase profits without raising the device costs directly.

Exactly, it's a bit annoying how Apple is doing this. It feels sneaky to just change the insurance coverage and raise the monthly payments.