Apple plans to start its U.S. iPhone leasing program on a confirmed start day through the official Apple program. The service partners with the payment partner for bill scheduling. It targets buyers amid increased spending levels after Apple pushed up Mac MSRPs not long ago. Users may pick installment plans instead of buying up front. Leased iPhones can be locked out if defaults occur. Apple includes tied functions in new iOS software. Some shoppers want to know how leasing stacks up against purchase outright. Critics raise that remote blocks leave buyers stranded if something goes wrong. Supporters argue leasing softens first bill and makes refreshes easier. The plan fits Apple's release pattern as iPhone prices climb device by device. Consumers are told to think things through before diving in.