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Apple expands payment options with Klarna, PayPal, and launches refurbished iPads in new markets
Apple has made some notable updates in both its payment options and product offerings, creating a more flexible and user-friendly ecosystem for customers across various regions. From integrating popular “buy now, pay later” services to expanding the availability of refurbished iPads, Apple continues to evolve its offerings to meet the needs of its diverse customer base.
Apple’s New Payment Integrations: Klarna and PayPal
Apple’s decision to discontinue its own Apple Pay Later service in June marked a shift towards offering more third-party options for installment payments. Previously, Apple Pay Later allowed eligible customers to split their purchases into four interest-free payments over six weeks. However, Apple ended this service and now offers alternatives through other established “buy now, pay later” (BNPL) providers, integrated into the Apple Pay system on iOS 18 and iPadOS 18.
Since last month, Affirm, a well-known BNPL provider, has been available through Apple Pay in the U.S. Today, Klarna, a major BNPL competitor, announced its integration with Apple Pay as well. Klarna’s payment plans are now available to U.S. and U.K. customers, with Canada to follow in the coming months. This integration is expected to further enhance the convenience of making purchases with Apple Pay, especially for users looking for flexible payment options.
To access Klarna and Affirm payment plans on iOS 18 or iPadOS 18, users can select the “Other Cards & Pay Later Options” feature during checkout. Klarna’s offerings include an interest-free “Pay in 4” plan, allowing users to divide purchases between $35 and $2,000 into four equal payments. This model is similar to what Apple Pay Later previously provided, making it a familiar choice for those who preferred the now-discontinued service.
Additionally, Apple has announced a future integration with PayPal. Starting next year, U.S. users will be able to see their PayPal balance directly within the Wallet app when using a PayPal debit card on their iPhone. This feature is expected to streamline payments for PayPal users and enhance the overall payment experience within Apple’s ecosystem.
Apple Launches Refurbished 2022 iPads in More Countries
In addition to its payment innovations, Apple has also expanded its product offerings by making certified refurbished iPads available in more regions. This week, Apple began selling refurbished 2022 models of the iPad Pro and iPad Air in additional countries, including France, Germany, Japan, and the U.K. These models were already available in the U.S. and Canada as of last month.
The refurbished lineup includes:
- Fourth-generation 11-inch iPad Pro (M2 chip)
- Sixth-generation 12.9-inch iPad Pro (M2 chip)
- Fifth-generation iPad Air (M1 chip)
These refurbished devices come with a range of storage capacities and color options, offering customers around a 15% discount compared to their original retail prices. Apple introduced the iPad Air model in March 2022, followed by the iPad Pro models in October of the same year.
Apple’s refurbished iPads undergo a rigorous process to ensure they meet high-quality standards. Each device is equipped with a new battery, a new outer shell, and comes in a new white box, complete with all original manuals and accessories, including a USB-C charging cable and power adapter. The company also puts these devices through thorough cleaning and testing to ensure full functionality and performance.
In terms of protection, refurbished iPads come with Apple’s one-year limited warranty and a 14-day return policy. Customers also have the option to purchase AppleCare+ for additional coverage. While these devices offer savings compared to brand-new models, it’s important to note that they are two years old, which means fewer years of iPadOS support compared to the latest iPads. For some users, newer models available through online retailers like Amazon might provide better long-term value.
Conclusion
Apple’s new Klarna and PayPal integrations, combined with the expansion of refurbished iPad sales, highlight the company’s ongoing efforts to provide more payment flexibility and cost-effective device options to its customers. Whether you’re looking for convenient installment payments or discounted iPads, Apple’s latest moves offer enhanced value across its ecosystem, catering to a variety of needs in today’s tech-driven world.