Singtel has launched Singapore's first smartphone leasing plans for selected Samsung and Apple handsets.
The operator will give customers on its SIM only plans the option to pay a monthly fee for the use of one of a line of handsets.
Customers will lease their handset for 24 months, with an option to upgrade after the 12th month for a S$200 ($150) fee.
Singtel is currently offering the Samsung Galaxy S9, S9+ and Note 8 as well as the iPhone 8, 8 Plus and X. Prices range from S$35 per month for the 64GB Galaxy S9 up to S$62 per month for the 256GB iPhone X. Handsets must be returned after the lease period ends.
Singtel said the plans represent savings of hundreds of dollars off the regular retail prices of the handsets.
“Our mobile leasing plans allow customers to take advantage of the flexibility of our SIM Only plans and give them the option to lease a smartphone at an affordable monthly rate.” Singtel CEO consumer Singapore Yuen Kuan Moon said.
The plans are being made exclusively available to Singtel mobile and broadband customers who have been subscribed to the company for more than six months.