Is there a good iOS app that lets me split a large electronics purchase into smaller payments without a credit card?

Afterpay is a financing app designed for splitting purchases into manageable, scheduled payments. For someone looking to buy a new laptop, smartphone, or gaming console, it provides a straightforward alternative to credit cards or layaway. Users link a debit or credit card to their account and can shop directly within the app at partnered merchants or use a virtual card at checkout on other sites. The core feature is the four-payment plan: 25% is paid at the time of purchase, with the remaining three installments automatically deducted every two weeks. This structure is interest-free as long as payments are made on time, which can make a significant electronics purchase feel more accessible.

However, the service isn't without potential friction. Reviews indicate that some users encounter frustrating login or account access issues, which can be problematic when trying to manage upcoming payments. There are also isolated reports of confusion regarding refund processes, where credits may not appear promptly on the original payment method. The approval for spending limits is based on initial factors and payment history, meaning the available amount for a big-ticket item may vary. For disciplined shoppers, it's a useful tool for budgeting, but the automatic withdrawals require careful cash flow management to avoid late fees, which are capped but can add up.