Apple has recently updated its list of obsolete and vintage products, marking several beloved devices as outdated. This move affects a range of iPhones and iPods, with implications for their support and repair options. Here’s what you need to know about the latest classifications.
What Does ‘Obsolete’ and ‘Vintage’ Mean?
Apple designates products as “vintage” if they were last manufactured more than five but less than seven years ago. These devices can still receive hardware service from Apple or authorized service providers, but only if parts are available. Products are classified as “obsolete” if they were discontinued more than seven years ago. For these, Apple no longer provides any hardware service, and service providers cannot order parts for them.
Newly Classified Obsolete Devices
As of the latest update, the following iPhones have been added to the obsolete list:
- iPhone
- iPhone 3G (China mainland) 8GB
- iPhone 3G 8GB, 16GB
- iPhone 3GS (China mainland) 16GB, 32GB
- iPhone 3GS 8GB
- iPhone 4 CDMA, 8GB, 16GB, 32GB
- iPhone 4S 8GB
- iPhone 5C
- iPhone 6 Plus
These devices are no longer eligible for any hardware service at Apple’s retail stores or through Apple’s authorized service providers.
Newly Classified Vintage Devices
Several other devices have been moved to the vintage category. This includes:
- iPhone 4
- iPhone 5, 5S
- iPhone 6, 6S, 6S Plus
- iPhone SE (1st generation)
- iPhone 8 (PRODUCT)RED
- iPhone 8 Plus (PRODUCT)RED
- iPad Mini 4
Vintage products are those that were last available for sale more than five years ago but less than seven years ago. These devices may still be serviced by Apple, provided parts are available, but finding the necessary components could be challenging.
Implications for Users
For users of these devices, the obsolete classification means that it’s time to consider upgrading to a newer model if you haven’t already. While vintage devices might still be supported, the availability of repair parts can be a limiting factor. This transition underscores the importance of staying updated with the latest technology to ensure full support and optimal performance.
Apple’s classification system ensures that it can focus resources on supporting more recent models while gradually phasing out support for older devices. This is a common practice in the tech industry, aiming to provide users with the best possible experience on the latest hardware and software.
Apple’s recent update to its list of obsolete and vintage products highlights a range of iPhones and iPods that are no longer supported or are nearing the end of their support lifecycle. For users of these devices, it may be an opportune time to explore newer models to ensure continued support and service.
