Apple updates the list of discontinued devices, also known as the vintage list, at regular intervals. Four MacBook Air devices, one MacBook Pro model and one iPod touch have now been classified as obsolete.
The list of discontinued Apple products has received six new additions today, including devices from 2013 and 2014. Accordingly, the service for the following models is ending:
- MacBook Air (11-inch, Mid 2013)
- MacBook Air (13-inch, Mid 2013)
- MacBook Air (11-inch, early 2014)
- MacBook Air (13-inch, Early 2014)
- MacBook Pro (13-inch, Mid 2014)
But it wasn't just the MacBook models that were affected. The fifth generation iPod touch was also officially classified as obsolete. The device was originally introduced on October 11, 2012 and was available in silver, pink, yellow, blue and PRODUCT(RED). It was replaced by its successor on July 15, 2015.
What does this mean for users?
This means that users can no longer get repairs from Apple or authorized service providers. In the event of a problem, they have to resort to independent service providers. Apart from a few exceptions, Apple's rule of thumb is to produce spare parts for devices for five years - but this period only starts when production of the respective device is discontinued. Only then is the customer forced to look for spare parts elsewhere. The official "Discontinued and Vintage Products" list can be found here. (Photo by UNUSUAL111 / Bigstockphoto)