Apple recently added 12 Mac models to its "vintage" and "obsolete" product lists. This change affects some popular devices that were released several years ago and have since been removed from official sale. Below you will find out which models are affected and what this means for you as a user.
When Apple classifies a product as "vintage" or "obsolete," it means that there are certain limitations on repair and support. Devices considered "vintage" are older than five years, while "obsolete" products are more than seven years old. This classification affects the availability of spare parts and repair services.
New “Vintage” products
Apple has classified three Mac models as “vintage,” including:
- MacBook Air (Retina, 13-inch, 2018)
- MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2017, 2 Thunderbolt 3 ports)
- MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2018, 4 Thunderbolt 3 ports)
These devices can still be repaired as long as replacement parts are available. Apple offers service for up to two years after the rating.
New “obsolete” products
Nine other Mac models were classified as “obsolete.” These include:
- MacBook (Retina, 12-inch, Early 2016)
- MacBook Air (13-inch, early 2015)
- MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2016, 2 Thunderbolt 3 ports)
- MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2016, 4 Thunderbolt 3 ports)
- MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2016)
- MacBook Pro (Retina, 13-inch, Early 2015)
- iMac (21.5 inches, late 2015)
- iMac (Retina 4K, 21.5 inches, late 2015)
- iMac (Retina 5K, 27 inches, late 2015)
Apple and authorized service partners generally no longer repair outdated products. One exception is the battery replacement for MacBooks, which is possible up to ten years after the device was last sold.
What does this mean for you?
If you have one of the mentioned If you own a device, you should be prepared for support to be limited. With "vintage" products, you still have a certain amount of time to have repairs carried out. For "outdated" products, on the other hand, it will be difficult to obtain official spare parts. It might be worth considering upgrading to a more recent model, especially if you continue to use your device intensively.
What to do if your Apple device is considered vintage or obsolete?
Apple regularly updates its lists of "vintage" and "obsolete" products to make room for new technology. If your Mac is on one of these lists, you should consider how you want to continue to handle it - whether that's by repairing it, finding replacement parts, or upgrading. This will ensure you continue to get the most out of your Apple device. (Photo by Unsplash+ / Devin Nelson)
