The lifespan of most gadgets is — relatively speaking — rather limited. Apple has a different policy for its “older” products. What it does is it categorizes into two categories: vintage products and obsolete products. Here we explain what exactly Apple Vintage and Obsolete products are and what it means:
What are Vintage Apple products?
A Vintage Apple product is a product that does not receive regular software products. A remarkable feature on the iPhone, iPad or Mac is that it continues to receive software updates for at least five years. But a Vintage product cannot receive updates, nor does Apple promise any repairs or service for these products. On its support page, Apple explains, “Products are considered vintage when Apple stopped distributing them for sale more than 5 years ago and less than 7 years ago.” This does not mean that the device will stop working, it is just that the shelf life is still denied when a user does not receive regular updates.
What are obsolete Apple products?
Although the word obsolete might seem a bit definitive, Apple explains that “products are considered obsolete when Apple stopped distributing them for sale over 7 years ago.” In other words, you don’t get any updates, and on top of that, Apple won’t repair or fix them at all. In fact, even service providers cannot order parts for obsolete products. So any product that was launched around 2013 or 2014 is likely to be – or will be sooner rather than later – on obsolete products.
Does Apple make exceptions for Vintage and Obsolete products?
In all likelihood, Apple is pretty strict about this and very few exceptions are made. However, some do exist. For example, Mac notebooks may be eligible for an extended battery-only repair period up to 10 years from the last sale of the product. However, it depends on availability.
Which products belong to the Vintage and Obsolete categories?
Almost all Apple products – from the iPhone to the Apple Watch – can be found on the list. For example, the iPhone 6 Plus was put on the Vintage list in December 2021. Similarly, the fourth generation iPad 2 which was launched in 2012 went to the Obsolete list. You’ll find many older MacBook models on the list. The first-generation Apple Watch is also on the Vintage product list. Apple regularly updates the list on one of its support pages on the company’s official website.
