By Apple Vintage and Obsolete Products List Sees Major Update in 2025
Apple has once again revised its Vintage and Obsolete Products list, officially marking more of its iconic devices as no longer eligible for standard support. This latest update, made in May 2025, impacts a range of popular products, including two iPhone models and two iPads, and follows the company’s established timeline for phasing out device support.
What Are Apple Vintage and Obsolete Products?
Understanding the terms “vintage” and “obsolete” is essential to grasp the significance of these updates. According to Apple’s official support documentation:
- Vintage products are those that Apple stopped distributing for sale more than 5 years and less than 7 years ago.
- Obsolete products are those that Apple stopped distributing for sale over 7 years ago.
For vintage products, Apple may still offer limited support and repair services, subject to parts availability. However, once a product is declared obsolete, all official hardware services from Apple and Apple Authorized Service Providers cease, and parts are no longer available—except in rare cases like extended battery-only repair for certain Mac laptops.
iPhone 7 Plus and Select iPhone 8 Models Now Vintage
As part of the recent update, Apple has moved the iPhone 7 Plus and select models of the iPhone 8 to the vintage category. This decision affects:
- iPhone 7 Plus (all variants)
- iPhone 8 (64GB and 256GB models)
It’s worth noting that the (PRODUCT) RED version of the iPhone 8 was already included in the vintage list. However, the 128GB iPhone 8 model is not yet vintage, as it remained on sale for a longer time compared to the other variants.
These updates mean that owners of these iPhone models may still be able to get hardware repairs, but support is not guaranteed and is increasingly limited by parts availability.
iPad Air 2 and iPad mini 2 Declared Obsolete
In addition to the iPhone changes, Apple has also shifted two older iPads to its obsolete products list:
- iPad Air 2
- iPad mini 2
The move means Apple no longer supports these devices in any capacity, and service providers will be unable to order replacement parts. These iPads were once top picks for users seeking portable yet powerful tablets, but they have now officially reached the end of their lifecycle.
Apple Watch Series 4 Also Recently Added to Vintage List
Earlier this year, Apple also added the Apple Watch Series 4 to its public vintage list. This includes:
- 40mm and 44mm models
- Aluminum and Stainless Steel variants
Launched in 2018, the Apple Watch Series 4 introduced a redesign and key features like the ECG app. Now that it’s considered vintage, support options are more limited, and users should be aware that parts may not be readily available for future repairs.
What This Means for Apple Device Owners
If your device has been added to Apple’s vintage or obsolete list, here’s what you should do:
- Back up your data regularly in case you need to switch to a newer device.
- Check Apple’s website or contact support to see if your device is still eligible for limited repairs.
- Plan for an upgrade, especially if you rely on your device for daily productivity.
Apple’s Long-Term Support Policy
Apple’s approach to device longevity is more structured than many other tech companies. While some manufacturers stop supporting devices within 3–4 years, Apple offers:
- Up to 7 years of support for most devices (vintage period included)
- Battery-only repairs for some Mac models up to 10 years, depending on parts
This strategy ensures users get extended value from their purchases, but it also underscores the importance of staying informed about support changes.
Conclusion: Keep Track of Apple’s Support Timeline
The update to Apple’s vintage and obsolete products list is a reminder that even the most beloved devices eventually reach the end of their support lifespan. With the iPhone 7 Plus, iPhone 8 (64GB & 256GB), iPad Air 2, and iPad mini 2 now officially phased out, users should begin planning for future upgrades while taking advantage of any remaining repair opportunities.
