Apple Updates Vintage and Obsolete Product Lists: Check the Details

iPhone XS Max Declared Vintage, Apple Watch Series 2 Now Obsolete

Apple has updated its classification of products, categorizing the iPhone XS Max as vintage and the Apple Watch Series 2 as obsolete. These designations impact the repairability and availability of replacement parts for these devices. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the newly added devices and what these classifications mean for users.

Newly Categorized Apple Products

Vintage Products

iPhone XS Max

iPhone 6s Plus

Obsolete Products

Apple Watch Series 2, Aluminum (2nd Gen), 38mm

Apple Watch Series 2, Aluminum (2nd Gen), 42mm

Apple Watch Series 2, Stainless Steel (2nd Gen), 38mm

Apple Watch Series 2, Stainless Steel (2nd Gen), 42mm

What Does This Mean for Users?

Apple classifies devices as:

Vintage: Discontinued more than five but less than seven years ago.

Obsolete: Discontinued more than seven years ago.

According to Apple's support page, service and parts for all products are available for at least five years after discontinuation, with possible extensions up to seven years in certain regions.

Key Implications:

Vintage Devices: May still qualify for repairs and parts, depending on regional availability.

Obsolete Devices: Service and parts are no longer provided by Apple globally.

Exceptions:

Mac laptops may qualify for battery-only repairs for up to 10 years, depending on parts availability.

Notable Observations

Apple determines a product’s classification based on its last distribution date, not its launch date. For instance:

iPhone 6s Plus (launched in 2015)

iPhone XS Max (launched in 2018)

Both are now classified as vintage due to their respective last sale dates.

Stay updated on the latest tech classifications and what they mean for your devices.