Apple has updated its vintage and obsolete products list. The change affects several well-known devices, including the final 13-inch Intel-based MacBook Air, the Apple Watch Series 5, and the iPhone 11 Pro. The update marks another step away from older hardware as Apple continues its transition to newer platforms.
The most notable addition is the last Intel-powered MacBook Air. Apple launched this model in early 2020 and replaced it within the same year. Several Apple Watch Series 5 variants also moved to the vintage category, covering aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, ceramic, Nike, and Hermès editions.
According to Apple, a device becomes “vintage” once more than five years have passed since it was last sold. Apple and authorized service providers can still repair these products, but only if parts remain available.
Devices Added to the Vintage List
Apple added the following products to its vintage list:
- MacBook Air (Retina, 13-inch, 2020)
- iPhone 11 Pro
- iPhone 8 Plus 128GB
- iPad Air (3rd generation), Wi-Fi + Cellular
- Apple Watch Series 5 in multiple case sizes and materials
Other storage options of the iPhone 8 Plus were already listed as vintage. For the iPad Air 3, only the Wi-Fi plus Cellular model reached this status.
Why the Intel MacBook Air Matters
The final Intel MacBook Air arrived in March 2020. It shipped with Intel Core i3, i5, or i7 processors, depending on configuration. Apple sold it for only eight months. In November 2020, Apple introduced the M1 MacBook Air as part of its first Apple Silicon lineup, which quickly replaced Intel models across the Mac range.
That short lifespan makes this MacBook Air a clear dividing line between Intel Macs and Apple silicon Macs.
Vintage vs Obsolete Products
Apple defines a product as “obsolete” once seven years have passed since it was last sold. At that point, hardware service is usually unavailable. Mac laptops qualify for battery-only repairs for up to ten years after discontinuation, subject to parts availability.
As part of this update, Apple moved the special-edition Beats Solo3 Wireless headphones from the vintage list to the obsolete list. Apple released that model in 2018 to celebrate Mickey Mouse’s 90th anniversary.
For users still relying on these devices, support remains possible in limited cases. However, options will continue to narrow as parts disappear and Apple focuses on newer hardware.
