Apple has just announced that 12 of its Mac models are now considered either vintage or obsolete, impacting the repair services available for these devices. This means users with these models may face difficulties finding parts and repairs from Apple.
Three Macs, including the MacBook Air (Retina, 13-inch, 2018), MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2017, 2 Thunderbolt 3 ports), and MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2018, 4 Thunderbolt 3 ports), have been added to the vintage list. A product is classified as vintage by Apple after more than five years have passed since its last sale. While Apple Stores and authorized service providers won’t outright refuse to repair vintage Macs, the availability of repair parts depends on their current stock, as no new parts will be manufactured.
The obsolete list now includes nine Macs: the 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-inch, late 2015), iMac (Retina 4K, 21.5-inch, late 2015), and iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, late 2015). A product becomes obsolete after more than seven years have passed since its last sale. Generally, Apple Stores and authorized service providers don’t accept repair requests for obsolete products, although battery replacements might be available for an additional three years.
Apple tends to stick to these timelines fairly accurately. For instance, the standard iPhone 8 models were sold until 2020 and are therefore not yet on the vintage list. However, the special edition (RED) iPhone 8, only sold from April to September 2018, is already classified as vintage.
This practice of classifying devices as vintage and obsolete has sparked debate, particularly among those who advocate for better repairability. While it’s understandable that companies may not produce parts for discontinued products, some argue that any device in working condition should be eligible for repair.
If Apple chose to extend the repairability of its devices, it could emphasize the longevity of Macs and their ability to remain functional for extended periods, which is impressive.
If your Mac has been added to the vintage list and you wish to prolong its lifespan, it might be wise to get a battery replacement before it transitions to obsolete status. This proactive measure could help keep your Mac functioning for a bit longer.
