12 Mac Models Join Apple’s Vintage and Obsolete Lists

Apple has today updated its vintage and obsolete products lists, with three models being added to vintage and nine others transitioning to the obsolete category (via MacRumors).

Apple’s “vintage” label is applied to products that have not been sold for more than five years but are still eligible for some repairs, depending on the availability of parts. This allows Apple users to extend the life of their older devices for a limited time, though with restrictions.

The following three Mac models have been added to the vintage list today:

• MacBook Air (Retina, 13-inch, 2018)
• MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2017, 2 Thunderbolt 3 Ports)
• MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2018, 4 Thunderbolt 3 Ports)

While vintage products retain some repair options, devices in the obsolete category are generally no longer supported by Apple’s repair services. This designation applies to products that have been off the market for over seven years.

However, there are some exceptions, such as battery replacements for MacBooks, which may still be available for up to 10 years after a product’s discontinuation.

Apple has now moved nine additional Mac models to its obsolete list:

• 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)
• iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, Late 2015)

For owners of these devices, the transition to obsolete status means that repairs through Apple will generally no longer be possible. In most cases, third-party repair options will be the only remaining option for those who wish to continue using these Macs.