Apple Declares Several Older MacBook Models "Vintage"

Apple has recently classified several older MacBook models as "vintage." This designation applies to devices that are more than five but less than seven years old since their initial release, a status now achieved by the 2018 MacBook Air and 2017 and 2018 MacBook Pro models.

Vintage Devices

Apple defines "vintage" products as those that are older than five years but less than seven years since their initial launch and sale. As a result, the 2018 MacBook Air and the 2017 and 2018 MacBook Pro models now meet the criteria for becoming "vintage."

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

"Vintage" devices are no longer eligible for macOS updates, except for the 2018 MacBook Pro, which still receives updates for macOS Sequoia (macOS 15).

For repairs, "vintage" devices can be serviced at Apple Stores and select Apple Authorized Service Providers for the next two years, but parts availability is limited due to their discontinued manufacturing.

Obsolete Devices

Apple also designates devices as "obsolete" if they are over seven years old since their initial release. These devices are no longer eligible for repairs at Apple Stores.

However, Apple will still replace batteries for "obsolete" MacBook devices for up to ten years after their launch and sale.

• MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2016, 4 Thunderbolt 3 Ports)
• MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2016, 2 Thunderbolt 3 Ports)
• MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2016)
• iMac (Retina 4K, 21.5-inch, Late 2015)
• iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2015)
• iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, Late 2015)
• MacBook Pro (Retina, 13-inch, Early 2015)
• MacBook Air (13-inch, Early 2015)
• MacBook (Retina, 12-inch, Early 2016)

What are the new "vintage" MacBook models?

Apple has recently added the 2018 MacBook Air and the 2017 and 2018 MacBook Pro models to their "vintage" list. This means these devices are no longer eligible for macOS updates, but can still be repaired at Apple Stores and select Apple Authorized Service Providers.

What criteria are used to classify a product as "vintage"?

According to Apple, a product is considered "vintage" if it's older than five years but less than seven years since its initial launch and sale.

What are the consequences of a MacBook being labeled "vintage"?

"Vintage" MacBooks are no longer eligible for macOS updates. However, they can still be serviced at Apple Stores and select Apple Authorized Service Providers for the next two years.

When will the "vintage" MacBook models become "obsolete"?

The "vintage" MacBooks will become "obsolete" after seven years from their initial launch and sale, which is in 2025.

What is the difference between "vintage" and "obsolete" products?

The main difference between "vintage" and "obsolete" products is that "vintage" products are still eligible for repairs for two years after becoming "vintage," while "obsolete" products are no longer eligible for repairs at Apple Stores.

Part Availability

It's crucial to note that parts availability for both "vintage" and "obsolete" devices is very limited. If you own a MacBook that falls into either category, considering upgrading to a newer model may be beneficial.