Apple Declares Older MacBook Models Vintage and Obsolete: What It Means for You

Apple regularly updates its list of vintage and obsolete products, and recently, several older MacBook models have been added to this list. This designation has important implications for future repairs, potentially affecting the availability of spare parts and service options. Understanding the difference between 'vintage' and 'obsolete' is key for anyone owning these models.

Vintage Devices

Apple considers a device vintage when it has been discontinued for sale for more than 5 years but less than 7 years. While Apple still provides repairs for vintage devices through Apple Store or authorized service providers, these services are only available for a limited time, generally up to two years from the date the device is declared vintage. Repairs are only possible if Apple still has parts available for the specific model.

Here are the MacBook models that have recently been declared vintage:

MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2018, 4 Thunderbolt 3 Ports)

MacBook Air (Retina, 13-inch, 2018)

MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2017, 2 Thunderbolt 3 Ports)

Obsolete Devices

Apple considers a device obsolete when it has been discontinued for sale for more than 7 years. Neither Apple nor authorized service providers will provide repair services for obsolete devices. However, Apple may offer battery replacements for up to 10 years after the device was last distributed.

The following MacBook models have been declared obsolete:

MacBook (Retina, 12-inch, Early 2016)

iMac (Retina 4K, 21.5-inch, Late 2015)

MacBook Air (13-inch, Early 2015)

MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2016, 2 Thunderbolt 3 Ports)

MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2016, 4 Thunderbolt 3 Ports)

iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2015)

MacBook Pro (Retina, 13-inch, Early 2015)

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

MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2016)

What MacBook models are no longer supported by Apple for repairs?

The following MacBook models have been declared obsolete by Apple, meaning they are no longer supported for repairs:

MacBook (Retina, 12-inch, Early 2016)

iMac (Retina 4K, 21.5-inch, Late 2015)

MacBook Air (13-inch, Early 2015)

MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2016, 2 Thunderbolt 3 Ports)

MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2016, 4 Thunderbolt 3 Ports)

iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2015)

MacBook Pro (Retina, 13-inch, Early 2015)

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

MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2016)

What are the criteria for a device to be considered vintage by Apple?

Apple considers a device vintage when it has been discontinued for sale for more than 5 years but less than 7 years.

How long will Apple provide repair services for vintage devices?

Apple will generally provide repair services for vintage devices for up to two years from the date the device is declared vintage. However, this is only possible if parts are still available for the specific model.

What MacBook models were recently declared vintage?

The following MacBook models were recently declared vintage:

MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2018, 4 Thunderbolt 3 Ports)

MacBook Air (Retina, 13-inch, 2018)

MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2017, 2 Thunderbolt 3 Ports)

What are some options for users with vintage or obsolete MacBooks?

Users with vintage or obsolete MacBooks may consider upgrading to a newer model or having their device serviced soon before parts become unavailable.

Plan for the Future

If you are using any of these older MacBook models, it's wise to consider upgrading to a newer model or having your device serviced soon before parts become unavailable. This proactive approach can help ensure continued functionality and avoid potential future headaches when repairs are no longer feasible.