Apple's iPhone SE, iPad Pro, Watch Series 4 now 'obsolete'
What's the story
Apple has updated its vintage and obsolete products list, adding five new devices to the latter category. The original iPhone SE, second-generation iPad Pro, and the Hermes and Nike models of Apple Watch Series 4 have been included in this latest update. The move comes as part of Apple's policy to classify products as obsolete after they have not been sold for over seven years.
Policy clarification
Apple's definition of obsolete products
According to Apple, "Apple discontinues all hardware service for obsolete products, and service providers cannot order parts for obsolete products." However, there is an exception for Mac laptops that may be eligible for an extended battery-only repair period of up to 10 years from when the product was last distributed for sale. This is subject to parts availability.
Device history
Discontinuation dates of the newly added obsolete devices
The original iPhone SE was discontinued in September 2018, with its successor coming in 2020. It stopped receiving updates after iOS 15. The Apple Watch Series 4, which debuted in 2018 as the first smartwatch to offer an electrocardiogram from the wrist, was discontinued in 2019. The second-generation iPad Pro was also added to this list, aligning with Apple's policy of classifying products as obsolete after they have not been sold for over seven years.
Obsolescence forecast
Apple's vintage product timeline and future implications
Apple marks products as vintage five years after they stop being sold, meaning current vintage products have less than two years before they turn obsolete. This could mean that more of your favorite Apple devices could be deemed obsolete sooner than you think. The company's policy on obsolescence and discontinuation of services for these products is strict, leaving users with limited options for repairs or replacements.