Apple updates its vintage and obsolete product list, marking three popular devices as no longer serviceable by Apple in most cases.
Apple has added three devices to its obsolete list: the 12-inch MacBook (2017), iPad (6th generation), and BeatsX. Obsolete means Apple won’t routinely service them and parts may become scarce. The MacBook 2017 was the last model in its line and was discontinued in 2019, though battery replacements may be possible for a while. If you own one of these, plan for potential repair challenges and consider an upgrade. Apple keeps updating this list, so check back if you’re unsure about your device’s status.
What this means for everyday users is simple: don’t rely on Apple for repairs forever; start budgeting for a replacement and explore third-party options if you’re determined to keep using older gear. For now, you’ll want to compare the cost and benefit of upgrading to a newer iPad or MacBook, or even a modern Beats alternative.
Apple is updating its public roster of vintage and obsolete products, and three familiar items are now on the obsolete list. The 12-inch MacBook (2017), iPad (6th generation) in both Wi-Fi and cellular models, and BeatsX headphones are considered obsolete by Apple. That designation typically means Apple will not repair or source parts for these devices going forward, though there are a few caveats to know.
In Apple’s world, a product becomes “obsolete” seven years after Apple last distributed it for sale. After that point, Apple Stores and Authorized Service Providers generally stop providing hardware service, and parts availability can be limited. That said, battery replacements for MacBooks may still be possible for up to 10 years after distribution ended, depending on parts availability.
What makes this notable is the 12-inch MacBook’s place in Apple history. The 2017 model was the final version of that line, and it was discontinued in 2019. Fans who loved the compact form factor or the audience it targeted may now find it harder to keep the device running at a repair shop or Apple Store.
The three entries are: the MacBook (Retina, 12-inch, 2017), iPad (6th generation), and BeatsX headphones. They join Apple’s long list of devices that are no longer stocked or serviced through official channels.
If you own any of these devices, you should not expect official parts or guaranteed repairs from Apple in the future. Battery work on the MacBook might still be possible for a while, but it isn’t guaranteed. For many people, that means considering a newer device or exploring third-party repair options, while keeping in mind those shops may also face parts constraints.
Apple maintains a public list of vintage and obsolete products, and updates it periodically. If you’re weighing upgrades, you can use this as a reminder to plan ahead for potential maintenance costs or unexpected downtime with older hardware.
Obsolete means Apple will generally stop servicing the device and parts may not be available, though there can be exceptions like limited battery service for MacBooks up to 10 years after distribution.
Parts availability is typically limited once a product is marked obsolete, and official servicing is usually halted.
If the device still works, weigh replacement costs and the potential for dwindling parts against the value of upgrading to newer hardware with current software support.
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