More Apple Products Just Hit the ‘Obsolete’ List—What to Know
More Apple Products Just Hit the ‘Obsolete’ List—What to Know
https://www.newsweek.com/apple-adds-iphone-models-to-obsolete-list-2026-11692079
Publish Date: 2026-03-18 08:30:00
Source Domain: www.newsweek.com
Apple has added more devices to its growing list of obsolete products, a designation that means the end of official hardware support for certain older models.
The latest update includes two iPhone models that are no longer eligible for repairs or service through Apple Stores or authorized providers, according to a report by 9to5Mac.
Apple’s standard lifecycle policy gradually phases out aging devices as newer models enter the market.
Why it Matters
Apple’s classification of products as “obsolete” has direct consequences for users who continue to rely on older devices.
Once a product reaches this status, Apple no longer provides hardware service or replacement parts, making repairs significantly more difficult.
The policy encourages users to upgrade when their devices that are nearing the end of their support window.
Devices are typically considered “vintage” five years after they are last sold and “obsolete” after seven years, according to the company’s official support documentation.
What to Know
Apple’s latest update adds the iPhone 4 and iPhone 5 to its official list of obsolete products.
Both devices, originally released in 2010 and 2012 respectively, have now exceeded Apple’s seven-year support window.
As a result, they are no longer eligible for hardware service or repairs through Apple Stores or authorized providers, marking the final stage in their lifecycle under Apple’s support policies.
Apple Stores and authorized service providers are now unable to order parts or perform repairs.
Apple launched six new devices earlier this month, including the low-cost MacBook Neo, while discontinuing many more including the iPhone 16e.
What People Are Saying
Commentators on the Reddit’s r/Apple forum were nostalgic for the old phones.
“Left my iPhone 4 in the rain once. Still got $10 for it. Wish I had kept this milestone of industrial design,” one lamented.
“My first iPhone,” another person mused, adding, “One of ours fell down from a box of old tech in…
