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Apple has added the last 12-inch MacBook, the sixth-generation iPad, and additional BeatsX colors to its list of obsolete products. This means that Apple will no longer provide hardware service for these devices. However, in the German version of the list, the MacBook and iPad are still listed under "Vintage.".
Apple maintains its classifications in a support document on services after the warranty expires. Since October 14, the US version has carried a new date and lists three products newly under "Obsolete." Just a few days ago, the first-generation Apple TV 4K moved to the vintage list.
The classification follows fixed timeframes. A product is considered vintage if Apple discontinued sales more than five and less than seven years ago. After more than seven years, it is considered discontinued.
Key Facts at a Glance
- The MacBook (Retina, 12-inch, 2017), the iPad (6th generation) with Wi-Fi and cellular connectivity, and five color variants of the BeatsX are now listed as obsolete.
- Apple and authorized service partners no longer offer hardware service for outdated products.
- With the 12-inch MacBook, a battery replacement is still possible depending on parts availability; Apple guarantees this for Mac laptops for up to ten years.
- The German version of the list is from October 9th and still lists MacBook and iPad as vintage.
These devices are new to the list
| Product | US list (October 14) | German list (as of October 9th) |
|---|---|---|
| MacBook (Retina, 12 inch, 2017) | obsolete | Vintage |
| iPad (6th generation) Wi-Fi | obsolete | Vintage |
| iPad (6th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular | obsolete | Vintage |
| BeatsX in five colors | obsolete | discontinued |
With the 2017 model, the entire 12-inch MacBook line is now obsolete; the 2015 and 2016 models were already on the list. Apple discontinued the device in 2019, and there is still no successor in this size.
What this means for owners
Apple discontinues hardware service for outdated products, and even authorized service partners are generally no longer able to order parts. An exception applies to Mac laptops: According to Apple, battery replacements are possible for up to ten years after the end of sales, provided parts are available. This means that at least the battery in the 12-inch MacBook is still covered.
The service is also valid for a longer period where legally required. Apple cites France as an example, where certain newer products receive service and spare parts for seven years from the date of last sale in France.
The German list is lagging behind
The German version of the document still lists the 2017 12-inch MacBook and the sixth-generation iPad in the vintage sections as of October 14th. The document is dated October 9th, reflecting the status before the most recent change. Apple, however, already lists the BeatsX as discontinued.
Anyone still needing to have one of these two devices repaired should therefore not rely on the German list. I expect Apple to release a German version soon, as Apple states that the deadlines apply worldwide. If in doubt, contact Apple Support to find out whether a store or service partner will still accept the device.
Apple last classified the 2018 MacBook Air and two MacBook Pro models as obsolete at the end of August. Are you still using a 12-inch MacBook or a sixth-generation iPad, and what do you do when the battery dies? Tell us in the comments how you handle it.
