Do you remember your first iPad or that MacBook Air that accompanied you during your studies? Over time, even technologies that seem essential to us end up becoming memories. Discover how Apple manages this inevitable transition for its flagship products.
The 3 key facts not to miss
- The 13-inch MacBook Air from 2017 is now classified as “vintage,” which means it remains partially repairable.
- The iPad mini 4 and the 32 GB Apple TV HD are considered “obsolete” and no longer benefit from after-sales service.
- Apple distinguishes “vintage” and “obsolete” products based on their discontinuation date, at five and seven years respectively.
Apple product classification
Apple regularly updates its product classifications to reflect their age. Devices are classified as “vintage” if they have not been sold for more than five years. This means they can still be repaired, but only if the necessary components are available. On the other hand, “obsolete” products are those that have exceeded the seven-year mark since their discontinuation and no longer benefit from any after-sales service.
The case of the 13-inch MacBook Air from 2017
The 13-inch MacBook Air from 2017 has become a “vintage” device. This model is particularly significant because it represents the last version of the range before the 2018 redesign, which introduced the Retina display and a modernized design. For users of this model, it is still possible to carry out repairs, but these interventions now depend on the availability of spare parts.
The obsolescence of iPad mini 4 and Apple TV HD
The iPad mini 4 and the 32 GB version of the Apple TV HD are now classified as “obsolete.” These products, launched in 2015, can no longer be repaired, neither in-store nor by authorized providers. The iPad mini 4 was withdrawn from the market in 2019, and the Apple TV HD followed in October 2022, giving way to the new generation of Apple TV 4K.
Trends to watch in the lifecycle of technological products
With the rapid evolution of technologies, managing the product lifecycle is a constant challenge for manufacturers. Companies must find a balance between innovation and sustainability while meeting consumer expectations for products that remain relevant and functional. Classification policies like Apple’s are essential for navigating this ever-changing environment, and users must stay informed to make the best choices when purchasing new devices.