May 25, 2025, 1:29 pm | Read time: 2 minutes
Apple has added several older iPhone models to its official vintage list. For users of these devices, this means limitations on repair services and the availability of replacement parts. This also affects models that previously received occasional security updates.
Two iPhones will soon be added to Apple’s vintage list. This means they belong to a group of devices whose sales were discontinued more than five years ago. Additionally, two iPads have been classified as obsolete. The decision directly impacts repair options and services. While repairs for vintage products are only carried out to a limited extent, they are completely unavailable for obsolete devices.
These iPhones Are Now Considered Vintage
New to Apple’s vintage list are the iPhone 7 Plus, the iPhone 8 with 64 and 256 gigabytes of storage, and the iPhone 8 and 8 Plus in (Product) Red. These models were removed from the official Apple Store several years ago. Notably, the iPhone 8 was still available as an entry-level device until April 2020.
For these devices, it will become increasingly difficult to get repairs in the event of a defect. Although Apple often still stocks spare parts for vintage devices, they no longer produce them. This means repairs can only be carried out if the necessary parts are available.
Additionally, the company has reclassified two iPad models from “vintage” to “obsolete.” This affects the iPad Air 2 and the iPad mini 2.
The Difference Between Vintage and Obsolete
Apple distinguishes between two categories for discontinued devices: vintage and obsolete. Products on the vintage list have not been sold for at least five years, while obsolete devices have not been officially offered for over seven years. For the latter, Apple no longer provides any repair or service options. With vintage products, users might still be able to get a repair if the necessary spare parts are in stock.
Apple stamps out popular iPhones for good
Apple stops selling adapters and removes important iPhone function
Apple could soon remove several devices from its store
Which iPhone Will Be Next on the Vintage List?
Although the iPhone 7 is not yet on the vintage list, support for new iOS versions ended with iOS 16. However, Apple continues to provide security updates. The inclusion of the iPhone 7 on the vintage list seems to be only a matter of time. Once this happens, repair options for this model will also be significantly limited. Users of older iPhones should, therefore, consider upgrading to newer devices early to avoid being left without support in case of a defect.