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3w ago

Apple Marks 2013 Mac Pro Vintage, Obsoletes Key AirPort Devices

This update illustrates Apple’s lifecycle policy by shifting devices into repair-limited zones based on discontinuation timelines.

Also added to Apple’s vintage list this month are the 2019 iMacs, the 11-inch and 12.9-inch 2019 iPad Pro models.
The iconic "trash can" 2013 Mac Pro is officially vintage.
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Two years from now, the trash can Mac Pro will become "obsolete."

Overview

  • On July 11, Apple reclassified the 2013 “Trash Can” Mac Pro, 2019 MacBook Air, 2019 iMac, 2018 11-inch and 12.9-inch iPad Pros, and 128 GB iPhone 8 as vintage, and shifted second-generation AirPort Express, 2 TB/3 TB Time Capsules and the 802.11ac AirPort Extreme to obsolete status.
  • Under Apple’s policy, products become vintage five years after retail discontinuation and turn obsolete two years later.
  • Vintage devices remain eligible for repair at Apple Stores and authorized service providers if parts are available, whereas obsolete products receive no official parts or service.
  • The 2013 Mac Pro’s cylindrical design, discontinued in December 2019, is now emblematic of a divisive experiment hampered by thermal constraints and lack of internal upgrade space.
  • Only the first-generation AirPort Express remains on the vintage list, underscoring Apple’s complete exit from supporting most of its home-networking hardware.