Which Macs Will Stop Working in 2024 and 2025? Complete List of Compatible Apple Products
- Some of Apple's best selling Macs are about to become part of ancient history.
- Apple’s pulling the plug on several beloved models—yours might be next!
- Don’t wait too long to fix that old Mac... Apple is moving on fast.
As we approach the end of 2024, Apple has officially moved several Mac models to its "vintage" and "obsolete" lists, signaling the end of support for some once-popular devices. This shift affects users who still own these older machines, meaning they will face more challenges getting repairs and maintenance. Below is a detailed look at the Macs that will stop working under Apple's support systems in the next couple of years.
Key Definitions: What Do "Vintage" and "Obsolete" Mean?
Before diving into the lists, it's important to understand Apple's terminology:
- Vintage: While these models may still be repairable, parts may be limited, and repairs are not guaranteed. The term "vintage" refers to devices that Apple stopped selling more than five years ago but less than seven years ago.
- Obsolete: Apple no longer offers any repair services for these models, except in some rare cases. Technically, the definition include products that Apple stopped selling more than seven years ago. You will still be able to get some services like for example battery replacements, which are usually available for up to 10 years after the device was sold.
List of Macs Being Moved to "Vintage" Status (2024-2025)
- MacBook Air (Retina, 13-inch, 2018)
- MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2017, 2 Thunderbolt 3 Ports)
- MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2018, 4 Thunderbolt 3 Ports)
These models, particularly from 2017 to 2018, have now crossed the five-year mark since their last sale. While they are still repairable in Apple Stores and authorized service centers, the availability of replacement parts may become more scarce as they edge closer to "obsolete" status.
List of Macs Declared "Obsolete" in 2024
- MacBook (Retina, 12-inch, Early 2016)
- MacBook Air (13-inch, Early 2015)
- MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2016, 2 Thunderbolt 3 Ports)
- MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2016, 4 Thunderbolt 3 Ports)
- MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2016)
- MacBook Pro (Retina, 13-inch, Early 2015)
- iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2015)
- iMac (Retina 4K, 21.5-inch, Late 2015)
- iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch, Late 2015)
These devices are no longer eligible for repairs through Apple, making it increasingly difficult to find replacement parts or service options, especially for older models like the 2016 MacBook Pro and late 2015 iMac. The Retina display models from these years, once hailed for their stunning visuals, are now consigned to Apple’s obsolete archives.
Photo via CNET // Apple's shift to the 'vintage' and 'obsolete' lists leaves older Mac models with limited repair options.
Implications for Users
Being classified as "obsolete" does not necessarily mean your device is entirely useless, but it does pose significant challenges if anything goes wrong. As Apple pulls support for these models, repair options outside of third-party services become extremely limited.
"Apple has always pushed the boundaries of innovation, but this often means leaving older devices behind sooner than some users would like," noted one tech expert. For many owners of obsolete Macs, this could mean relying on third-party repair shops, eBay hunts for parts, or even DIY solutions. In a world increasingly conscious of sustainability, Apple's speed in moving devices to obsolete status may feel premature for some.
Photo via Apple Inc. // Pictured: MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2018, 4 Thunderbolt 3 Ports). Users of vintage and obsolete Macs will need to turn to third-party services for repairs.
macOS Support: The Bigger Picture
It's not just hardware support that users need to worry about. Apple's software updates also leave older devices behind. For example, the latest macOS Sequoia requires a 2020 MacBook Air or a 2019 iMac to run smoothly. This leaves many older models, especially those made before 2017, stuck on previous versions of macOS, missing out on new features and security updates.
Photo via Apple Inc. // Some of the features of Apple's newest Mac operating system, macOS Sequoia. macOS Sequoia requires a newer Mac, leaving older devices unsupported for future software releases.
What Can You Do?
- If you own a vintage Mac: Act now to get any necessary repairs before parts become unavailable.
- If you own an obsolete Mac: Consider third-party repair services or start looking at upgrading your machine. While some users hold onto their Macs for as long as possible, it’s important to weigh the cost and hassle of maintaining an obsolete device versus upgrading to a newer model.
Looking Forward: What’s Next?
As Apple prepares to release new models, like the rumored M4 Mac mini and MacBook models, the company may be making room for these upcoming devices by clearing out older models from its repair and support queue. It's no surprise that Apple prioritizes innovation over the longevity of older models, but for users, this shift can be frustrating.
With so many Macs now transitioning to obsolete or vintage status, it’s more important than ever for users to keep track of their devices’ eligibility for repairs and support. In the meantime, Apple continues its march forward, while some users are left grappling with aging machines that are no longer officially supported.
Photo via Apple Inc. // Apple's latest line of Macs running macOS Sequoia.
In conclusion, while Apple's decisions often seem focused on pushing the latest and greatest, users of older Macs are left to navigate dwindling support. But as always, there are options, from third-party repairs to simply holding out until your trusty Mac gives up for good. For those impacted by these changes, staying informed and prepared is key to avoiding any nasty surprises.
For a full list of compatible iPhone models in 2024 and 2025, visit: Which iPhones Will Stop Working In 2024 and 2025? Complete List of Compatible Apple Products.
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