Apple says goodbye to these iPhones: Get to know the complete list of the so-called vintage ones

Apple classifies its models into two categories: vintage and obsolete. REUTERS/Michaela Rehle/File Photo

Apple classifies its old iPhones into two categories: “vintage” and “obsolete”“Vintage” models are those that have been in production for between five and seven years.

Once they turn seven, They are now considered “obsolete” and no longer receive hardware-related technical support. This means that users cannot get repairs at Apple stores or authorized resellers for these devices.

– iPhone 4 (8GB)

– iPhone 5

– iPhone 6

The iPhone X was the first model to not have a physical action button. REUTERS/Elijah Nouvelage/File Photo To match Special Report GOLD-PERU/SWISS

– iPhone SE

– iPhone 8 Red

– iPhone 8 Plus Red

– iPhone X

A product is considered vintage when Apple stopped distributing it for sale more than 5 and less than 7 years ago. This means that these products have been off the market long enough to be recognized for their historical value and quality, but not long enough to be considered antiques.

Vintage iPhone models are supported for two years from the time they are declared part of this group. REUTERS/Mike Segar/File Photo

These models continue to receive technical support for two years from the moment they become “vintage.” This service ends when the phone becomes “obsolete.”

Products are considered obsolete when Apple stopped distributing them for sale more than 7 years ago. At this time, the company is suspending all hardware services for obsolete products and service providers are unable to order parts for obsolete products.

– iPhone

– iPhone 3G (China continental) 8 GB

– iPhone 3G 8GB and 16GB

– iPhone 3GS (China continental) 16 GB, 32 GB

– iPhone 3GS (8 GB)

Older iPhones are losing hardware support at official retailers and retailers. REUTERS/Stephane Mahe/File Photo

– iPhone 3GS 16GB and 32GB

– iPhone 4 CDMA

– iPhone 4 CDMA (8 GB)

– iPhone 4 16GB, 32GB

– iPhone 4 GSM (8 GB), color negro

– iphone 4s

– iPhone 4S (8 GB)

– iPhone 5c

If an obsolete iPhone is damaged at the hardware level, it does not have official technical support. (Illustrative Image Infobae)

– iPhone 5s

– iPhone 6 Plus

– iPhone 6s (32 GB)

– iPhone 6s Plus (32 GB)

If an outdated iPhone suffers damage to a piece of hardware, users face some significant limitations. Apple and authorized resellers no longer offer technical support or repairs for obsolete devices.

In this case, viable options include turning to third-party repair services or considering purchasing a newer device that is compatible with the latest Apple updates and services.

The next generation of iPhone is expected to launch in September 2024. (X/Sonny Dickson)

Details regarding the upcoming iPhone 16 have leaked, including four different models: the standard iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus (or Slim), iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max (or iPhone 16 Ultra). They’re expected to have slightly larger displays than previous models, with sizes of 6.3 and 6.9 inches.

Additionally, Apple leaker Majin Bu mentions a new haptic button near the power button on all models. All iPhone 16 models would feature the same A18 processor for consistent performance.

A standout feature of the iPhone 16 Pro would be its new improved optical zoom, which would allow for up to 5x zoom, improving the device’s photography and video capabilities. These leaks offer an early look at what users can expect from Apple’s upcoming devices.

Apple is expected to launch the iPhone 16 in September 2024, following its tradition of unveiling new models on the second Tuesday of September. This annual event is widely anticipated by tech enthusiasts and consumers who eagerly await the latest innovations in mobile devices.

Apple’s iPhone Vintage and Obsolete Policy: Understanding the Implications

Apple maintains a strict lifecycle for its products, and iPhones are no exception. This lifecycle includes a stage when devices are classified as “vintage” and eventually “obsolete.” Understanding this policy is crucial for users who own older iPhones as it directly impacts their access to technical support and repairs.

Apple’s iPhone Vintage and Obsolete Definitions

The distinction between “vintage” and “obsolete” iPhones lies in their production and distribution timeline:

Vintage iPhones

• Definition: iPhones that were discontinued for sale between five and seven years ago.
• Support: Apple continues to provide hardware support for vintage iPhones for two years from the date they are classified as “vintage.” This means that users can still obtain repairs at Apple stores or authorized resellers during this period.

Obsolete iPhones

• Definition: iPhones that were discontinued for sale more than seven years ago.
• Support: Apple suspends all hardware support for obsolete iPhones. No repairs can be obtained from Apple stores or authorized resellers as service providers are unable to order parts.

List of Vintage and Obsolete iPhones

Here are the current lists of vintage and obsolete iPhone models, as of July 2024:

Vintage iPhones

• iPhone 4 (8GB)
• iPhone 5
• iPhone 6
• iPhone SE (1st generation)
• iPhone 8 Red
• iPhone 8 Plus Red
• iPhone X

Obsolete iPhones

• iPhone
• iPhone 3G (China continental) 8 GB
• iPhone 3G 8GB and 16GB
• iPhone 3GS (China continental) 16 GB, 32 GB
• iPhone 3GS (8 GB)
• iPhone 3GS 16GB and 32GB
• iPhone 4 CDMA
• iPhone 4 CDMA (8 GB)
• iPhone 4 16GB, 32GB
• iPhone 4 GSM (8 GB), color negro
• iPhone 4s
• iPhone 4S (8 GB)
• iPhone 5c
• iPhone 5s
• iPhone 6 Plus
• iPhone 6s (32 GB)
• iPhone 6s Plus (32 GB)

Implications of an Obsolete iPhone

Having an obsolete iPhone presents significant limitations:

• No Official Support: Apple and authorized resellers no longer offer repairs for obsolete iPhones. This leaves users without official paths to fix a damaged device.
• Limited Repair Options: Users must rely on third-party repair services. These may have varying reliability and trustworthiness.
• Inability to Access New Features: Obsolete iPhones are incompatible with the latest software updates, rendering them unable to benefit from new features and security enhancements.

The Future of iPhones: iPhone 16 Expectations

While older iPhones face limitations due to Apple’s lifecycle policy, the future of iPhones remains exciting with the anticipated release of the iPhone 16 in September 2024. Leaks have revealed several potential features of the new generation:

• Larger Displays: Four models are expected: standard iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus (or Slim), iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max (or iPhone 16 Ultra). These are rumored to have slightly larger displays than previous versions, with sizes ranging from 6.3 to 6.9 inches.
• Enhanced Camera System: The iPhone 16 Pro is expected to feature improved optical zoom, potentially allowing for up to 5x zoom. This enhancement might significantly boost photography and video capabilities.
• Consistent Performance: All iPhone 16 models are expected to be powered by the same A18 processor, promising robust performance across the lineup.
• Haptic Button: New haptic button near the power button on all models, replacing the physical ones, might add another way to interact with the device.

Staying Informed and Making Informed Decisions

Understanding Apple’s vintage and obsolete policies for iPhones empowers users to make informed decisions regarding their devices. Regularly reviewing the official list of vintage and obsolete models can help users anticipate potential challenges and plan their future iPhone upgrades. It’s also crucial to stay informed regarding the latest iPhone releases, particularly the anticipated iPhone 16, to assess whether an upgrade is desirable.