Apple included the prior Intel-based MacBook Air, Apple Watch Series 5, and iPhone 11 Pro on its vintage list as of December 31, 2025. This revision changes the eligibility of repair and indicates a tightening of the timeframe for guaranteed parts and services of these models.
Apple Vintage List
Apple added a number of new late 2019 and 2020 models to its list of older and obsolete products on December 31. MacBook Air Retina 13-inch 2020 is the last Intel-based MacBook Air that was shipped. There are also Apple Watch Series 5 in all the finishes, and iPhone 11 Pro. The company also changed the status of some iPhone 8 Plus configurations and cellular iPad Air 3 models.
What Vintage Means
According to Apple, a product is considered vintage after five years since it was sold the last time. Vintage status indicates that Apple Stores and authorized service providers can continue to repair still, but only when parts are available. Apple typically moves products to obsolete status after seven years, at which point most repairs end. Mac notebooks can remain eligible for battery-only replacements for up to ten years from the last sale, subject to parts availability. Vintage status does not stop a device from working or block activation or iCloud use.
What Owners Must Do
Check device eligibility now. Back up data. Repair the plan in a jiffy when the parts are still in stock. It is better to replace the battery sooner rather than later in case of an important device in everyday life. Monitor Apple service notices since the time to transition to the obsolete depends upon the number of units left in stock, not an absolute calendar date.
Quick Advice for Owners
Make a backup of your device now. Check Apple support to see what repairs remain available. In case there is a chance that a battery change or a screen repair is needed, request a price and book the job. Store receipts and warranty or repair dates. Be creative about dealing with the change instead of responding to it by shutting down. Security updates on older systems are still provided whenever necessary by Apple. A device labeled vintage can keep running for many years, provided the owner is ready to manage repairs and choices. The move to vintage is administrative. It matters most when parts run out.
