Calling an iPhone old or outdated may sound harsh, but Apple does it elegantly with its "vintage" and "obsolete" categories. These terms aren't mere labels; they imply key differences in support, repairs, and software updates. Currently, there are 18 iPhone models that Apple has classified into these two categories, although that doesn't mean they've lost all functionality. Understanding what each category entails helps you know what to expect if you're still using one of these devices and what maintenance options you have.
Apple defines vintage iPhones as those models that stopped being officially sold more than five years ago, but less than seven. At this stage, the device can still be repaired if parts are available, and it may even receive software updates, although not always the latest ones. For example, models like the iPhone 7 Plus and some versions of the iPhone 8 have recently entered this list. Obsolete iPhones, on the other hand, are those that have not been on sale for more than seven years. For these, Apple no longer offers parts for official repairs, so the only alternative is recycling them or going to unauthorized repair shops that use unofficial spare parts. Furthermore, these devices do not receive full iOS updates, although they may receive occasional security patches.
By 2025, the list of obsolete iPhones includes iconic models such as the original iPhone from 2007, the iPhone 3G, 3GS, 4, 4s, 5, 5c, 5s, 6, 6 Plus, 6s, and 6s Plus. Meanwhile, the vintage list has been expanded with the first-generation iPhone SE, iPhone 7 Plus, iPhone 8 (64GB and 256GB), iPhone 8 Plus (PRODUCT)RED, iPhone X, and iPhone XS Max. It's important to note that some versions, such as the 8GB iPhone 128, are not yet classified as vintage because they were sold for longer.
In addition to iPhones, Apple classifies other devices such as iPads, Apple Watch, Apple TV, and AirPods as vintage or obsolete, following similar criteria based on the time since their last official sale. For example, the iPad Air 2 and iPad mini 2 have become obsolete, while several early-generation Apple Watch models are on the vintage list. This marks a natural cycle in the life of Apple products, where constant innovation forces the abandonment of devices that, while still functional, no longer have official support or full updates.
Ultimately, Just because an iPhone is classified as vintage or obsolete doesn't mean it has suddenly stopped working, but rather that Apple is limiting its technical support and updates. This invites users to consider whether they want to continue using them with certain limitations or consider upgrading. In the meantime, these devices can remain a valid tool for many daily tasks, always with the awareness that repairing and updating them will become increasingly complicated. Thus, Apple strikes a balance between maintaining functionality and moving toward more modern technologies, respectfully marking the passage of time on its iconic devices.