Apple updates ‘vintage’ list with inclusion of THESE devices: Here’s how it will impact certain users

Extending its obsolete and vintage products list, Apple has marked the iPhone XS Max (launched in 2018) and iPhone 6s Plus (launched in 2015) as ‘vintage’ gadgets. For context, Apple’s vintage list includes devices that have been there for more than five years. The inclusion of any device in the vintage list implies that there would be fewer chances to get those products repaired. 

The reshuffled vintage list now features the Apple Watch 2 with the ceramic casing, the iPhone XS Max (launched in 2018), and the iPhone 6s Plus (launched in 2015). 

Additionally, Apple has extended its "obsolete" list as well. A device is dubbed ‘obsolete’, when it remains in the market for at least seven years since being sold as a new product. The latest ‘obsolete’ list now includes aluminium and stainless-steel Apple Watch 2 models, as well as the iPhone 6s Plus with 32GB of storage. 

Notably, while ‘obsolete’ cannot be repaired, Apple or its authorised partners also can not sell parts of the old models. However, only a few MacBooks are eligible for battery replacement for up to 10 years. 

In other related developments, Apple is slated to launch the AirTags 2 model in 2025. It would be an upgrade of its AirTags unveiled four years ago. According to a report, the development of AirTags 2 is underway, and the device may be unveiled as early as 2025. It may sport a similar design to that of AirTags but is likely to receive significant upgrades. 

The AirTags 2 may come with a price increase, which can be attributed to the integration of some significant privacy-related and other upgrades. While the report does not explicitly mention the launch date, Apple might launch AirTags 2 alongside the iPhone SE or the iPhone 17 series later next year. Over the past few years, AirTags have proven to be quite useful.