Apple has added this Mac laptop and iPad to its ‘obsolete’ list: What this means for users

Apple has officially added the 13-inch MacBook Air (2017) and iPad mini 4 to its list of obsolete and vintage products, marking the end of official service support for these widely used devices. As of Match 31, 2026, the iPad mini 4 is now classified as obsolete, while the 2017 MacBook Air is considered vintage. This means that the MacBook Air users will not able able to receive hardware repairs for the iPad mini 4, and MacBook Air will only be offered if parts are still available. Apple explains that “Products are considered obsolete when Apple stopped distributing them for sale more than 7 years ago.” In other words, the device tagged as obsolete will not be eligible for any updates. In addition, Apple discontinues all hardware service for obsolete products, and service providers cannot order parts for obsolete products. Mac laptops may be eligible for an extended battery-only repair period for up to 10 years from when the product was last distributed for sale, subject to parts availability.On the other hand, the products are considered vintage when Apple stopped distributing them for sale more than 5 and less than 7 years ago.Owners of these devices should be aware of the following:Apple’s decision aligns with its standard product lifecycle policy and comes amid a broader refresh of its hardware lineup, including new iPads and MacBooks launched in March 2026.