Apple recently updated its vintage product list to include the iPhone 11 Pro, officially categorizing it as an antique device. This move surprised many users as the iPhone 11 Pro still supports the latest iOS 26 update, indicating continued software relevance despite its vintage status.
Apple’s classification distinguishes between “vintage” (antique) and “obsolete” products based on their market availability and age. A product is marked vintage if it has not been sold for more than five years but can still receive limited repair services if replacement parts exist.
iPhone 11 Pro Joins Apple’s Vintage Category
In the recent update, Apple added 16 devices to its vintage roster, including the iPhone 11 Pro. Its sibling, the iPhone 11 Pro Max, was already designated vintage in September 2025. Introduced in 2019, the iPhone 11 Pro was notable for pioneering the triple-camera array on the back—a distinctive design later nicknamed the “boba camera.” This feature remains a hallmark of Apple’s Pro models.
Despite its age, the iPhone 11 Pro continues to run Apple’s latest iOS 26, making it the oldest iPhone capable of running this newest operating system. This highlights that vintage status does not equate to loss of core functionality or software support from Apple.
Vintage Status and Apple’s Support Policy
Apple defines vintage devices as those discontinued for over five years but less than seven years. These devices may still be eligible for repair services directly through Apple or authorized service providers if parts are available. This contrasts with the “obsolete” category, where such repair options are typically unavailable.
A notable vintage addition is the 13-inch MacBook Air Retina (2020), the last Intel-based MacBook Air before Apple transitioned fully to its own Apple Silicon processors. Released in March 2020, this MacBook model was sold for less than eight months before being replaced by the MacBook Air M1 in November 2020, marking Apple’s shift in processor architecture.
List of Newly Classified Vintage Apple Products
Besides the iPhone 11 Pro and MacBook Air 2020, the following devices have been added as vintage:
- iPhone 8 Plus 128GB
- iPad Air 3 Wi-Fi + Cellular
- Apple Watch Series 5 (various models and finishes: Aluminum, Ceramic, Hermes, Nike, Stainless Steel, Titanium in 40mm and 44mm sizes)
It is important to note that for some devices like the iPhone 8 Plus, only specific storage variants (128GB) have become vintage, while others achieved this status earlier.
Devices Moving to Obsolete Status
On the other hand, Apple has also shifted some products to the obsolete category. The Beats Solo3 Wireless Mickey Mouse edition, launched in 2018 as a special anniversary release, no longer receives official repair services due to unavailable replacement parts. Apple classifies products as obsolete after seven years of discontinuation.
Special Battery Service Extension for MacBooks
Apple provides a unique exception for MacBook laptops, allowing battery replacement services for up to 10 years after production ends, provided components remain in stock. This extended support underscores Apple’s commitment to maintaining MacBook usability longer than other product types.
Implications for Users
The iPhone 11 Pro’s vintage status does not diminish its practical value. It remains fully functional, regularly supported with updates, and viable for everyday use. This status helps customers understand product lifecycle stages without implying immediate obsolescence.
Ultimately, Apple’s vintage category reflects a product’s market age rather than its capability. The iPhone 11 Pro exemplifies how Apple continues backing older devices, offering reassurance to users about long-term device support and enabling informed decisions before upgrading.
