Apple's smallest computer becomes obsolete

Apple puts the 11-inch Macbook Air on the obsolete device list. Photo: iStuff .

Apple has added three Mac models to its obsolete product list, including the 11-inch MacBook Air, the tech giant's last small-screen laptop.

The three new MacBook models listed are the MacBook Air (11-inch, Early 2015), MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2017), and MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2017). According to Apple's policy, a product is considered obsolete after more than seven years from the date of its discontinuation. Apple Stores and authorized service providers typically do not repair these devices, with the exception of some battery replacements, depending on the availability of parts.

The 11-inch MacBook Air was first introduced in 2010 and was known as an ultra-portable laptop aimed at users who needed high mobility. However, Apple discontinued the model in October 2016, shortly after introducing the first generation MacBook Pro with Touch Bar. However, the 11-inch MacBook Air continued to be sold through some retail channels until 2018.

Putting the smallest MacBook Air on the obsolete list also marks a clear change in Apple's product strategy. Currently, the MacBook Air line only has two screen versions: 13.6 inches and 15.3 inches. Insiders believe that Apple is developing a new 12.9-inch MacBook model, which may use the A18 Pro chip similar to the iPhone 16 Pro, to meet the demand for a compact but powerful device.

The two 2017 MacBook Pro models listed as obsolete were once important products in Apple's catalog, as they were the first generation to adopt the Thunderbolt 3 connection port. However, these devices are no longer part of the iPhone maker's long-term support plan.

In addition to the Mac list, Apple has also added the iPhone 8 Plus (64GB and 256GB) to the “legacy” list. Authorized service providers and stores can continue to repair these products until they are officially obsolete in about two years.

The iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus were announced by Apple in September 2017, at the same time as the iPhone X, which marked the era of edge-to-edge screen design and Face ID. While the iPhone X attracted a lot of attention, the iPhone 8 and 8 Plus still maintained the traditional design with a physical Home button and Touch ID, becoming the choice for users who want stability.

Apple’s list of outdated and vintage models may shed some light on how the company maintains its innovation cycle and pushes users toward newer models. With MacBooks, the current trend is clearly toward larger screen sizes, higher performance, and a focus on Apple Silicon chips instead of Intel chips like in the past.

Source: https://znews.vn/loat-may-mac-va-iphone-bi-dua-vao-danh-sach-loi-thoi-post1582067.html