The iPhone 6 Plus was a game changer for Apple back in 2014. But it’s riding off into the sunset now that it’s been added to Apple’s list of vintage products, limiting its repair options.
And the iPad 4 from 2012 is now officially obsolete.
iPhone 6 Plus is now vintage
Apple devices are considered vintage five years after they were last manufactured. With this designation, they can still get serviced by Apple and authorized service providers, but that’s “subject to parts availability,” according to Apple.
The list of vintage models now includes the iPhone 6 Plus. This handset a huge deal back in the day, as it was Apple’s first handset with a 5.5-inch screen. It sold very, very well. But that was over seven years ago.
Although it’s from 2014, Apple released iOS 12.5.5 for the 6 Plus in September 2021. This is a strongly recommended security patch.
Note that the smaller iPhone 6 is not on the vintage list. It stayed in Apple’s lineup longer than its big brother.
And the iPad 4 goes obsolete
The iPad 4 took an even bigger step, moving to the obsolete list. This happens to all Apple devices seven years after were last manufactured, and it’s the end of the line for authorized repairs. “Apple has discontinued all hardware service for obsolete products. Service providers cannot order parts for obsolete products,” notes the Mac maker.
While being designated obsolete doesn’t make the iPad 4 into junk, it is a ten-year-old device that no longer receives security updates from Apple. Use with caution.
