Apple Marks Three Popular MacBook Models Obsolete (What Users Need to Know in 2025)

Apple just added three long-running MacBook models to its obsolete list. The 11-inch MacBook Air from early 2015 and both 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Pro models from 2017 are now fully unsupported. For owners, this means Apple and its authorized techs will no longer fix these devices or offer official replacement parts, no matter the issue.

This announcement makes a big impact on anyone still using these popular laptops day-to-day. Suddenly, if something breaks, you’re out of luck through official channels. Here’s what this change means, why Apple made this move, and what steps you can take to keep your MacBook going or plan your next upgrade.

Understanding Apple’s Obsolete Classification

When Apple places a device on its obsolete list, it signals the final step in the company’s official product life cycle. This change isn’t just a tech buzzword—it directly affects your ability to repair, maintain, or get help for your MacBook or any Apple device. Below, we’ll break down what “obsolete” means, how Apple gets there, and what you lose when that label applies to your device.

Definition and Criteria

Apple’s definition of “obsolete” rests on a clear, strict timeline. According to Apple’s support guidelines, a product becomes obsolete when Apple hasn’t sold it for more than seven years. At this point, neither Apple nor its approved repair partners provide hardware support of any kind, including repairs or replacement parts.

There’s a key freight in these rules:

• Seven-Year Cutoff: After seven years from the last time Apple sold that product (not just when it first launched), the device is stamped obsolete.
• No Part Availability: Official service providers lose the ability to order genuine replacement parts for obsolete products. Even common repairs—like screens or batteries—are cut off.
• This seven-year rule holds firm across iPhones, Macs, iPads, and even Apple Watches. There are rare exceptions for specific regions with extended legal requirements, but for most users, seven years is the hard stop.

Vintage vs Obsolete

Apple draws a fine line between “vintage” and “obsolete,” each with major differences in how much help you can get for your device.

Here’s a simple table to clarify:

Status	Years After Sale Ends	Hardware Service	Software Updates*	Example Devices
Current	0–5 years	Full support	Full	Latest MacBook Pro
Vintage	5–7 years	Limited (if parts exist)	Maybe	2017 MacBook Pro (before June 2025)
Obsolete	Over 7 years	None	None	2015 MacBook Air (now)

*Software update support depends on other factors like OS compatibility but is often restricted as devices age.

Vintage status applies if Apple stopped selling a product more than five but less than seven years ago. Vintage devices may be eligible for repairs, but only if Apple or a service provider has the required parts in stock. Once the parts run out, support quietly evaporates. For example:

• A 2017 MacBook Pro moved to vintage status in mid-2024, so you might still find a replacement battery or trackpad if parts are on hand.
• Once it crosses the seven-year mark in mid-2025, it becomes obsolete, and official hardware service stops completely.

Obsolete means just that—no more repairs, no matter how simple or urgent. You can’t get a screen fixed, a battery changed, or even pay for Apple to pull it apart and look for repairs.

Service Implications

Obsolete status isn’t just a footnote. When your MacBook or iPhone crosses this seven-year threshold, you lose access to key services from Apple and its partners.

Here’s what disappears:

• Hardware Repairs: No service for issues big or small. Broken screen, damaged keyboard, logic board failure—all off the table.
• Official Battery Replacements: Out-of-warranty battery swaps go away entirely, even if you’re willing to pay.
• Genuine Parts Access: Authorized providers can’t order or use official Apple parts for these models.
• Software Updates Linked to Hardware: While software upgrades typically fade out sooner than hardware support, some updates (like firmware or security fixes tied to hardware repairs) stop entirely.
• Diagnostic Support: Apple will not even run diagnostic checks in-store for obsolete products.

Some third-party shops might offer repairs using non-Apple parts, but quality, reliability, and compatibility aren’t guaranteed.

For any user still relying on an affected device, this change ups the stakes. The move to “obsolete” is like a closed door: you’re officially on your own when something breaks.

The Three Devices Declared Obsolete

Apple’s recent update puts these three MacBooks on the obsolete list: the 11‑inch MacBook Air (2015), 13‑inch MacBook Pro (2017), and 15‑inch MacBook Pro (2017). Each of these laptops held a clear spot in Apple’s lineup, appealing to different groups for their design, features, and reliability. Now, with support officially closed, it’s clear these devices have crossed Apple’s seven-year services threshold. Here’s a look at what made each model a staple—and why they’re now off Apple’s support grid.

11‑inch MacBook Air (2015)

The last 11-inch MacBook Air brought a slim, lightweight feel to the Mac lineup. Its classic wedge shape, aluminum build, and compact footprint made it a favorite for people who needed real portability—think students, travelers, and commuters.

Released in early 2015, this MacBook Air ran on Intel Core i5 or i7 processors, paired with 4 or 8GB of RAM and fast flash storage. At launch, pricing started around $899, positioning it as Apple’s most affordable laptop. Key features included:

• An 11.6-inch 1366×768 display that looked crisp at this size
• Two USB 3 ports, Thunderbolt 2, MagSafe 2 charging, and even a full-size SD card slot (on the 13-inch sibling)
• A no-nonsense keyboard and large trackpad

This model found its rhythm with people who valued size and weight above all else. It was also popular in education and with folks who didn’t want to spend for a Pro. Discontinued in 2016 and then left on reseller shelves for a short time, any remaining units are now well past Apple’s seven-year cutoff. Genuine parts, like batteries or screens, are no longer kept in stock. Even if you’re still traveling light with this tiny laptop, every repair is now a DIY job or up to third-party shops.

13‑inch MacBook Pro (2017)

When Apple launched the 13-inch MacBook Pro in 2017, it marked a turning point for the lineup. This was one of the first MacBook Pros to feature the Retina display—bright, sharp, and easy on the eyes. It also introduced the Touch Bar on certain configurations, bringing touch controls to the top row of the keyboard.

This model landed just below the 15-inch Pro in performance and started at $1,299. Key hardware highlights included:

• 13.3-inch Retina display with 2560×1600 resolution
• Dual- or quad-core Intel Core i5 or i7 CPUs
• Fast SSD storage, up to 16GB of RAM (rare for this class at the time)
• Four Thunderbolt 3/USB-C ports

The 2017 13-inch Pro worked well for creators, students, and anyone needing power in a device that could still slip into any backpack. As the seven-year window closed, Apple dropped it from official support. The battery, screen, and logic board can’t be fixed by Apple or its certified shops anymore. If you used the Touch Bar every day or relied on USB-C everywhere, this support loss feels like the end of an era for mid-tier Mac power.

15‑inch MacBook Pro (2017)

Apple’s 2017 15-inch MacBook Pro stood as its flagship laptop for the professional market. With its big Retina screen and optional discrete Radeon Pro graphics, this model powered through photo and video edits, programming, and demanding office work.

• 15.4-inch Retina display at 2880×1800 resolution
• Quad-core Intel Core i7 CPUs as standard
• Radeon Pro 555 or 560 GPU, with up to 4GB VRAM
• 16GB RAM, speedy SSDs, and four USB-C/Thunderbolt 3 ports

This MacBook Pro wasn’t just a larger version of the 13-inch. Its powerful processors and GPU made it the default choice for creative professionals and anyone who wanted the best specs in a Mac laptop. Its performance kept it relevant long after release, but now it shares the obsolete label. Official repairs for its screen, logic board, or advanced GPU are over. Owners are left to find their own solutions as these once-premium workhorses hit the end of Apple’s seven-year support line.

These models each set a standard in their time, and their removal from Apple’s service list really marks the end of an era for fans of Intel MacBooks. As Apple moves further into Apple Silicon, support for these classics now lives on only in third-party repair shops and through user know-how.

How Users Are Affected and What They Can Do

Apple’s decision to mark the 2015 11-inch MacBook Air and the 2017 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Pros as obsolete leaves owners at a crossroads. If you rely on one of these Macs, you’ll need a plan for keeping it working or for moving on. You still have choices to get the most from your device, protect your files, and make smart next steps, but there are important changes that affect both your wallet and peace of mind.

Loss of Official Repairs

Once Apple adds a MacBook to its obsolete list, official support closes. Neither the Genius Bar nor Apple’s network of authorized repair shops will fix your device or order replacement parts. That means:

• Higher repair costs: If something breaks, routine fixes like screen or battery replacements can cost more through third parties, since genuine parts are scarce or unavailable.
• No safety net: Apple-certified repairs include strict quality checks, warranties, and safety standards. Losing this means less confidence in repair outcomes.
• No access to specialty repairs: Advanced issues, such as a logic board or Touch Bar failure, often need tools and skills only Apple provides.

If you’ve always leaned on AppleCare or the Genius Bar, this shift feels like losing a backup parachute.

Risks of Third‑Party Service

With Apple and its partners off the table, you’ll need a local or mail-in repair shop for future help. Not all third-party repair services are the same:

• Parts quality varies: Some shops use high-quality parts, others may use cheap knockoffs. Poor parts can shorten your Mac’s life or cause more issues down the road.
• Warranty at risk: Official Apple repairs keep any active AppleCare coverage valid (though none remains for these models). Third-party fixes can void existing extras on other gear, or impact future trade-in value.
• Variable expertise: Some repair shops have skilled Mac techs, others might not. Bad repairs can damage your MacBook or even cause data loss.

Before you pick a third-party repair shop, keep these tips in mind:

• Check reviews: Search Google, Yelp, or Reddit for honest customer stories.
• Ask about parts: Confirm if the shop uses genuine or high-quality parts, and if they offer a warranty on their work.
• Look for Mac experience: Shops that specialize in Macs are usually safer than those handling all brands.

Checking Eligibility and Options

Not sure if your MacBook is obsolete? You can check with Apple’s support tools. Here’s how:

• Apple’s service-eligibility tool: Enter your MacBook’s serial number at Apple’s Check Coverage page to see support status and warranty info.
• Battery service exception: In rare cases, MacBooks may be eligible for a battery-only repair up to 10 years after sale. Ask Apple support directly in-store or via chat.
• Use Apple’s trade-in program: Apple offers trade-in value for many old Macs (even if not repairable). It’s a way to get credit for a new device and safely recycle outdated hardware.
• Upgrade deals: Keep an eye on Apple’s refurbished store and seasonal upgrade offers for discounts.

If your Mac just made the list, a quick eligibility check could save you hassle or reveal one last repair window.

Backing Up Data and Migrating

When support ends, protecting your digital life becomes your top job. Backing up your files ensures you don’t lose photos, documents, or important work if your Mac fails.

Easy backup methods:

• iCloud Drive: Stores your Desktop, Documents, and Photos in Apple’s cloud. Make sure you have enough space and that “iCloud Drive” is on in System Preferences.
• Time Machine: Use an external drive for automatic hourly backups. Just plug in a drive, open System Preferences, and set up Time Machine. Your Mac will handle the rest.

Getting ready to migrate:

Moving to a new Mac? Migration Assistant makes it simple. Connect your backup drive or sign into your iCloud account on the new Mac, then follow prompts to move everything over—settings, apps, even desktop clutter.

If this is your first upgrade in years, you might need to update old software or find new apps that work on Apple Silicon. Make a checklist of your can’t-live-without programs before you move.

Good backups and a plan for migration mean you won’t lose sleep over lost photos or projects. Stay ahead, and you’ll keep your digital life safe as these MacBooks move into true retirement.

Broader Implications of Obsolescence

When Apple moves devices to its obsolete list, the ripple effect goes well beyond a few unsupported laptops. This change doesn’t just put pressure on individual users. It influences how we all think about e-waste, shapes expectations for future device upgrades, and reflects bigger industry trends in sustainability and business strategy. Here’s a closer look at the wider impact of Apple’s obsolescence policy.

E‑waste and Sustainability

Every time a MacBook, iPhone, or iPad is marked obsolete, it increases the risk of that device ending up as electronic waste. Old electronics pile up in drawers or landfills, releasing toxic materials and putting extra strain on the planet. The problem isn’t small. With millions of Apple devices in circulation, even a small percentage becoming waste is a mountain of metal, plastics, and rare earth elements.

Apple knows it can’t ignore this. That’s why the company has invested in programs and technology to make recycling easier and more impactful. The Daisy robot, for example, can take apart 36 different iPhone models and recover critical materials—including rare earths, gold, and tungsten—for new devices. Nearly a quarter of the materials Apple uses today are from recycled or renewable sources. The company aims for net-zero emissions by 2030, including reusing and recycling old devices on a larger scale.

Still, there’s a gap between recycling goals and reality. While Apple promotes its Reuse & Recycling Program, most users don’t recycle perfectly. Some people keep old laptops as backups, while others just toss them out. The move to obsolete status highlights the pressing need for more responsible device retirement options, both from companies and from users. If Apple and others can make trade-ins and recycling even simpler, more people will take that last step before their gadget collects dust.

Business Strategy and Consumer Expectations

There’s a real strategy behind Apple’s regular product cycles and clear cutoff dates for device support. When old devices move to vintage or obsolete, it pushes buyers toward newer, more expensive models. The promise of fresh features and longer support keeps the upgrade loop spinning, growing sales in the process.

For many users, this predictability is helpful. You know that after about seven years, official support stops and repairs get tough. But there’s a quiet pressure underneath. If you want working gear and peace of mind, you need to plan for replacements every few years. This cycle isn’t unique to Apple—it’s common in tech today.

Here’s how this cycle affects everyone:

• Power users and businesses tend to budget for regular upgrades, trading in devices before they go fully unsupported.
• Everyday users might feel forced into new purchases sooner than planned, especially if their old MacBook still works but can’t get fixed.
• Third-party repair shops become more important, but these can’t always match Apple’s quality and safety standards.

Apple does work to offset some of this churn through its trade-in program, certified refurbished sales, and a strong focus on making new products last longer. But as each obsolete announcement lands, the debate heats up. Should device makers offer longer support, or would that slow down innovation and sales?

Future of Device Lifecycles

Looking to the future, announcements like Apple’s latest obsolete list are clues about what might happen as new models launch—think upcoming iPhones, MacBooks, and beyond.

Here’s what users can expect:

• The seven-year hard stop is likely to stick. Apple’s lifecycle policy is clear and lets buyers plan ahead.
• New devices will keep getting greener, with more recycled content and more efficient designs. For example, Apple now uses 100% recycled rare earths in the magnets of many products.
• Official support windows may eventually expand. As users push for more repairability (and as new right-to-repair laws appear), companies could offer longer part availability or make repairs easier.
• More trade-in and recycling options are coming. Apple wants old devices back to recover parts and support its sustainability goals.

When the iPhone 17 and its future MacBook siblings arrive, chances are good Apple will tout even more about how they’re built, how long they’ll last, and how they can be recycled when their time is up. For buyers, it’s a reminder to think about more than just the shiny features—device lifespan, repairability, and recycling matter more than ever.

The obsolescence of current models isn’t just about losing access to repairs. It reflects a complex mix of environmental responsibility, business growth, and changing expectations for how long our tech should really last.

Conclusion

Apple’s decision to mark these MacBooks obsolete closes the book on another chapter of its Intel laptop era. If you still rely on one of these models, you’re not alone—and you have a clear path forward. Backup your files, check trade-in options, and explore trusted third-party repair shops if you plan to keep your device running.

Consider this change a push to plan your next upgrade or recycle your Mac responsibly. By acting now, you can avoid last-minute stress and make the most of Apple’s available trade-in and recycling programs. Thanks for reading, and if you’ve just said goodbye to a well-loved MacBook, share your experience below or with your friends. Your story might help someone else make a smoother transition.