How can an item be both vintage and obsolete?

2 MacBook Airs, 11-inch models, are listed as both vintage and obsolete. Is that correct?

MacBook Air 11", macOS 10.12

Posted on May 17, 2020 8:18 AM

Reply
5 replies

May 17, 2020 11:52 AM in response to Philipntx

There are a lot of 11" MBAs out there. To which specific models are you referring? Are they truly the exact same model versions? Of course, it may simply be a model that was vintage and just became obsolete. I suppose one could argue that even an obsolete model remains vintage depending on how each is defined. Is this an issue of sufficient importance to require a topic since no problem question has been stipulated?


Please read Writing an effective Apple Support Communities question. We are here to help. We are all users. We are not mind-readers nor clairvoyants. We only know what you write down and tell us. Be specific and thorough. Include your hardware information and installed version of macOS. Try to write clearly. Think about what you want to say before you write it down, then re-read it to see if it makes sense.


FYI: These are user-only forums. This is not Apple Support. if you need to contact Apple Support, then contact product and tech support:  Contacting Apple for support and service including international calling numbers.


These forums only provide help with Apple products. Thank you for your understanding and support.

May 17, 2020 1:48 PM in response to Philipntx

As these fade into obscurity rites of passage denote their namesakes "Vintage & (or) Obsolete"


• Vintage and obsolete products - Apple Support

https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201624


This April (2020) a few more met this fate; they may still see some support by authorized service at

Apple. And 'independent' business could do work on old vintage, with sourced outdated new parts.

Usually for five years after Vintage status these still see some support at Apple, & authorized repair.


• These MacBooks will hit Apple's dreaded 'vintage and obsolete' list soon - cultofmac (April 2020)

https://www.cultofmac.com/698321/these-macbooks-will-hit-apples-dreaded-vintage-and-obsolete-list-soon/


(Certain models produced in 2011 are obsolete; & still are serviceable to some degree. My 2005/2006

iBook G4 and early MacBook1.1 still do fairly well. While my mid-2012 MB/Pro 13-in 2.5GHz runs well

enough with a blade SSD and more RAM; minimal hardware upgrades, with Mojave.)


• Identify your MacBook Air model - Apple Support


• Apple adds 2013 and 2014 MacBook Air, Pro models to vintage and obsolete list | appleinsider

Nothing really new in this schedule, almost routine in fact.


Good luck & happy trails!🌻🌤

May 17, 2020 5:42 PM in response to Kappy

The two models I’m referring to are:

  • MacBook Air (11-inch, Late 2010)
  • MacBook Air (11-inch, Mid 2011)


They are on both lists. The article (or another one) suggested that “obsolete” means Apple will not support it and/or repair it anymore; but, if it is listed as “vintage” it is supported and can be repaired by Apple. I would try anyway, but it could lead to confusion. So I was just wondering.


Thanks for the responses!

This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

How can an item be both vintage and obsolete?

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.