Apple has once again updated its listing of “vintage” and “obsolete” devices and has added the iPhone 5c to the list as a vintage device. The designation effectively limits support programs for the seven-year-old handset.
Apple’s continuously updated support document shows iPhone 5c was designated as “vintage” on Nov. 2.
The “vintage” designation applies to devices that have not been sold for more than 5 and less than 7 years ago. Mac, iPhone, iPad, iPod, and Apple TV vintage products continue to receive hardware service from Apple service providers, including Apple Retail Stores, subject to availability of inventory, or as required by law.
Once a product passes the 7-year mark, they are considered obsolete, meaning Apple has discontinued all hardware service for obsolete products, with no exceptions. Service providers cannot order parts for obsolete products.
The iPhone 5c debuted in 2013 and was meant to be a lower-priced alternative to the iPhone 5s devices that were Apple’s flagship handsets for that year. The polycarbonate handset used mostly components from the previous year’s iPhone 5 but boasted a larger battery.
The iPhone 5c remained available until 2015. It’s replacement, the iPhone SE, debuted in 2016.
Apple adds older devices to its vintage and obsolete devices list on a regular basis. The final model of the iPod nano was added to the list in October.
(Via AppleInsider)