iPhone X, first-gen AirPods and HomePod make it to Apple’s ‘vintage’ list

Apple just declared its iPhone X, first-gen AirPods, and the very first HomePod ‘vintage’.

But let’s face it, it may seem odd to call them old, considering how the first-gen HomePod was launched in 2018. The AirPods, on the other hand, were launched in 2016, while the iPhone X was introduced as late as in 2017.

But as it turns out, every now and then, Apple updates its ‘vintage and obsolete’ list with a few of these ‘old’ products. Wondering what this means for you? Read on.

Understanding Apple's vintage and obsolete list

Apple considers a product vintage when it stops selling for more than five years — but is less than seven years old. This typically indicates that it has been a while since the company sold the device, and the product is on its way to obsoletion.

If you own a vintage Apple device, chances are you may not have an issue getting service or repairment for the said product. However, the brand will cut off any upcoming software updates and will not guarantee obtaining critical parts for the device in question.

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Of course, Apple may make exceptions to the no-update policy in the case of a critical software flaw or if there is an important security patch. But if your device has made it to the vintage list, Apple strongly suggests replacing or upgrading to a more recent variant.

What should you do if you own the iPhone X, HomePod and the first-gen AirPods?

If you own any of the above-mentioned devices, you still have a while before Apple labels them obsolete. This usually happens after the seven-year mark.

You could still continue using the iPhone X as long as it is working well; however, you might not be able to enjoy any other iOS update that comes to the newer devices.

Similarly, the first-gen AirPods and HomePod may still be considered useful but Apple may not guarantee repairs or parts for these products.

ALSO READ: Apple iPhone SE declared ‘vintage’: What it actually means for users

The iPhone X in 2017 marked a big jump for Apple as it was the first iPhone without a dedicated home button. It also introduced Animojis, and its design has influenced all subsequent iPhone models thereafter.

The HomePod, on the other hand, was also considered the company’s first competitor to home speakers in the market. The first-gen Apple AirPods also had their heydays and were considered a benchmark for other TWS earbuds that followed its launch.

However, if you’ve been using an old device, it is always a good idea to future-proof it from time to time, be it Android or iOS.