Apple’s decision means that the iPhone 11 Pro Max and Watch Series 3 have ceased to be sold directly by Apple and will only receive limited service support.
One notable detail is that, while the iPhone 11 Pro Max is included in the vintage list, the iPhone 11 Pro is still not. This is interpreted as a sign that Apple is continuing to distribute the iPhone 11 Pro through third-party retailers in some markets. While the iPhone 11 Pro Max is classified as vintage and considered obsolete, its compatibility with iOS 26 suggests that users will be able to comfortably use the device for several more years.
Vintage After Eight Years
Meanwhile, the Apple Watch Series 3 has officially been designated as “vintage” today, nearly eight years after its launch. First released in September 2017 and remaining on sale as an affordable option until September 2022, the Series 3 stands out as one of Apple’s longest-lasting models. Interestingly, during the watchOS 9 testing period, Apple continued to sell the Series 3, despite this model being incompatible with the update. This demonstrates the long-standing history of the Watch Series 3 within the company.
What is the Apple Vintage Category?
According to Apple’s definition, a device is considered “vintage” if it has been on sale for more than five years. For devices in this category, Apple and its authorized service providers continue to provide repair services only if replacement parts are available.
An interesting detail is that the relatively newer Apple Watch Series 4 was added to the vintage list before the Series 3. This development has once again brought Apple’s product lifecycle policies into focus. Although their official support periods have decreased, the iPhone 11 Pro Max and Apple Watch Series 3 are still used by millions of users thanks to their robust hardware and software compatibility.
If you’re curious about what products are in Apple’s vintage category, you can search for them on the official Apple website, which appears first on Google by searching for “Apple vintage category.”
