Apple made a quick entry into the smartwatch world with its first Watch model announced in 2015. Its sleek design and high-end features were much talked about, and it is still used by thousands of people today. However, with the release of the Watch Series 9, support for the first Apple Watch model was terminated.
Original Apple Watch and its $17,000 gold version shelved
Apple has officially classified original Apple Watch models released in 2015 as “obsolete”. This includes the 38mm/42mm aluminum and stainless steel versions, as well as the 18-karat gold-plated Apple Watch Edition, which sells for $17,000.
Apple typically discontinues support for a product more than seven years after it stops selling it. The Apple Watch was discontinued in September 2016 with the release of the Watch Series 2, so naturally the seven-year mark has passed.
The classification as “legacy” means that first-generation Watch users will no longer receive support from Apple. This means no repairs or technical support will be available in stores or authorized service centers.
Apple Watch Ultra users have complained that the display is difficult to read in low light conditions. Here's the detail.
Apple will also not provide update support for the first-generation Watch model. This means that apps will become obsolete after a while.
Considering that the first Apple Watch is almost 10 years old, this is not unexpected. However, the classification of the $17,000 18-karat gold-plated Apple Watch Edition as “old” may upset private users.
So what do you think about this issue? Please don’t forget to share your thoughts with us in the comments.
