Apple users are in for a shock as one of the company's most popular devices is about to lose official support, potentially leaving owners stranded if anything goes wrong.
The tech giant has flagged the gadget as 'obsolete,' meaning repairs and technical assistance will no longer be available through Apple's official channels once the change takes effect.
Which Device Is Affected?
While Apple hasn't officially named the product in recent announcements, industry insiders suggest it's likely to be a fan-favourite from several years ago that still has a significant user base.
When a product reaches 'obsolete' status, Apple Stores and Authorised Service Providers can no longer order parts for repairs. This leaves users with limited options if their device develops faults.
What Does Obsolete Status Mean for Users?
- No more hardware service from Apple
- Limited software support and updates
- Potential compatibility issues with newer devices
- Reduced security updates over time
Tech experts recommend that affected users consider upgrading to newer models before their current device fails completely. 'When Apple declares a product obsolete, it's essentially the beginning of the end for that device's functionality,' explained one industry analyst.
How to Check If Your Device Is Affected
Apple maintains an official list of obsolete products on its website. Users can check their device's model number against this list to confirm its status.
For those whose devices are about to lose support, third-party repair shops may still offer some solutions, though without access to original Apple parts, the quality and longevity of these repairs can vary significantly.
This move highlights the growing issue of planned obsolescence in the tech industry, where devices are designed with limited lifespans to encourage regular upgrades.
