Popular Apple device becomes obsolete and means users have no support if something goes wrong

Another Apple device has been added to its 'vintage' list, meaning owners of the popular product no longer qualify for services and repairs.

When you buy a product from Apple, you're able to 'obtain service and parts' from the company's service providers for 'a minimum of five years from when [the company] last distributed the product for sale' should something go wrong with your device.

However, should your device make it onto the list of Apple's 'obsolete' items? Well, unfortunately that means the deal is null and void.

What makes an Apple product obsolete?

Apple's website states products are considered 'vintage' and obsolete - out of date - when the company 'stopped distributing them for sale more than five and less than seven years ago'.

It adds: "Apple discontinues hardware service for certain technologically-obsolete products.

"Your product is supported by ongoing OS updates and backed by a network of more than 5,000 Apple-certified repair locations that you can count on if something unexpected happens."

And it's quite likely one of your Apple products may've made the list.

Which Apple products are obsolete?

Alongside multiple MacBook Air, Pros and iBooks, the 4th and 6th generation iPod touches also make the list as well as various iPod nanos and iPhones too - the latest model the 6s Plus (32GB).

But the latest Apple gadget to be added as a 'vintage' item?

The Apple Watch Series 2 Aluminium (2nd generation) in both the 38mm, 42mm and stainless steel varieties too which were released back in 2016 which yes, was eight years ago - feel old yet?

The Apple Watches are listed as:

• Apple Watch (1st generation), 38mm
• Apple Watch (1st generation), 42mm
• Apple Watch Edition (1st generation), 38mm
• Apple Watch Edition (1st generation), 42mm
• Apple Watch Hermes (1st generation), 38mm
• Apple Watch Hermes (1st generation), 42mm
• Apple Watch Series 2, Aluminum (2nd generation), 38mm
• Apple Watch Series 2, Aluminum (2nd generation), 42mm
• Apple Watch Series 2, Stainless Steel (2nd generation), 38mm
• Apple Watch Series 2, Stainless Steel (2nd generation), 42mm
• Apple Watch Sport (1st generation), 38mm
• Apple Watch Sport (1st generation), 42mm
• Apple Watch Stainless Steel (1st generation), 38mm
• Apple Watch Stainless Steel (1st generation), 42mm

Oh, and if you have 1st generation AirPods then you're unlucky too.

What happens when an Apple device is considered obsolete?

Basically, if your Apple device is five to seven years past its prime it's no longer eligible for Apple's repair services either with the company itself or an Apple Authorized Service Provider, Mac Rumors explains.

However, there is an exception to the rule in the form of a MacBook battery which can be replaced for up to 10 years from when the product was last distributed for sale, 'subject to parts availability' of course.