What you need to know
- Apple has added the 2012 MacBook Pro to its obsolete product list.
- The laptop was the first MacBook Pro with a Retina Display.
The first MacBook to ship with a Retina display is now considered obsolete by Apple.
As reported by MacRumors, the 2012 13-inch MacBook Pro has officially been added to its list of vintage and obsolete products (opens in new tab).
Apple first introduced the Retina display in its Mac lineup with the 15-inch MacBook Pro released in mid-2012. In October of that year, Apple updated the 13-inch MacBook Pro with a Retina display, flash storage, and upgraded processors.The original 15-inch MacBook Pro became obsolete in July of 2020, and the 13-inch model has now followed suit. Apple classifies products that have been discontinued for at least seven years as "obsolete," meaning that they are unable to receive any hardware service from Apple or its service providers.
As Apple explains on its website, obsolete products are ones that were discontinued more than 7 years ago. Because they are so old, the company no longer provides parts or service for those devices.
Obsolete products are those whose sales were discontinued more than 7 years ago. Monster-branded Beats products are considered obsolete regardless of when they were purchased. Apple discontinues all hardware service for obsolete products, with no exceptions. Service providers cannot order parts for obsolete products.
Vintage products, on the other hand, are those that have been discontinued more than 5 but less than 7 years ago. Those products are still eligible for service and repair.
Owners of iPhone, iPad, iPod, Mac, or Apple TV products may obtain service and parts from Apple service providers, including Apple Retail Stores and Independent Repair Providers, for 5 years from when Apple last distributed the product for sale. Service and parts may be obtained for longer, as required by law, or for an additional two years, subject to parts availability. Apple discontinues hardware service for certain technologically-obsolete products. Your device is supported by ongoing OS updates and backed by a network of more than 5000 Apple-certified repair locations that you can count on if something unexpected happens.
As one MacBook Pro goes to the graveyard, another is anticipated to be released later this year with a new design, new processor, and Mini-LED display.
