Apple updates the list of devices that are not eligible for official technical support regularly, adding products that have been years since they were last available for sale through Apple.
The latest device to make this list is the iPad 4, the fourth-generation iPad, an iPad that was launched in November 2012 alongside the first generation iPad mini and that it was the first to adopt the lighting connection instead of the 30-pin connector.
Officially discontinued in October 2014, the same year the second-generation iPad Air was released.
Apple offers parts support and repair services for iPhones, iPads, iPods, Macs, and Apple TVs. for a minimum of 5 years as of the last time they were on sale through Apple's official channels.
When 5 years have passed since the last day they were for sale through Apple's official channels, the device becomes Vintage, and the company does not assure us that it will have the necessary parts to repair the device.
When more than 7 years have passed since the last time an Apple product was for sale through official channels, the device is considered Obsolete and Apple cannot repair or provide service of any kind.
- Products are considered Vintage when Apple stopped distributing them for sale more than 5 and less than 7 years ago.
- Products are considered Obsolete when Apple stopped distributing them for sale more than 7 years ago. Monster brand Beats products are considered obsolete regardless of when they were purchased.
IPad 4 it has not been the only product which has entered the obsolete category, since it has been accompanied by the Mac mini from late 2012, a device that was on sale until October 2014, when it was replaced by the Mac mini from 2014.
