iPhone 17 launch could cause these Apple smartphones to retire permanently: Check model names

Apple is preparing for its biggest hardware showcase of the year, set to take place at its Cupertino headquarters on September 9. The company is expected to unveil the iPhone 17 series alongside new Apple Watches and possibly updated AirPods Pro. While the spotlight will remain on the fresh lineup, the event also signals the end of the road for several existing Apple devices, a move consistent with the company’s product strategy each year.

Older iPhones to Be Phased Out

As per reports from India Today Tech and other outlets, the arrival of the iPhone 17 series will likely result in the discontinuation of the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max. Last year’s flagship models could be removed from the official lineup once their replacements arrive. If this happens, these phones will remain available through third-party retailers until stocks last.

The iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus are also expected to be withdrawn. Their departure would make the iPhone 16 series the new entry-level option on Apple’s website. Consumers could, however, find heavy discounts on older models during festive season sales as retailers attempt to clear inventory.

Apple Watch Lineup Refresh

Alongside the iPhone 17, Apple is anticipated to reveal the Apple Watch Series 11 and Watch Ultra 3. Their launch is set to retire the Watch Series 10 and Watch Ultra 2. If a new Watch SE model is also introduced, the Watch SE 2 could be replaced to streamline the company’s catalog.

Vintage and Obsolete Devices

In the days leading up to the launch, Apple quietly updated its product lifecycle lists. According to reports, the iPhone 8 Plus (64GB and 256GB variants) has been added to the vintage category. Similarly, the iPhone XS has joined the same list. Apple defines vintage devices as those discontinued for more than five years but less than seven, which still qualify for repairs if parts are available.On the other hand, the fifth-generation iPad from 2017 has officially been classified as obsolete. This means Apple no longer provides repair or service support for the device, leaving owners reliant on third-party options. Additionally, older Mac models such as the 11-inch MacBook Air (2015) and certain 2017 MacBook Pro variants have also been moved to the obsolete list.For users of devices now marked vintage, Apple’s service support will gradually diminish as replacement parts become harder to source. Those with products on the obsolete list will not have access to Apple’s repair ecosystem at all.