Cupertino, CA – June 13, 2025:
The iPhone XS has officially become a "Vintage" designation by Apple, indicating that it is now approaching the end of life of the device. This designation is in keeping with Apple's history of adhering to a schedule of discontinuing software updates and support for outdated products. The end of software updates, repairs, and service are essentially over.What Does “Vintage” Mean?
When Apple designates a product as vintage, the definition means that it was discontinued over five and less than seven years ago. In this situation, the iPhone XS was launched in September 2018, and officially stopped being sold in September 2019.According to Apple's support policy, vintage products are eligible for repair at Apple Stores and Apple Authorized Service Providers, at Apple's discretion, while supplies last. This is not guaranteed and is part and piece inventory and policy in the area.
One Step Away from Obsolete
The iPhone XS is now on it's clock, as in a couple of years it will be in Apple's "obsolete" category! Once the device is obsolete, all options for hardware repair or service from Apple or Authorized Service Providers will cease, regardless of part availability.
This is the typical lifecycle path laid out by Apple. Used products receive a vintage designation five years after discontinuation and obsolete designation seven years after discontinuation. The iPhone XS Max, which launched simultaneously with the XS was placed on the vintage list November 2024 and it will likely take a similar path towards obsolescence.
This is the typical lifecycle path laid out by Apple. Used products receive a vintage designation five years after discontinuation and obsolete designation seven years after discontinuation. The iPhone XS Max, which launched simultaneously with the XS was placed on the vintage list November 2024 and it will likely take a similar path towards obsolescence.
Other Devices Affected
Along with the iPhone XS, Apple has also updated its vintage and obsolete device lists for a few more products:
iPad (5th generation): This device has gone from vintage to obsolete. Meaning, there will be no hardware support, regardless of part availability. The iPad has already ceased receiving software updates and no repairs will be offered by Apple.
Mac mini (2018): This model was already on the vintage list, but Apple has a now added cautionary note to contact Apple Service Providers directly to confirm repairs availability, as parts are limited.
iPad (5th generation): This device has gone from vintage to obsolete. Meaning, there will be no hardware support, regardless of part availability. The iPad has already ceased receiving software updates and no repairs will be offered by Apple.
Mac mini (2018): This model was already on the vintage list, but Apple has a now added cautionary note to contact Apple Service Providers directly to confirm repairs availability, as parts are limited.
iPhone XS – A Look Back
The iPhone XS was a refinement of the iPhone X rather than a breakthrough upgrade. The iPhone XS had:
- The A12 Bionic chip that provided better processing and improved machine learning as well.
- Improved dual-camera setup with Smart HDR that gave better quality photos.
- Improved waterproofing and dust proofing (IP68).
- The option of using dual SIMS via nano-SIM and eSIM.
- A Super Retina OLED display sized at 5.8 inches.
The iPhone XS may have offered minimal improvement, but it helped Apple cement its place in the premium smartphone and grew the user base of people who liked the size and power of the XS.
What Should iPhone XS Users Do Now?
For anyone that is still using the iPhone XS, here is what this change means:
- You won't receive any more software updates, including the major updates to iOS, such as iOS 19, iOS 20, and beyond.
- You won't be able to repair it anymore but repair options still remain, but very limited and expected to dwindle down over time.
- You could still replace the battery and possibly the screen, that is still an option, however, see if the option is available before you go to a service center.
- You can also make a decision of an upgrade to something newer, like an iPhone 15, or iPhone 16, or whatever is next (sooner than later, iPhone 17 coming in September 2025).
Final Thoughts
Apple's recent decision to officially classify the iPhone XS as being vintage is not an unusual part of the company strategy with regards to product lifecycle, but it is a reminder to users that even expensive products only have so long of an official lifespan. Now that the iPhone XS is in the autumn of its lifecycle, users must consider whether it makes sense to continue using the iPhone XS, given it is more difficult than ever to repair and it will no longer receive any of the latest software updates.
If you are still using an XS, it might be ideal to create a backup now, and start planning your next steps.