Apple Adds 2013 Mac Pro and AirPort Devices to Vintage List
Apple has officially moved the 2013 Mac Pro—famously known as the “trash can” model—alongside AirPort accessories and more to its vintage and obsolete products list. This announcement has sparked interest among Apple fans and long-time users who are wondering what being classified as a vintage Apple product means. If you’re still using these devices, or if you're a collector or repair technician, this update carries important implications for support, service availability, and resale value.
Understanding why the 2013 Mac Pro and other hardware are now labeled “vintage” helps users make informed decisions about repairs, upgrades, and replacements. Apple’s vintage and obsolete products policy is more than just a classification—it directly impacts access to parts and official Apple support.
Understanding Apple’s Vintage and Obsolete Products Policy
Apple defines a product as vintage when it has not been sold for more than five but less than seven years. During this time, repair services may still be available, but they are limited and not guaranteed. Once a product surpasses the seven-year mark without being sold, it transitions into the obsolete category. Obsolete products are no longer eligible for service or parts through Apple or Apple Authorized Service Providers.
The 2013 Mac Pro was a unique case. While it debuted more than a decade ago, Apple continued to sell it until December 2019. Because of that extended retail life, it only now qualifies as vintage. Many of Apple’s other hardware revisions—including various AirPort models, iPads, and accessories—were also added to the vintage list in this latest update.
If you're still using a device on this list, now’s the time to consider backups, data transfers, and possibly planning for a hardware upgrade. If your Mac or AirPort device is vintage, you might still get limited repairs, but only while parts last.
Why the 2013 Mac Pro Failed to Meet Expectations
When the 2013 Mac Pro was revealed, it symbolized Apple’s bold new vision for professional computing. Its cylindrical, compact design was intended to represent cutting-edge engineering. Phil Schiller’s now-infamous quote—“Can’t innovate anymore, my ass”—was delivered during the unveiling, meant to silence critics. However, this design proved to be more form than function.
Despite its futuristic appearance, the 2013 Mac Pro didn’t meet the expectations of Apple’s pro users. The compact form factor left little room for internal upgrades, especially as GPU and thermal requirements advanced. It couldn’t keep up with industry demands, which is ironic for a product aimed at professionals in video editing, 3D rendering, and other performance-heavy fields.
By 2017, Apple admitted its misstep. Craig Federighi, Apple’s hardware chief, stated, “I think we designed ourselves into a bit of a thermal corner.” That candid acknowledgment paved the way for the redesigned 2019 “Cheese Grater” Mac Pro, a return to a more modular design appreciated by professionals.
Devices Added to the Vintage List and What It Means for You
Alongside the 2013 Mac Pro, several other Apple products were added to the vintage and obsolete list. These include a range of AirPort devices, older iPads, and accessories. While Apple hasn’t detailed every single model included in this round, AirPort Time Capsule and AirPort Extreme units are among those now considered vintage.
So what should users do? If you own any of these devices and rely on them daily, consider proactive steps like:
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Checking repair availability now before service ends entirely.
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Upgrading to modern Apple alternatives for better performance and software support.
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Backing up important data, especially if you use Time Capsule or older iPads.
Collectors may see an increase in demand for these products, especially the 2013 Mac Pro, given its unique place in Apple history. However, functionality and repair access will continue to decline with time.
Looking Ahead: Apple’s Evolving Hardware Lifecycle
Apple’s approach to hardware and support reflects its emphasis on pushing forward while streamlining legacy support. The vintage list update reminds users that while Apple devices are built to last, there’s a finite window for official service. This is why staying informed on the product lifecycle can help users manage technology investments more wisely.
The 2013 Mac Pro marks a significant chapter in Apple’s innovation journey—a bold experiment that ultimately didn’t pan out, but shaped future product decisions. Whether you’re still using it or simply fascinated by Apple’s hardware evolution, knowing what “vintage” status means is essential.
If you’re a creative professional or tech enthusiast still hanging on to legacy Apple hardware, now’s the perfect moment to evaluate your setup and decide if it’s time to transition to newer models that meet today’s performance and support standards.
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