Apple has officially classified the iPhone X and the 2018 15-inch MacBook Pro as “obsolete” devices, which means official service for them has ended. While this move was expected under the company’s policy, it closes the chapter on two iconic gadgets that significantly influenced the development of mobile technology and computing.

Apple’s New Service Policy Era: What Does the “Obsolete” Status Mean?

From now on, the iPhone X and the 2018 MacBook Pro are officially included in the list of products Apple considers “obsolete and discontinued.” This means owners of these devices can no longer receive official repairs from Apple or its authorized partners. Ordering original parts through official channels also becomes impossible. This policy applies to all devices that were discontinued more than seven years ago.

However, there is one exception for Mac computers involving battery replacement. It may remain available for up to ten years after the model was officially discontinued, provided the necessary components are available. For the iPhone X, which went on sale in November 2017, that period has already passed.

iPhone X: The Revolution That Changed the Face of Smartphones

The iPhone X became a true milestone in Apple’s history and in smartphone design overall. This was the first model to introduce the world to a full OLED display, delivering exceptional image quality, deep colors, and energy efficiency. One of the most fundamental innovations was Face ID, which replaced the familiar Touch ID fingerprint sensor. This not only increased security, but also made it possible to remove the Home button entirely, freeing up space for a larger display.

The iPhone X design was equally defining. The glass back combined with a stainless steel frame gave the device a premium look that became a template for many later smartphones. The removal of the physical Home button and the introduction of the notch at the top of the screen, which housed advanced sensors, sparked heated debate at first, but later became canonical design elements.

Technological Limitations and the End of the Support Era

The last major operating system update for the iPhone X was iOS 16. Unfortunately, the A11 Bionic chip, which was flagship-level at the time of release, was not powerful enough to support later versions of iOS, including iOS 17. This is a typical situation in electronics: over time, technology evolves, and older components can no longer meet the growing demands of software.

MacBook Pro 2018: Power in a Slim Body

The 2018 15-inch MacBook Pro was also a major step forward for Apple’s notebook lineup. It offered significant performance improvements thanks to new Intel processors, an updated graphics subsystem, and increased RAM capacity. These laptops were aimed at professionals who needed high computing power for graphics work, video editing, programming, and other resource-intensive tasks.

Despite their performance, the 2018 MacBook Pro models also faced certain issues, particularly related to thermal performance. However, in terms of design and functionality, they remained a benchmark for a mobile workstation.

Broader Context: Market Trends and Apple’s Policy

The addition of the iPhone X and MacBook Pro 2018 to the obsolete devices list is part of Apple’s overall strategy for managing the life cycle of its products. The company regularly updates this list, allowing it to focus resources on developing and supporting newer, more innovative products.

Interestingly, back in March 2026, Apple added 15 laptops and smartphones to the obsolete devices list, including both relatively old and quite “fresh” models. This highlights the accelerating technology cycle in the consumer electronics industry.

Future Innovations and Design Evolution

At the same time, Apple continues working on future generations of its products. According to rumors, the company is preparing the anniversary iPhone 20 for launch, and its redesign is expected to be just as revolutionary as the release of the iPhone X. Future models are expected to feature improved Samsung OLED displays with smooth micro-curves on all four sides, making it possible to eliminate bezels and cutouts entirely. This points to Apple’s drive to create even more seamless and aesthetically refined devices.

Apple’s decision to declare certain models “obsolete” is an important signal for consumers. It serves as a reminder of the cyclical nature of technology and the need to upgrade hardware in time to fully use modern software and services. At the same time, it gives new users the opportunity to buy these excellent devices at lower prices on the secondary market, letting them experience the innovations that once defined an era.

Roman Spas

Roman Spas is the author of a blog about website development, IT news, web project promotion, design and modern technologies. In his materials, he explains complex digital topics in simple language, shares practical advice for website owners, entrepreneurs, marketers and specialists who want to better understand the online environment. The author's main focus is on effective websites, SEO, web design, internet marketing and technological solutions that help businesses develop in the digital space.