In a move that marks the end of an era, Apple has officially added the 2017 models of the 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Pro with Touch Bar to its vintage products list worldwide. This decision comes as these models have crossed the five-year threshold since they were last offered for sale, a criterion Apple uses to classify devices as vintage.
The Vintage Classification
Apple’s vintage list is a catalog of devices that have not been sold for more than five years but less than seven. These products are no longer eligible for hardware service, except in Turkey and California, where local laws require Apple to continue offering service for vintage devices.
The Touch Bar Legacy
The Touch Bar was introduced as a revolutionary feature, aiming to provide a dynamic touch interface right above the keyboard. However, it received mixed reviews from users and developers alike. Interestingly, Apple has since removed the Touch Bar from higher-end MacBook Pro models, opting for physical function keys in its latest releases.
What Does This Mean for Current Owners?
If you own one of these 2017 MacBook Pro models, it’s essential to know that Apple will no longer offer hardware service for these devices, except in specific locations due to local laws. Software support may continue, but it will be limited.
Market Impact
The vintage classification often leads to a decrease in resale value. However, these models may become collector’s items in the future, given their unique feature set, including the Touch Bar.
Future of MacBook Pro
Apple’s latest MacBook Pro models have moved away from the Touch Bar, focusing on performance improvements and the return of essential ports. The new 13-inch MacBook Pro now comes with the M2 chip, offering significant speed and efficiency gains.
Final Thoughts
The addition of the 2017 MacBook Pro models to the vintage list is a clear indication of Apple’s evolving design philosophy. While the Touch Bar was an ambitious attempt to revolutionize user interaction, it seems the tech giant is now focusing on performance and utility, taking into account user feedback and market trends.
For those who own these vintage models, it may be time to consider an upgrade, especially if hardware support is a concern. On the flip side, if you’re a collector or a fan of the Touch Bar, now might be the time to snag one of these models before they become harder to find.
