As of June 11th, 2013, the iconic original iPhone smartphone with its EDGE 2G connectivity will become obsolete at Apple stores, after originally being launched back on June 29th, 2007.
The date for the cut was discovered in a leaked Apple internal email, which listed a number of devices and Apple products coming to the end of their store life.
The Legacy of the Original iPhone
The original iPhone, often referred to as the iPhone 2G, was a revolutionary device that changed the landscape of mobile technology. When it was first introduced by Steve Jobs in 2007, it combined three devices into one: a revolutionary mobile phone, a widescreen iPod with touch controls, and a breakthrough internet communications device with desktop-class email, web browsing, maps, and searching. This innovation set the stage for the modern smartphone era, influencing countless other devices and setting a new standard for mobile technology.
The Apple website explains that obsolete devices fall into the following categories:
“…those that were discontinued more than five and less than seven years ago. Apple has discontinued hardware service for vintage products with the following exception:
– Products purchased in the state of California, United States, as required by statute.
– Owners of vintage Macintosh products may obtain service and parts from Apple service providers within the state of California, United States.
– Owners of vintage iPod products in the state of California may obtain service from Apple Retail Stores or by contacting AppleCare at 1-800-APL-CARE.”
Impact on Other Apple Products
In addition to the original iPhone becoming obsolete, several other Apple products will also be categorized as obsolete. These include the 2006 Xserve, mid-2007 iMacs, and the original Mac Pro. Each of these devices played a significant role in Apple’s history and contributed to the company’s reputation for innovation and quality.
The 2006 Xserve was Apple’s first rack-mounted server, designed for enterprise use. It provided a powerful and flexible solution for businesses looking to integrate Apple technology into their IT infrastructure. The mid-2007 iMacs introduced a sleek, aluminum design that has become a hallmark of Apple’s desktop computers. The original Mac Pro, launched in 2006, was a high-performance workstation that catered to professionals in fields such as video editing, graphic design, and software development.
As these devices become obsolete, it is a reminder of the rapid pace of technological advancement and the continuous evolution of Apple’s product lineup. While these products may no longer receive official support from Apple, they remain important milestones in the company’s history and continue to be cherished by enthusiasts and collectors.
The transition to obsolescence also highlights the importance of staying current with technology. As new devices and software are released, older products may no longer be compatible with the latest features and security updates. For users of these older devices, it may be time to consider upgrading to newer models to ensure continued functionality and support.
Source: TUAW
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