The Age of Mac

Client Notes

Recently, I helped Mary and Michael resolve printer issues, either by resetting the connection of a multi-port hub or by ensuring the cable is connected to the correct port. I’ve also worked with Sheryl and Sharon to recover storage on their Macs related to Photos and avoid having to replace the computer — although both are nearing the point of considering an upgrade.

Plus, I continue to support users like Patricia, Lily, and Rebecca in developing stronger password management. Until 1Password can offer a more integrated approach, I’ve settled on a standard of using a spreadsheet to review and consolidate logins before importing.

And, I revealed to Jeff and June that their Macs, both running macOS 14.6.1 from two years ago, were failing to inform them of software updates — which may have been a glitch in that version. I empowered them to upgrade to macOS 26, which resolved some issues they were having.

Vintage vs. Obsolete

Apple’s service policy delineates when the company considers a product “vintage” or “obsolete.” Vintage devices are those not sold for 5–7 years; obsolete devices have not been sold for more than 7 years. Devices that fit in either category are listed on the same page. As such, the newest Macs considered obsolete were released in 2015 and the newest ones considered vintage were released in 2020.

More importantly, though, no Mac with an Apple Silicon chip is yet vintage and it may be a while before that becomes true. That’s because until Apple announced MacBook Neo last month, it continued to stock Walmart with the M1 MacBook Air. This was one of the first Apple Silicon Macs, released way back in fall 2020.

As such, per its policy, Apple will continue to stock service parts for this “old” Mac until it reaches the ripe age of 13. Plus, Apple offers battery service for Mac laptops not sold for up to 10 years. So, the M1 MacBook Air may be 16 before Apple expires that offer and considers the computer truly obsolete.

The Age of Mac

So, you’re wondering at what age it’s time to retire your Mac? First, it’s worth noting that the vintage vs. obsolete question doesn’t precisely align with how long Apple:

1. Supports a given Mac with the latest macOS
2. Relegates it to an older version that only receives security updates
3. Drops it from software support entirely

Second, if you’re rolling strong on an Intel-based model from before fall 2020 and have no conscious need to upgrade, you’re welcome to stick with it. However, now might be a good time to consider something new, or at least newer, if you:

1. Hope to gain access to new software features
2. Desire deeper integration or alignment with other devices, such as a newer iPhone
3. Want the latest security updates to protect your online activities

In the last decade, most of my clients with Intel-based Macs have found the need to upgrade after 8–10 years. So, it’s interesting to consider that an Apple Silicon Mac might easily last 12–15 years and retain current macOS support until at least age 10.

In a New Age, What Mac to Buy?

There are so many considerations of what Mac is right for you and your computing needs. Plus, there’s a pretty wide spectrum of Macs to consider, including three laptop models and three desktop models. Here’s how I might begin to filter these into a recommendation for you.

1. I find biometric authentication such a boon in my computing experience and am only willing to consider keyboards that include Touch ID. Only if you no longer have viable fingerprints might you skip this feature. If that’s you and you still want a laptop for portability away from home, I would recommend wearing an Apple Watch for the benefit of authenticating without having to type a password.
2. When the model configuration you want is available from Apple’s Certified Refurbished listing, I usually recommend that first. Apple’s filter on those pages is tough to navigate, though, so visit Refurb Tracker for an easier search.
3. Beyond that, we start delving into your specific needs, preferences, and expectations of how technology should work for you. We would discuss what applications you use, what capabilities you require, what peripherals you need to connect, etc.

How to Really Choose

Do you think your general computing needs are pretty basic — email, web, documents, photos? Do you want a laptop but don’t need a big display? Apple’s new MacBook Neo might be the perfect fit.

However, if you’ve had Macs for decades and migrated a lot of data from one to the next, you may need more storage than a Neo currently offers. Thus, you’d probably buy a MacBook Air. Of course, there are also reasons to envision a MacBook Pro, iMac, or other model in front of you instead.

I’m happy to surface all the relevant criteria embedded in your experience so you can find a best fit. Where appropriate, this might also include visiting an Apple Store to put your hands on models currently available. The result could be a new unit or one with some age.

I’ll then:

• Support you with data migration and getting acquainted
• Empower you to discover valuable features, settings, and applications
• Coach you toward efficiency and/or flexibility such as around customization, keyboard shortcuts, and device integration
• Help you develop solid strategies for storage, organization, backup, password management, and more