The iPhone XS Max and the iPhone 6s Plus are now classed as "vintage" hardware by Apple, while the Apple Watch Series 2 has been deemed "obsolete."
Apple has a policy of listing products as being vintage or obsolete after they have been on the market for a long time. In a November 15 update to the support page, some iPhone and Apple Watch variants have seen a change in status.
The iPhone XS Max and iPhone 6s Plus are now added to the vintage list. They are listed alongside other models, including the iPhone X, iPhone 8 and 8 Plus Red, and the original iPhone SE.
On the Apple Watch side, the Apple Watch Series 2 in Stainless Steel and Aluminum, in both sizes, are now classed as obsolete. Still on the vintage list is the Apple Watch Series 1 in Aluminum.
The designation of vintage and obsolete have specific meanings to Apple, at least when it comes to support.
After Apple has stopped distributing a product for five years, it is considered vintage. Once it passes seven years, it's considered obsolete.
Apple allows for service and parts to be obtained from Apple service providers for a minimum of five years past Apple's last distribution of the product. Service and parts can still be available, and by some laws for up to seven years.
A vintage product isn't typically serviced as easily as non-vintage items, but it becomes harder to source parts and to adequately service it. Obsolete products are not eligible for hardware servicing, with the exception of MacBook battery-only repairs for up to 10 years after last distribution in some cases.
