Apple Classifies Original Apple TV 4K as Vintage, Limiting Official Repairs

    Apple has officially added the original Apple TV 4K model, released in 2017, to its list of vintage devices. Under the company’s rules, products discontinued more than 5 years ago receive this status. The change does not affect the device’s operation, and it can continue to be used as before. However, official repair options will be more limited if a malfunction occurs.    Apple moves products discontinued more than 7 years ago into the obsolete devices category. Official service is virtually unavailable for such models. Vintage devices, however, can be repaired if replacement parts are available. Therefore, owners of faulty Apple TV 4K devices should not delay contacting an official service provider.    The 2017 Apple TV 4K model received a total of 9 years of software support. The final update for the device was tvOS 26.6, released in July 2026. The Apple TV HD, released in 2015, also received the same update and was supported for approximately 11 years. The series also includes a newer Apple TV 4K model released in 2022.    The status change came ahead of the new smart home devices Apple will unveil on October 13. According to reports, the expected products will include at least 1 new Apple TV device. The model’s name, technical specifications and price have not yet been announced. Those whose 2017 model is still working can continue using it without buying a new device.