The iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus, once flagship devices for Apple, have officially been designated as "vintage" by the tech giant. This classification, which applies to products discontinued more than five years ago but less than seven, signifies a reduction in official support, particularly regarding hardware repairs. While these phones may still receive critical security updates, they will no longer get major iOS version upgrades, effectively marking them as aging relics in the fast-paced world of smartphone technology.
The Inevitable March of Time: From Flagship to "Vintage"
Launched in September 2017 alongside the revolutionary iPhone X, the iPhone 8 and 8 Plus represented the pinnacle of Apple's classic iPhone design, retaining the iconic home button and Touch ID. For years, they served as reliable workhorses for millions of users worldwide. However, in the relentless cycle of technological advancement, even the most popular devices eventually reach a point where they are no longer considered "current." For the iPhone 8 series, that time has come, as Apple recently added them to its "vintage" product list.
This designation, made in May 2025, means that the iPhone 8 (specifically the 64GB and 256GB models, with the 128GB variant potentially being added later due to a longer sales period) has passed the five-year mark since it was last distributed for sale by Apple.
What "Vintage" Status Entails for iPhone 8 Owners
For owners still clinging to their iPhone 8 or 8 Plus, the "vintage" label carries specific implications:
Limited Hardware Repairs: Apple Stores and Apple Authorized Service Providers (AASPs) can still offer repairs for vintage devices. However, this is strictly subject to parts availability. If the necessary components are no longer in stock, an official repair might not be possible. This means relying on third-party repair shops, which may use unofficial parts and void any remaining Apple service eligibility.
No More Major iOS Updates: The iPhone 8 and 8 Plus received their final major iOS upgrade with iOS 16. They will not be able to upgrade to newer versions like iOS 17, iOS 18, or beyond. While Apple often provides security patches and minor bug fixes for devices running older iOS versions for a period, users will miss out on new features, performance enhancements, and the latest app compatibility that comes with newer operating systems.
App Compatibility Challenges: As app developers increasingly optimize their applications for newer iOS versions and hardware capabilities, older iPhones running outdated software may encounter compatibility issues. Some apps might stop receiving updates, or newer apps might not function at all, limiting the phone's utility over time.
Transition to "Obsolete": The "vintage" status is a stepping stone to "obsolete" status. A product is deemed "obsolete" when Apple stopped distributing it for sale more than seven years ago. Once a device is obsolete, Apple discontinues all hardware service, and parts are no longer supplied. This means the iPhone 8 series will likely become fully obsolete by 2027.
The End of an Era?
While the iPhone 8 might technically be considered "old" by tech standards, its robust build quality, Touch ID, and sufficient performance for basic tasks have kept it relevant for many users. The fact that it received iOS updates for six years after its launch speaks to Apple's strong software support cycle.
However, for those seeking the latest features, cutting-edge performance, and continued full Apple support, the "vintage" designation serves as a clear signal that it's time to consider an upgrade. The iPhone 8, while a testament to Apple's engineering at the time, is increasingly becoming a device for basic communication, light Browse, and those who prefer its classic design over the newer, all-screen models. Its journey from a state-of-the-art smartphone to a "vintage" item underscores the relentless pace of innovation in the mobile technology landscape.