Apple has quietly removed a large number of older products from its stores during 2025. The changes affect iPhones, Macs, iPads, Apple Watches, and AirPods. This move shows Apple is pushing hard toward newer designs and devices that can support its next-generation software features, especially AI-based tools.
iPhone Plus Series Officially Ends
One of the biggest changes is the end of the iPhone Plus lineup. Apple originally introduced Plus models to offer a large display at a lower price than Pro models. However, the company has now discontinued the Plus series completely.
In its place, Apple has launched the iPhone Air, which focuses on a thinner and lighter design. Unlike the Plus models, the iPhone Air prioritises looks and portability over battery life, which has sparked mixed reactions from users.
As expected, Apple has also stopped selling last year’s flagship models. The iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max have been removed from stores to push buyers toward the new iPhone 17 series.
Apple Streamlines Mac and iPad Lineups
Apple has also made major changes to its Mac lineup. Both M2 and M3 MacBook Air models have been discontinued. This is unusual, as Apple normally keeps older MacBooks available at lower prices.
Instead, Apple is now selling only the MacBook Air with the M4 chip, starting at the same $999 price. The move simplifies the lineup and ensures all new Macs can handle advanced AI features.
The Mac Studio lineup has also been refreshed. Apple has removed versions powered by the M2 Max and M2 Ultra chips, replacing them with models using M4 Max and M3 Ultra processors.
On the iPad side, Apple has discontinued the iPad 10, which launched in 2022. It has been replaced by the iPad 11, powered by the A16 chip. This upgrade ensures that even Apple’s most affordable iPad now supports Apple Intelligence, something the older A14 chip could not do.
Apple Watch and AirPods Get New Generations
Apple has refreshed its wearable lineup as well. The Apple Watch Ultra 2 has been replaced by the Ultra 3, which comes with a faster processor and improved charging speeds.
Similarly, the Apple Watch Series 10 and Watch SE 2 have been discontinued and replaced by the Series 11 and SE 3.
In audio products, Apple has removed the AirPods Pro 2 to make room for the AirPods Pro 3. While the new earbuds keep the same $249 price and offer better noise cancellation, some early users have complained about discomfort and durability issues with the redesigned ear tips.
Why Apple Is Making These Changes
This large-scale cleanup shows Apple’s focus on simplifying its product lineup and moving everything to newer chips. Supporting fewer processors helps Apple reduce costs and ensures all devices meet the requirements for AI-powered features.
The removal of the iPhone Plus also suggests Apple believes thin and stylish phones may sell better than large, battery-focused models. However, this puts pressure on the iPhone Air to succeed, especially among users who preferred the Plus for its long battery life.
What This Means for Buyers in 2026
With older models gone, Apple now offers fewer low-cost options than before. Buyers looking for cheaper Apple devices will mostly be pushed toward newer base models, rather than discounted older ones.
As Apple heads into 2026, its lineup is cleaner, more powerful, and more future-ready—but also less friendly for budget-focused customers.
