Apple’s 2025 product lineup saw fewer major launches compared to previous years, with only two key events amid reports of delays tied to the revamped Siri software. While the pace felt restrained, the company still introduced meaningful updates across iPhones, iPads, Macs, Watches, and accessories—often replacing older models with more capable successors. These changes streamlined the Apple Store offerings, prioritizing devices with Apple Intelligence support, enhanced performance, and modern features. Discontinuations followed a familiar pattern: clearing space for iterative improvements that better align with Apple’s ecosystem vision.
The shifts reflect strategic decisions to consolidate lines, boost AI integration, and address user feedback on battery life, thermal management, and design. From ditching legacy iPhones to refreshing high-end accessories, Apple pruned its catalog to emphasize forward-looking tech. Here’s a comprehensive look at everything discontinued in 2025 and the replacements that took their place.
iPhone Lineup Overhaul
Apple aggressively refreshed its smartphone portfolio, discontinuing five iPhone models to make way for AI-ready devices. The iPhone SE series vanished entirely, replaced by the budget-friendly iPhone 16e with its iPhone 14-esque design, A18-like chip performance, and full Apple Intelligence compatibility. This move also prompted the retirement of the iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 base models, creating a unified lineup where every option supports on-device AI features.
By September’s iPhone 17 launch, Apple ended the non-Pro Plus era—the iPhone 16 Plus was the final large-screen standard model. Standard Pro models (iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max) gave way to the iPhone 17 Pro duo, featuring a sleek glass-aluminum build, advanced vapor chamber cooling for sustained performance, and rumored under-display Face ID. Looking ahead, whispers of an iPhone 17e, iPhone 18 Pro series, and Apple’s debut foldable phone promise even more disruption by 2026-2027.
iPad and Apple Watch Refresh
The tablet category saw quick turnovers, starting with the 2022 iPad (10th gen, A14 chip) getting the boot early in the year. Its successor adopted the A16 Bionic for snappier performance while remaining the sole iPad without Apple Intelligence—keeping it affordable for casual users. The iPad Air lineup accelerated dramatically: the M2 model, barely a year old, was discontinued for the M3-powered version, echoing past rapid cycles like the iPad 3-to-4 switch after just seven months.
Apple Watch updates followed tradition but with bolder upgrades. The Series 10 bowed out for the Series 11, while the 2023 Ultra 2 finally retired in favor of the Ultra 3—packing 5G connectivity, satellite messaging, and a brighter, more efficient display. The prior Apple Watch SE exited stage left for a revamped budget model boasting Always-On Retina, wrist temperature sensing, S10 silicon, and cellular independence, elevating it from entry-level to everyday essential.
Mac Updates Amid restraint
Mac releases stayed conservative with just three models, a departure from Apple Silicon’s explosive early years. The MacBook Air duo (13- and 15-inch) upgraded to M4 chips, gained a fresh light blue hue, and extended battery life for all-day unplugged use. Surprisingly, the long-dormant Mac Studio emerged from hiding after nearly two years, swapping M2 Max/Ultra for M4 Max and M3 Ultra variants—Apple clarified that not every chip generation gets an Ultra, though M5 Ultra rumors swirl for 2026.
The entry-level MacBook Pro adopted the M5 chip ahead of higher-end siblings delayed to early next year. Early benchmarks highlight the M5’s leaps in graphics rendering and AI workloads, positioning it as a creative powerhouse. With a stacked 2026 roadmap including M5 Pro/Max refreshes, Apple appears to be pacing its silicon rollout for maximum impact.
Accessories and Vision Pro Evolution
Accessories received targeted upgrades without overwhelming the lineup. The iPad Air gained a dedicated M3-optimized Magic Keyboard, shedding the outdated iPad Pro hand-me-down. MagSafe chargers evolved to Qi2.2 standard, delivering up to 25W speeds for iPhone 17 compatibility and broader wireless ecosystem support.
AirPods Pro 2 exited for the third-generation model, retaining the H2 chip but refining internals for superior audio fidelity, plus a novel heart rate sensor for fitness tracking. Battery life improved noticeably, ensuring longer workouts without interruption. Finally, the original Apple Vision Pro was phased out for an M5 iteration—offering smoother app performance, a higher-refresh display, and a comfier dual-knit headband. Core challenges like bulk, battery endurance, price, and app ecosystem persist, shifting focus toward lighter AR glasses in development.
Discontinued vs. Replacement Quick Guide
| Discontinued Product | Replacement | Key Upgrade |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone SE / 14 / 15 / 16 Plus / 16 Pro series | iPhone 16e / 17 / 17 Pro series | AI support, vapor cooling, foldable tease |
| iPad 10th Gen / M2 iPad Air | A16 iPad / M3 iPad Air | Faster chips, rapid refresh cycle |
| Apple Watch Series 10 / Ultra 2 / SE | Series 11 / Ultra 3 / New SE | 5G, satellite, Always-On, sensors |
| MacBook Air M3 / Mac Studio M2 / MacBook Pro (prior) | M4 Air / M4 Max & M3 Ultra Studio / M5 Pro | Bigger batteries, graphics/AI boosts |
| AirPods Pro 2 / Original Vision Pro / Old MagSafe | AirPods Pro 3 / M5 Vision Pro / Qi2.2 Charger | HR sensor, better display/band, 25W charging |
Looking Ahead to 2026
These 2025 discontinuations set the stage for an explosive follow-up year, potentially featuring AR glasses, expanded smart home hubs, iPhone foldables, and full M5 Mac rollouts. Apple Intelligence integration will deepen across devices, with Siri 2.0 enabling more contextual, multi-device experiences. For shoppers, the streamlined current lineup means easier choices—every active product now prioritizes longevity, performance, and future-proofing.
While 2025 felt transitional, it quietly weeded out underperformers, paving the way for innovations that could redefine categories. Whether upgrading now or holding for next year’s fireworks, Apple’s deliberate pruning ensures a cohesive, high-quality ecosystem.
