Apple recently confirmed that it will discontinue software support for 16 of its devices this autumn, following the introduction of new operating systems at last week’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC). This decision affects a range of its products, including several models of the Apple Watch, iPad, Mac, and Apple TV.

The major operating systems involved are watchOS 27, iPadOS 27, macOS 27 Golden Gate, and tvOS 27. While many product lines are seeing substantial reductions in support, iPhone users will continue to benefit, as support for devices remains unchanged from iOS 26.

Devices Losing Support

One of the most significant changes is in the Apple Watch lineup, with five models losing support under the new watchOS 27. This includes the Apple Watch Series 6, Series 7, Series 8, the first-generation Apple Watch Ultra, and the second-generation Apple Watch SE. This marks one of the largest support reductions in the history of the Apple Watch, affecting multiple generations of the device in a single update cycle.

For the iPad, the updates will no longer support the iPad Air (3rd generation), iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation), iPad Pro 11-inch (1st generation), iPad (8th generation), and iPad mini (5th generation). These devices will not receive the new features and updates available in iPadOS 27.

Mac users are not left unaffected, as macOS 27 Golden Gate will cease support for several Intel-based Macs. Specifically, the update will drop compatibility for the MacBook Pro 16-inch (2019), MacBook Pro 13-inch (2020 with four Thunderbolt ports), iMac (2020), and Mac Pro (2019). In addition, the Apple TV HD from 2015 and the first-generation Apple TV 4K from 2017 will also be excluded from the supported list for tvOS 27.

Reasons Behind the Changes

The decision to discontinue support for these devices is reportedly linked to hardware limitations. Apple’s newer operating systems require advanced chips to deliver enhanced performance, security, and features. For instance, the latest Apple Watch models need faster processors such as the S9 and S10, while newer iPads rely on the A14 Bionic and M-series chips. Similarly, the latest Macs require Apple Silicon M-series chips.

While older devices may continue to function, they are likely to lack the processing power necessary for future updates. However, users should note that losing software support does not render these devices unusable. Owners can still use their devices, albeit without access to new features introduced in the recent operating systems.

Apple generally continues to provide security updates for past devices for a period following the launch of significant updates. The new operating systems are expected to be available to consumers later this year, likely in September, after completing the beta testing phase.

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