Apple recently updated its official support list and moved the first-generation iPhone SE (2016) into the “obsolete” category.
What went down
The original iPhone SE launched in March 2016 and was discontinued in September 2018.
On December 1, 2025, Apple added that model to the list of products that are now “obsolete.”
Obsolete status means the device is no longer eligible for hardware repairs, battery replacements, or parts support through Apple Stores or Apple-authorized service providers worldwide.
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Why Apple Does This
Apple defines “obsolete” as devices for which it stopped distributing parts or services more than seven years after they stopped being sold. Once a device crosses that threshold, official support ends.
Given that the iPhone SE 2016 stopped being sold in 2018, it fits that timeline.
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What This Means for Owners
If you’re using a first-gen iPhone SE:
You can’t get official Apple repairs or replacement parts anymore. Battery swaps, screen repairs, internal fixes — they’re off the table from Apple’s end.
If your phone fails you, you’ll need to rely on third-party repair shops or independent technicians.
Continued software support was already unlikely: the iPhone SE (2016) uses the older A9 chip, and it’s unlikely to get modern iOS updates or features designed for newer hardware.
If you hold sentimental value to “small phone form factors,” know that this generation is officially past Apple’s support window.
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Should You Keep Using an Obsolete iPhone SE?
That depends on what you need.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
✅ Cases where it still makes sense
As a basic phone for calls, texts, light web browsing — if it’s functional and you don’t care about new features.
As a backup / secondary phone, especially if you want something small, simple, and inexpensive.
As a dedicated device for light-duty tasks (e.g. MP3 player, alarm clock, minimalistic phone).
❌ Cases where it’s probably better to upgrade
If you rely on your iPhone for critical communication, apps, banking, or anything security-sensitive — older hardware and the end of official support increase risk.
If you care about performance, battery longevity, compatibility with modern apps and iOS updates.
If a hardware repair is needed — finding parts may be difficult, and you may have to accept third-party fixes of uncertain quality.
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Broader Context: Why This Happens — And What It Reflects
Tech companies (not just Apple) routinely sunset older devices. Hardware ages, parts wear out, and manufacturers prioritize newer models.
This move underscores how rapidly smartphone design and support cycles move. A phone that was “modern” in 2016 is now considered obsolete in 2025.
For owners, this brings a practical question: do you keep using legacy devices, or get ahead of depreciation and potential failure?
There’s also an environmental / e-waste angle: many older phones become disposable once official support vanishes. Users who want to keep them running must lean on independent repair or repurpose the device.
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Final Thoughts
The iPhone SE (2016) served well as an affordable, compact iPhone option. It brought an iPhone with Touch ID and a 4-inch screen to people who preferred small form factors — and at a budget-friendly price. But the march of technology and business realities catches up eventually.
For owners of the 2016 SE, this is a signal: it might still work for now, but you’re on borrowed time. If it’s your main phone — especially for anything important — this is a strong case for upgrading. If it’s a backup or a nostalgic small-phone, you might still squeeze out some useful months or years — but with eyes wide open.
Feel free to share this post with anyone in your network still using the old iPhone SE.
