Apple recently hosted its most significant product launch event of the year, unveiling seven new devices: iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, Apple Watch Series 9, Apple Watch Ultra 2, and AirPods Pro with a USB-C port.
Amid the introduction of these new products, Apple has also discontinued several existing ones. Some of these products were discontinued due to low demand (like the iPhone mini), while others no longer aligned with Apple’s corporate values (such as leather accessories).
Here, we’ll discuss five Apple products that have been discontinued following the launch of the iPhone 15 series, as reported by The Independent.
Apple: iPhone mini
In 2020, Apple introduced its first mini-sized phone, the iPhone 12 mini. A year later, they released its successor, the iPhone 13 mini. However, with the launch of the iPhone 14 series, Apple discontinued the mini variant, replacing it with the iPhone 14 Plus. The iPhone 13 mini remained in Apple’s product lineup until the iPhone 15 launch. Now, Apple no longer sells the iPhone 13 mini, and it appears there won’t be a successor.
In addition to the iPhone 13 mini, Apple also phased out the iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max, and iPhone 12 from its product offerings after the arrival of the iPhone 15 series.
Apple: Lightning Port and Accessories
The most significant surprise with the iPhone 15 series is the replacement of the Lightning port with USB-C. After over a decade, Apple has finally followed other smartphone manufacturers and adopted USB-C for the iPhone, prompted by new regulations from the European Union.
With this port change, several Apple accessories that relied on the Lightning port have been discontinued. This includes products like the MagSafe Battery Pack and MagSafe Duo Charger, which were initially released alongside the iPhone 12.
AirPods with Lightning Port
The iPhone 15 series isn’t the only Apple device transitioning from the Lightning port to USB-C in the latest event. The second-generation AirPods Pro now come with a charging case that uses a USB-C port.
In addition to adopting a new connector, AirPods Pro 2 also brings two upgrades: improved case durability, now rated at IP54, and support for lossless audio.
Mute Switch
The mute switch, located on the left side of the iPhone, has been a significant part of the device since the first generation. However, this iconic button is no longer present on the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max.
Instead, Apple has introduced an “action button” on the left side of the iPhone 15 Pro. This button can still be used to mute notifications but can also be configured to activate other shortcuts as per the user’s preferences.
The mute switch remains available on the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus. However, Apple typically inherits innovations from the previous year’s Pro models to the standard iPhone variants, so it wouldn’t be surprising if the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus also feature the action button.
Leather Accessories
Sustainability became one of Apple’s key focuses at the iPhone 15 launch event. One step they took to become a more environmentally friendly company was to stop producing accessories made of leather.
Apple announced that no new accessories would be made from leather, and existing leather accessories would gradually be phased out. Instead, Apple introduced a lineup of iPhone cases and Apple Watch bands made from a new material called FineWoven.
Conclusion
Apple’s decision to discontinue certain products following the release of the iPhone 15 series reflects the company’s commitment to evolving its product lineup and aligning it with sustainability goals and consumer demands. The shift to USB-C, removal of iconic features like the mute switch, and the transition away from leather accessories all demonstrate Apple’s dedication to staying at the forefront of innovation and environmental responsibility.