Apple has experienced a busy fall season, featuring a packed September event, the launch of the iPad mini 7 in mid-October, followed by an “exciting week of announcements” at the month’s end.
Alongside numerous new product announcements, several older products have been discontinued and are no longer available for purchase via the Apple Store. However, bargain hunters can still discover plenty of deals on last-gen products from third-party sellers.
#1 – iPad mini 6
A new iPad mini model was launched by Apple in October, featuring support for Apple Intelligence, compatibility with the Apple Pencil Pro, and a fix for the jelly scrolling issue present in the iPad mini 6. While the update may seem modest, it was essential after a three-year wait.
There’s not much compelling reason to opt for an older iPad mini generation, considering the lack of Apple Intelligence. Currently, no substantial deals are available for the previous generation, but the iPad mini 7 can be purchased for $459.
#2 – FineWoven iPhone cases
Last year, Apple launched their controversial FineWoven cases with the iPhone 15 as an “eco-friendly” alternative to leather. Advertised as a premium fabric, the cases fell short, being too prone to scratches and failing to deliver the expected quality.
Acknowledging the feedback, Apple has discontinued FineWoven iPhone cases for the iPhone 16 models but continues to offer FineWoven MagSafe wallets and Apple Watch bands. If you’re interested in a FineWoven case for your iPhone 15, there are various deals on Amazon, including one for the iPhone 15 Plus at around $29.
#3 – M3 MacBook Pro
In late October, Apple unveiled the new MacBook Pro featuring the M4 chip along with M4 Pro and M4 Max variants, enhanced Thunderbolt 5 capabilities on higher-end models, necessary RAM upgrades, Center Stage support, and an option for a nano-texture display.
There’s a few attractive deals available for the M3 MacBook Pros, including one at Best Buy where the entry model can be acquired for $1299—a competitive price for a 14-inch MacBook Pro, especially considering the display quality.
#4 – M2 Mac mini
October also marked the release of a significant redesign for the Mac mini, making it considerably smaller than its predecessor, with frontal I/O and M4/M4 Pro chips. This redesign increased RAM, with M4 offering 16GB by default and M4 Pro 24GB by default, establishing it as Apple’s most powerful desktop Mac.
No noteworthy deals are available on the outgoing Mac mini model, but it’s best to avoid purchasing it due to the extent of the redesign. The M4 Mac mini is currently listed at $579 on Amazon.
#5 – M3 iMac
The iMac also received an update last month, transitioning from the M3 to M4 chipset and adding extra Thunderbolt ports along with Center Stage capabilities akin to the MacBook Pro. It now offers 16GB of RAM by default, all at the starting price of $1299, along with new color options.
There aren’t any remarkable deals on the outgoing M3 iMac at this time, but you can find a $100 discount on the current model by utilizing an on-page coupon, bringing the price down to $1199 on Amazon.
#6 and 7 – iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max
Continuing the trend since the iPhone XS launch in 2018, Apple has discontinued the previous generation of flagship iPhones, meaning the iPhone 15 Pro models were retired with the launch of the iPhone 16 Pro models. However, a unique reason exists to consider purchasing a refurbished iPhone 15 Pro, as they support Apple Intelligence.
Currently, you can find a renewed premium 128GB iPhone 15 Pro for $725, and a renewed premium 256GB iPhone 15 Pro Max for $864. Amazon Renewed Premium devices come with a one-year return policy for added peace of mind.
#8 – iPhone 13
Launched in 2021, the iPhone 13 brought multiple improvements, including longer battery life, a revamped camera system, and a smaller notch. Initially priced at $799, it has seen various price reductions and hit a low of $599 before being phased out.
While Amazon does not typically offer new iPhones in the US, refurbished deals for an unlocked iPhone 13 in excellent condition start as low as $372.
#9, 10, and 11 – Lightning Magic Accessories
The latest Mac refresh this fall saw Apple transition the Magic Mouse, Magic Trackpad, and Magic Keyboard to USB-C, resulting in the discontinuation of all Lightning versions.
Some deals are available for the Lightning versions of these accessories, but I advise against purchasing them, considering they are likely to be kept for a long time. Nonetheless, the Magic Trackpad with Lightning is approximately $20 off at present.
#12 – Apple Watch Series 9
Following the release of the sleeker Apple Watch Series 10, Apple has discontinued the older Apple Watch Series 9, probably due to the Series 10 maintaining the same base price, leaving little room in the pricing structure for a model between the SE and Series 10.
Some deals can be found for the Apple Watch Series 9, but I would recommend against buying it considering the availability of Series 10 at a starting price as low as $329.
#13, 14, and 15 – Remaining Lightning AirPods
With the introduction of AirPods 4 and USB-C AirPods Max, Apple has phased out all remaining AirPods featuring a Lightning port, which includes AirPods 2, AirPods 3, and AirPods Max (Lightning). Two versions of AirPods 4 were introduced at different price points, one with noise cancellation and another without.
I would personally advise against purchasing AirPods 2 or 3 since AirPods 4 offer excellent value. The basic version is available for $119, while the noise-cancelling option is priced at $168. USB-C AirPods Pro 2, also available for $189, could be a good choice if you’re interested in noise cancellation.
Furthermore, some impressive clearance deals are available for AirPods Max (Lightning), with prices as low as $399.
While the allure of the latest technology is undeniable, I believe it’s beneficial to explore deals on the recently discontinued products.
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