The Conclusion of an Epoch: Apple Announces Final MacBook Pro with Optical Drive as Obsolete
In a significant development signifying the conclusion of an epoch, Apple has formally announced the mid-2012 13-inch MacBook Pro, the last model to contain an optical drive, as obsolete. This feature enabled users to play CDs or DVDs.
The Demise of the Optical Drive
The mid-2012 13-inch MacBook Pro was discontinued in October 2016, marking it only a matter of time before it was declared obsolete. Apple labels a product as obsolete when it has ceased selling them for over seven years. Once a product is deemed obsolete, Apple halts all hardware services for it, and service providers are prohibited from ordering parts for it.
Although initially, the decision to omit an optical drive from future MacBook Pro models was contentious, it’s evident that the need for optical drives has dwindled for most users. Many Windows laptops have likewise ceased to include them.
The Final Remnant of Optical Drives
Despite the declared obsolescence of the mid-2012 13-inch MacBook Pro, Apple continues to sell an external optical drive known as SuperDrive. This device can read and burn CDs and DVDs, but it hasn’t received any updates in years. It still utilizes USB-A, which is no longer included in most Mac hardware. As a result, if you possess Apple’s external CD/DVD drive, you’ll likely require an adapter to use it with your contemporary Mac.
Conclusion
The declaration of the mid-2012 13-inch MacBook Pro as obsolete is a stark indication of the progression of technology. Optical drives, once a vital component of laptops, are now largely redundant for most users. As we say goodbye to the final MacBook Pro with an optical drive, we also recognize the swift advancement of technology and the movement away from physical media.
Questions & Answers
1. What does it signify when Apple announces a product as obsolete?
When Apple announces a product as obsolete, it implies that the product has been discontinued for more than seven years. Apple ceases all hardware services for obsolete products, and service providers are prohibited from ordering parts for these items.
2. Can I continue to use my old MacBook Pro with an optical drive?
Yes, you can continue to use your old MacBook Pro with an optical drive. However, it will no longer receive any hardware services from Apple or any software updates.
3. Does Apple continue to sell any products with an optical drive?
Apple continues to sell an external optical drive referred to as SuperDrive. However, it hasn’t been updated in years and uses USB-A, which most contemporary Macs no longer include.
4. Why did Apple discontinue including optical drives in their laptops?
The decision to discontinue including optical drives in their laptops was likely due to the shift away from physical media. With the advent of digital downloads and streaming services, the requirement for optical drives has significantly decreased.
