Apple Confirms iPhone 17 Event: Six Devices May Be Discontinued—Key Takeaways

Apple has confirmed the date for its upcoming iPhone 17 event, where significant changes to its product lineup are expected. As the company prepares to unveil its next-generation devices, six current products face potential discontinuation.
Tl;dr
- iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max to be discontinued soon.
- Apple Watch Series 10, Ultra 2 likely removed from lineup.
- Discounted models available briefly through select retailers.
A Shifting Landscape for iPhone and Apple Watch Lineups
As anticipation builds for the launch of the new iPhone 17 range, eyes are not just fixed on what’s coming, but also on which familiar faces are about to vanish from shelves. The annual refresh orchestrated by Apple always brings with it a ripple effect: older generations quietly bow out, making way for the latest innovation.
The Fate of Existing iPhones
This time around, the impending arrival of the iPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max spells an immediate end to their predecessors—the iPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max. Historically, as soon as a new “Pro” generation is announced, production of last year’s models ceases almost overnight. On the official Apple Store, these outgoing devices are expected to disappear in lockstep with the opening of preorders for their successors. It’s worth noting, however, that some units may linger at select carriers or third-party retailers. But those opportunities will almost certainly evaporate quickly—availability tends to dwindle as demand spikes for discounted stock.
Meanwhile, things look a bit different for standard versions. Typically, non-Pro models like the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus remain available for another year at a slightly reduced price point. In contrast, anyone eyeing last year’s standard models—the iPhone 15 and 15 Plus—should act fast; their retirement from official channels seems imminent.
The Smartwatch Shakeup
Smartphones aren’t the only devices undergoing a transition. The upcoming September 9th event is expected to introduce not just new phones but also an update on wearables: the anticipated debut of the Apple Watch Series 11, with persistent rumors swirling about an Ultra 3 as well. This likely means current staples such as the Apple Watch Series 10, and potentially even the Ultra 2, could soon vanish from Apple’s official listings. As for the SE variant? Its fate remains unclear without word of a direct successor.
Catching Deals Before Stocks Run Dry
For consumers hoping to capitalize on this period of transition, a handful of quick tips might prove useful:
- Bargain pricing: Substantial discounts often pop up as retailers clear remaining inventory.
- Limited availability: These deals rarely last long due to constrained stock.
Ultimately, as Apple‘s product lines evolve once again, there’s little room for hesitation if you have your heart set on an outgoing model. The market’s next chapter will reward both vigilance and speed—a fleeting window before yesterday’s icons become tomorrow’s collector’s items.