6 Apple devices not recommended to buy at the moment

With the holiday shopping season just around the corner, you may be eager to add some Apple products to your shopping or gift list. However, there are some Apple products that you should avoid buying right now because Apple may stop supporting them in the near future.

1. iPhone SE

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The iPhone SE is by far the most affordable way to enjoy everything the iPhone has to offer. However, Apple last updated it in early 2022, and it has a small 4.7-inch screen and Touch ID. Compared to modern iPhones, it feels dated. But that will soon change.

According to recent reports, the next-generation iPhone SE will launch as early as March 2025 and is expected to feature some significant upgrades. In addition to a larger screen, expect the new iPhone model to feature Face ID in a body similar to the iPhone 14. The phone will also feature a much faster chip and more RAM to support Apple's intelligence features.

2. iPad 10th generation

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Like the iPhone SE, the 10th-generation iPad is the least expensive way to get into Apple's iconic tablet line. However, Apple introduced this model in late 2022 with a Touch ID power button and a 10.9-inch display. As of 2024, Apple has dropped the starting price from $449 to $349.

Expect to see an updated model launch as early as spring 2025. While the tablet will retain the same design and other features, expect a significant speed boost with the A17 chip or higher. That should enable it to run Apple Intelligence features like the latest iPad mini, which is actually worth buying right now. Right now, this is the only iPad Apple sells that doesn't support Apple Intelligence.

3. Mac Studio

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The Mac Studio is a high-end desktop Mac designed for professionals and other Apple power users. Starting at $1,999, you can choose a model with a fast M2 Max or M2 Ultra chip. The base model also has 32GB of memory. A new version of the Mac is expected in 2025 with faster M4 Max and Ultra chips.

If you can't wait, consider the recently updated Mac mini. Higher-end models have an M4 Pro chip and Thunderbolt 5 ports. They also have HDMI ports and 16GB of RAM. The only thing missing from the Mac Studio is a built-in SD card slot.

4. HomePod mini

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Believe it or not, Apple released the HomePod mini four years ago in 2020 to offer a cheaper version of the HomePod to Apple fans. It's still a great way to enjoy Siri and boasts powerful sound quality in a compact design. But there's no real talk of a second-generation model in the near future.

If you can wait, the HomePod mini could be replaced by Apple's smart home controller and home hub, which recent reports say could launch as early as March 2025. It looks like a square iPad, with a focus on smart home control and security.

Apple will also offer accessories for the device, including a speaker stand that can be placed in your kitchen or nightstand. If you don't want to wait and want to spend a little more for more powerful sound, the larger second-generation HomePod is also a great option.

5. AirPods Pro 2

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The AirPods Pro 2 remain one of the most popular AirPods models available thanks to active noise cancellation and a host of great features, including a newly added suite of hearing health features and the ability to act as hearing aids.

If you're willing to wait, 2025 could usher in the next generation of earbuds. Reports say the new earbuds will offer additional health-tracking features, like heart-rate monitoring. Both the charging case and the earbuds may also get a new design.

6. Apple TV 4K

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In a sea of ​​cheap streaming devices, the Apple TV 4K stands out, and not in a good way. It starts at $129 for the Wi-Fi-only version or $149 for the 128GB version with Ethernet, easily double the price of many of its competitors.

Apple last updated the product in 2022, and it was powered by the old A15 processor. There are no exciting rumors about the next model, but expect a faster processor and even a price cut to make it more competitive. If you can't wait, consider another great streaming box for your home.

While these Apple products are still great to use, it's better to save your money and wait for updated models that have the latest and greatest features. After all, no one wants to waste money on an old Apple device that's due for a hardware refresh.

Marvin Fry

Update 09 December 2024