Apple's Watch-Sized iPod Nano is Officially Obsolete - MacRumors
Skip to Content

Apple's Watch-Sized iPod Nano is Officially Obsolete

by

The sixth-generation iPod nano is officially obsolete, meaning Apple will no longer repair or service the portable media player.

ipod nano 6g 6th sixth gen
Apple added the sixth-generation iPod nano to its internal vintage and obsolete products list on August 30, according to a memo distributed to Apple Stores and Apple Authorized Service Providers seen by MacRumors.

Apple repairs and services products for up to five years after they are no longer manufactured. The sixth-generation iPod nano was released in September 2010 and discontinued in September 2012.

As required by statute, sixth-generation iPod nano owners in California may still obtain service from Apple Stores or by contacting AppleCare at 1-800-APL-CARE. The extended coverage period will likely end in September 2019.

The sixth-generation iPod nano was notable for its square-shaped design. A number of third-party straps and accessories were released that essentially turned the device into a very early version of the Apple Watch.

ipod nano 6th gen watch strap
Unlike the fifth-generation iPod nano, the sixth-generation model lacked a click wheel, video camera, and speaker. Instead, it had a touchscreen and adopted the iPod shuffle's clip to make it wearable on the go.

Apple returned to a rectangular design for the seventh-generation iPod nano, and added a Home button to the device. The design remained the same until Apple discontinued the entire iPod nano and iPod shuffle lineups in July.

Apple has yet to list the sixth-generation iPod nano on its public vintage and obsolete products list, but the device will likely be added soon.

Related Forum: iPod touch and iPod

Top Rated Comments

Superhappytree Avatar
117 months ago
I actually think this made for a better watch than the Apple Watch itself and looked much better at that. The clock faces were better and looked more realistic (you know, like watch faces are supposed to rather than flat?). A big example of why skeumorphism is superior:







The gears actually moved in the background with the black and green one on the far right (top pic). We’re missing small touches and attention to detail like that.

Attachment Image

Attachment Image

Attachment Image
Score: 15 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Slix Avatar
117 months ago
Mine is still seeing pretty consistent use. I still think it's one of the best iPods to use while on the go; just clip it on and forget about it.

I used mine for a walk just about an hour ago!



Attachment Image
Score: 14 Votes (Like | Disagree)
117 months ago
Sad to see it go. This was as an excellent little device that was compact and perfect for running.
Score: 14 Votes (Like | Disagree)
117 months ago
Such a great little device!! I loved the two finger twist screen to turn it any direction. And I used to remember wearing it on wrist! It's kinda weird seeing the Apple Watch now when that was out so many years ago - truely a device way ahead of its time! Classic Jobs era stuff..
Score: 10 Votes (Like | Disagree)
117 months ago
If it still functions, it is not obsolete.
Score: 8 Votes (Like | Disagree)
Pakaku Avatar
117 months ago
The only Apple Watch with a headphone jack.
Score: 8 Votes (Like | Disagree)

Popular Stories

iPhone X 2022 Upload

Apple Says iPhone X is Now Obsolete

Thursday August 13, 2026 1:16 pm PDT by
Apple today added the iPhone X to its public-facing obsolete products list, according to an updated support document on its website. When an iPhone becomes obsolete, it is no longer eligible for repairs or other hardware service at Apple Stores or Apple Authorized Service Providers. Apple considers a product to be obsolete once seven years have passed since it stopped distributing the...
Four iPhone 18 Pro Colors Mock Feature

iPhone 18 Pro: Pre-Orders and Release Date

Sunday August 16, 2026 8:24 pm PDT by
Apple has yet to reveal when the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone Ultra will be announced and released, but the dates usually follow a familiar pattern. As usual, the event is expected to take place in the first half of September. Labor Day falls on September 7 this year. The last time the holiday was on that day was in 2020, but the iPhone event that year was delayed until October due to the...
iPhone 18 Pro Rumored Colors

What's Coming in September: New iPhones, Apple Watches and More

Thursday August 13, 2026 4:20 pm PDT by
Apple will introduce at least five new devices at its iPhone-centric event next month, and it's also possible we'll get devices waiting on Siri AI like the Apple TV. iPhone 18 Pro The iPhone 18 Pro is going to look like the iPhone 17 Pro, but with a smaller Dynamic Island. It's getting some internal updates, including a new Wide camera with a variable aperture for more control over lighting ...