(Web Desk) - From smartphones to earphones, Apple is known for its vast range of products.
But if you still use this popular device, it might be time for an upgrade.
Apple has officially added the Apple Watch Series 1 to its 'obsolete' list.
Despite its name, the Apple Watch Series 1 isn't actually the original Apple Watch.
Instead, it was released in 2016 as a second-generation model, with a slightly modified chip inside.
Worryingly, its new classification as 'obsolete' means that users will be left without any support if something goes wrong.
'Apple discontinues all hardware service for obsolete products, and service providers cannot order parts for obsolete products.'
While Apple claims its products are 'designed to be long-lasting', it gradually begins removing support five years after they launch.
Products are considered 'vintage' when Apple stopped distributing them more than five and less than seven years ago.
Devices are then dropped to the 'obsolete' when they pass the seven-year mark.
The original Apple Watch was released in 2015, before the Series 1 and Series 2 were released a year later.
Strangely, Apple already declared the Series 2 to be obsolete in 2024, but is only now relegating the Series 1 to the dreaded list.
Although Apple releases several devices to feverish fanfare every year, even more are quietly consigned to the technology scrap heap.
But environmental campaigners believe a lifetime of less than a decade isn't reasonable for a tech device retailing several hundreds of pounds.
Tech companies including Apple have faced fierce criticism for fuelling an 'e-waste crisis', where piles of electronic waste are building up in landfill.
After a device is discarded and e-waste is warmed up, toxic chemicals are released into the air damaging the atmosphere.
E-waste in landfills can also seep toxic materials seep into groundwater, affecting animals and plants.
'Electronic waste is the world's fastest growing waste stream and represents a global crisis,' said Nathan Proctor, senior director of Public Interest Research Group's right to repair campaign.
'Companies that use software to prevent compatible spare parts from working fully make this problem worse, while harming consumers and undermining local repair shops.'