My family collection is filled with perfectly working Apple gadgets, three iPads and macbook pros. Some of these I still use while others have become unusable due to an OS and app abandonment by Apple. Although I recognize that Apple is doing something along these lines, I think that it should take a long look at their strategy regarding older devices that become obsolete way before their hardware life time. Forcing your customers to purchase new devices can be justified but the problem of older hardware left behind is a massive issue that works against Apple, primarily on the software security. One solution could be, for example, an option to trade in an old device that was covered with AppleCare, the cost of which over 2+ years has created a decent income for Apple to cover the cost of subsidizing the future trade-in. I am not sure what percent of devices are covered by AppleCare but if that number become to encompass a majority of all Apple devices this could be a potentially significant increase in revenue. Other solutions might be generated to stimulate hardware upgrades without forcing customers grind their teeth in anger.
