· Desk editor: Daniel Mercer · · 3 sources ·Updated

Apple closes official Support Community forum on November 20

Apple is permanently shutting down its online Support Community forum on November 20 after keeping it open since 1998.

Apple is shutting down its online Support Community on November 20
File photo Apple is shutting down its online Support Community on November 20 Photo: Engadget

Forum enters read-only status now

The dedicated discussion platform has been placed into a read-only mode immediately. Users can no longer post new questions or reply to existing threads on the site. A banner message confirms the permanent closure will occur on November 20, 2026. Visitors are directed to find trusted guidance on the official Apple Support site instead.

History spans nearly three decades

The service launched originally as the Apple Tech Exchange in 1998 before undergoing several name changes over time. It served as a hub for iPhone and Mac advice for almost thirty years according to reports. The company stated it decided on this move after a careful evaluation of strategy and customer needs. All historical posts from the last twenty-eight years will likely disappear when the platform shuts down next week.

User reactions vary widely online

Some users expressed disappointment that knowledgeable customers could no longer help each other find solutions to device issues. Other commenters noted poor experiences and described the forum as a useless top hit on Google search results. One user called it good riddance while another lamented the loss of helpful advice found there previously.

3 outlets, different leads

  • Engadget

    Apple is shutting down its online Support Community on November 20

  • The Verge

    Apple is killing its Support Community forum next week

  • TechRadar

    Apple pulls the plug on its Support Community forums after 28 years

Reported by

3 independent outlets. Headlines as published. Links open the original report.