End of an era: Apple Support Community forums will permanently close on November 20

Users visiting the Apple Support Community today were greeted with a message stating the platform will permanently close on November 20, 2026. The site immediately stopped accepting new posts and switched to a read-only state, allowing visitors to browse existing discussions and use "Me too" and voting buttons but not submit new questions or replies. The most recent post appeared just 57 minutes before the change, suggesting Apple disabled new submissions only recently.

The message refers to the "AppleCare Support Community" rather than the official "Apple Support Community" branding. A "Sign in" button remains but leads to an AppleConnect login page labeled "AC Communities Web – Internal," indicating access may now be restricted to Apple employees. 9to5Mac has reached out to Apple for comment and clarification on the scope of the shutdown.

The platform's history dates back to at least 1998 when it launched as Apple Tech Exchange. It was later renamed Apple Discussions before relaunching as Apple Support Communities in April 2011 with a redesigned interface, personalized profiles, and a reputation system rewarding users for helping others. For over two decades, the forums served as a primary destination where users worldwide helped each other troubleshoot issues and share tips for Apple products.

Apple's closure notice directs users to "continue to find trusted guidance and support on the official Apple Support site" and thanks community members who "contributed their time and expertise to help others with their Apple products." The company has not publicly explained the reason for the shutdown or whether any content will be archived or migrated.