For those who still need an external CD/DVD player for their Mac, third-party options are available. Meanwhile, the official USB SuperDrive is still on sale in the UK.
This marks the end of an era for the Apple USB SuperDrive. It debuted in 2008 alongside the MacBook Air, which was the first Mac without a built-in CD drive. The SuperDrive was designed for users who still wanted to play CDs and DVDs on their Mac.
Apple’s website describes the USB SuperDrive: “Whether you’re at the office or on the road, you can play and burn both CDs and DVDs with the Apple USB SuperDrive. It’s perfect for watching a DVD movie, installing software, creating backup discs, and more.”
Connecting via USB (not USB-C), the Apple USB SuperDrive has been on the market for 15 years, long after Apple phased out CD drives in its Macs.
I actually have one myself and used to play Wicked Little Things DVDs on my old MacBook Air. It served its purpose back then, but I haven’t used it in over a decade and wouldn’t replace it if lost.
I’m likely not alone in this, so the recent “Sold Out” status on Apple’s US site, spotted by a 9to5Mac reader, isn’t surprising. It probably won’t be restocked, but it’s still available in the UK and on Amazon.
Third-party alternatives exist and connect via USB-C. They also support Blu-ray discs, unlike the Apple USB SuperDrive. If you prefer the official Apple USB SuperDrive, it costs £79 / $79 / A$119, if you can find it.