# Feature lifecycle

> Understand the lifecycle states that Unity uses to communicate the support status of features and APIs.

Unity documentation lifecycle states describe the support status of features in the Unity Editor and runtime.

> **Note:**
>
> To learn about package deprecation, refer to [Deprecated packages](/engine/6000.5/manual/packages-list/packages-all/pack-deprecated.md) and [Package states and lifecycle](/engine/6000.5/manual/packages-list/packages/upm-lifecycle.md).

## Lifecycle states

| State            | Description                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    |
| ---------------- | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| **Experimental** | Experimental features are in the early stages of development stage and not supported. At some point in the future, they might be fully released and supported or become deprecated instead.                                                    |
| **Supported**    | The feature is fully supported, including updates, bug fixes, and maintenance. This state applies to any feature not marked experimental or deprecated.                                                                                        |
| **Deprecated**   | The feature is no longer recommended for use, typically because it's outdated, has been replaced by a superior alternative, or poses risks. Deprecated features have varying levels of support, described in the feature's deprecation notice. |
| **Obsolete**     | The feature has been removed or replaced. Obsolete features are no longer available in the product and aren't documented.                                                                                                                      |

## Additional resources

* [Deprecated packages](/engine/6000.5/manual/packages-list/packages-all/pack-deprecated.md)
* [Package states and lifecycle](/engine/6000.5/manual/packages-list/packages/upm-lifecycle.md)