Apple offers free MacBook repairs after admitting design flaw
According to Apple, the design of the butterfly mechanism beneath the keys has been updated in newer models.
Wednesday 22 May 2019 12:40, UK
Apple has admitted that issues affecting MacBook keyboards are caused by a design flaw and not users, and is offering free repairs for certain models.
MacBook users have found their faulty keyboards are repeating letters and characters when they press them a single time, or that the characters simply don't appear at all.
The keys can also feel sticky or not respond in a consistent manner, the company acknowledged - and all models with a Touch Bar are covered by the offer.
Although sticky keys can be the result of spilling liquid on the keyboard, it had also been occurring in MacBooks which have been kept in perfectly good condition.
This is due to a design issue with the "butterfly mechanism" beneath Apple's keys - as compared to the scissor mechanism which traditional keyboards use when users press them down.
Old devices no longer covered by Apple's repair programme will be repaired, as long as consumers get the device seen to within four years of their first retail sale.
The models which are eligible for Apple's free repair programme are below. Users can identify their MacBook model by choosing "About This Mac" in the Apple menu.
:: MacBook (Retina, 12-inch, Early 2015)
:: MacBook (Retina, 12-inch, Early 2016)
:: MacBook (Retina, 12-inch, 2017)
:: MacBook Air (Retina, 13-inch, 2018)
:: MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2016, Two Thunderbolt 3 Ports)
:: MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2017, Two Thunderbolt 3 Ports)
:: MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2016, Four Thunderbolt 3 Ports)
:: MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2017, Four Thunderbolt 3 Ports)
:: MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2016)
:: MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2017)
:: MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2018, Four Thunderbolt 3 Ports)
:: MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2018)
:: MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2019, Four Thunderbolt 3 Ports)
:: MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2019)
Apple says it has redesigned the mechanism for the next generation of its MacBook products.
According to the company, new materials are being used in the mechanism which will make the keyboards more reliable.
To repair the MacBooks users will need to either take them to an Apple authorised service provider, make an appointment at an Apple retail store, or mail the MacBook to a repair centre.