Starting with the 12-inch MacBook and the redesigned MacBook Pro lineup that was released back in 2016, these machines came with a new keyboard that featured a butterfly mechanism that had to be incorporated because of the sleek design of these notebooks.
Unfortunately, the new design will come to haunt Apple because there were several complaints of these devices related to the failing of keys. Some keys would often get stuck in place while others would be able to get pushed but did not register a keystroke on the display. Two years have passed and after a lawsuit, Apple is ready to provide a service to these deserving owners.
Related Deal Alert: Maxed Out 15-inch MacBook Pro with Touch Bar $1,200 Off
Here Are the MacBook and MacBook Pro Models That Are Eligible for Apple’s Free Keyboard Repair Program
Given below is a list of the models that Apple is currently offering to repair under its free keyboard service program.
- MacBook (Retina, 12-inch, Early 2015)
- MacBook (Retina, 12-inch, Early 2016)
- MacBook (Retina, 12-inch, 2017)
- 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)
To get the service process underway, you will need to take your affected laptop to an authorized service provider or an Apple retail store, or you can simply mail the whole thing in. The authorized staff will examine it to make sure that it is actually the keyboard’s fault, then either replace the affected key or swap out the whole board. Since this process is going to be taking a few days, do note that you will be without your machine for a few days.
Apple has also stated that these keyboard repairs will be covered from four years after your original purchase date, regardless of warranty status. What we’re also hoping to see are improvements in the keyboard design in the next iteration of Apple’s 12-inch MacBook and MacBook Pro lineup because if customers are being forced to pay a premium for these notebooks, they expect to be compensated for it in terms of longevity.
Source: Apple Support
