Apple’s new “Butterfly” mechanism keyboard has been the subject of constant criticism since it was released back in 2015. The butterfly mechanism keyboard replaced the traditional scissor-key-mechanism-based keyboard, by replacing actual hard-clicking keys with butterfly-shaped hinges beneath the new keys, which leads to each key moving less distance when pressed. The keyboard is nowhere as good as it sounds, with it being plagued by constant noise and dust entrapment issues since it was released.
Apple initially launched a Keyboard Service Program for Macbook and Macbook Pro that offers a free repair for Mac devices made between 2015 and 2017 that have keyboards with letters or characters repeating unexpectedly and do not appear or do not respond in a consistent manner. The exact models eligible for a repair under this program are listed below:
- 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)
Having one of these models doesn’t guarantee a fix, as Apple still needs to examine and determine whether your machine’s keyboard is suffering from any of the above-mentioned issues or not. But it’s a good place to start.
Apple’s new Macbook Pro – Is the issue fixed?
Apple’s latest Macbook Pro featured a small fix for the issue – Apple introduced a silicon membrane under each key to prevent debris from getting it. This small piece of elastic also dampens the sound of the keys and makes them a bit bouncier. Since this was supposed to be a fix for the issue, this Macbook isn’t part of the repair program mentioned above (yet). However, reports have come in that the issue still isn’t fixed, and that’s disappointing to say the least.
The same keyboard mechanism is also featured in Apple’s latest Macbook Air, which is suffering from the same woes. Apple recently issued an apology for the issue.
“We are aware that a small number of users are having issues with their third-generation butterfly keyboard and for that we are sorry,” an Apple spokesman told the Wall Street Journal. “The vast majority of Mac notebook customers are having a positive experience with the new keyboard.”
If you’re currently in possession of a Macbook plagued with the same issues, your best bet is to visit an Apple Store and see if your Mac is eligible for the program. If that’s not an option, we recommend trying to keep your Mac’s keyboard free from dust particles at all costs. You can also use an external keyboard for better reliability, although that obviously isn’t a permanent solution. Unless a permanent solution comes out, the Macbook will continue to be seen less and less as a reliable, trustworthy premium laptop.
Do you have a Macbook affected by the same issues? Or do you have any other fixes that worked for you? Let us know in the comments section below.
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