Typically, out of warranty, the touchbar on my Macbook Pro has started flashing. As in nightclub-strobing style! Mainly when sleeping, opening the lid results in epilepsy-inducing flashing! Usually on the right hand side, sometimes and inch or so, sometimes way over half of the bar. Looking at the support forums, there are comments about it that go back 2 years! Had I known that, I certainly wouldn't have jumped on it! Has anyone had this repaired or know the extent of what's required to do so? It's out of Apple warranty but the store I bought it from has their own extended 2 year warranty. I've been on chat with Apple support twice now, both times didn't resolve it - I guess I have a Macbook Pro-shaped brick sitting on my desk (£2,000 - thanks Apple!) unless I can get this resolved straight away. Anyone? Thanks.
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Flashing touchbar.
- Thread starter dazzer21-2
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If this is an Intel-based MacBook Pro, you can try an SMC and NVRAM/PRAM reset.
SMC Reset:
https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT204063
If you're on an M-series MacBook Pro, hold down the power button for at least 10 seconds to reset the machine.
Otherwise, you can try the below workaround to see if that helps.
https://medium.com/macoclock/macbook-touchbar-flicker-fix-bafa754aae13
SMC Reset:
- Shut down your Mac.
- Press and hold Shift, Control, and Option on the left side of the keyboard. At the same time, press the power button.
- Hold for 10 seconds.
- Release the keys and then turn on your Mac.
https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT204063
If you're on an M-series MacBook Pro, hold down the power button for at least 10 seconds to reset the machine.
Otherwise, you can try the below workaround to see if that helps.
https://medium.com/macoclock/macbook-touchbar-flicker-fix-bafa754aae13
Did all that. Three times with Apple support and they couldn’t stop it. Took it to the Genius Bar and it’s either a logic board or top case replacement. £470. Luckily I still have outstanding warranty from the reseller I bought it from and they are repairing/replacing. Otherwise it’s uneconomic to repair. Anyone buying an M2 MBPro, AppleCare is the way to go.
I'd fix it via SW workaround or replace it. Touchbar is a $45 USD part, but a PIA to replace and will take easily around 4 hours work. Or I'd just get some good quality electrical masking tape, cover the Touchbar. Tidy it up with a sharp scalpel and be done with it.
The 2016 was just a bad design move on Apple's part; Butterfly Keyboard, Touchbar, ports, thermally constrained at launch what could possibly go wrong
I pity those that are saddled with a 2015 - 2019 portable Mac as the cost of replacing the KB is ludicrous. Apple should have been forced replace the Butterfly Keyboards indefinitely as the whole episode and how Apple dealt with it was extremely anti consumer...Q-6
There is no software workaround, unfortunately. Also unfortunately, I really like the touchbar! Also, to just cover it means no function keys when needed. If they won't repair and offer a replacement, I'll upgrade to a 14" with no touchbar and pay the extra.I'd fix it via SW workaround or replace it. Touchbar is a $45 USD part, but a PIA to replace and will take easily around 4 hours work. Or I'd just get some good quality electrical masking tape, cover the Touchbar. Tidy it up with a sharp scalpel and be done with it.
The 2016 was just a bad design move on Apple's part; Butterfly Keyboard, Touchbar, ports, thermally constrained at launch what could possibly go wrong
Q-6
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I think it depends on the Touchbar's failure mechanism as some I've read have had success with M1 MBP. Personally I don't care about the Touchbar as to me it adds and also takes away functionality, TBH is far from optimal for serious use and an ill conceived concept.
So far my 13" M1 MBP has been solid, the moment it has issue I'll replace it. To me the notebooks are just tools and while COVID is messing with that a lot. If I had the demand & need I'd opt for a 14" MBP...
Q-6
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I do believe the TouchBar has its place. People dismiss it, yet it has stood out for quite a while.I'd fix it via SW workaround or replace it. Touchbar is a $45 USD part, but a PIA to replace and will take easily around 4 hours work. Or I'd just get some good quality electrical masking tape, cover the Touchbar. Tidy it up with a sharp scalpel and be done with it.
The 2016 was just a bad design move on Apple's part; Butterfly Keyboard, Touchbar, ports, thermally constrained at launch what could possibly go wrong
Q-6