Apple has today expanded its Keyboard Service/Replacement Program by adding more Macs to the eligibility list and reducing repair time. But more interestingly, announcing a new material for the keyboards.
The Keyboard Service Program was launched by Apple after reports of issues with the new butterfly-style keyboards began to surface. Issues include keys becoming stuck, letters and characters repeating unexpectedly, or not appearing at all.
It’s an issue that, according to Apple, has affected a “small percentage” of keyboards used on certain MacBook, MacBook Air, and MacBook Pro models. Apple attempted to fix the issue with the release of a third-generation keyboard in last years MacBook Pro and current MacBook Air models – but the issues have continued, at least for some.
Program Changes
In response to the reports, Apple has, as of today, made the following changes to the service program:
- Added last years 2018 MacBook Pros to the eligibility list
- Added current MacBook Air models to the eligibility list
- Including 2019 MacBook Pros to the eligibility list
- New material for the keyboards
They are also promising the time it takes for the keyboards to be repaired. Although they won’t say by how much, the word is Apple will likely fix it within a day at their Retail Stores. A big improvement over the previous repair time of a week.
New Material
Apple has also tweaked the third-generation keyboard that is used in 2019 MacBook Pro models. Apple has confirmed with The Verge that “new materials” will be used in the switch mechanism. That should significantly reduce the occurrence of double and missed key presses. However, Apple did not specify which material it exactly is. But I expect we will find out soon enough.
The new material will be included in the new 2019 MacBook Pro keyboard which went on sale today. But will also be included in repaired keyboards on 2018 MacBook Pros and MacBook Airs.
The program covers eligible MacBook, MacBook Air, and MacBook Pro models for 4 years after the first retail sale of the unit. More information can be found on Apple’s website.
