Apple has this week released another update for macOS Big Sur, this time in response to a problem where using some third-party powered hubs or docks can actually brick a MacBook.
As MacRumors reports, the update is version 11.2.2 and the affected MacBooks include any 2019 MacBook Pro models onwards, as well as 2020 versions of the MacBook Air. Reports of dead MacBooks, including those using Apple’s new M1 ARM chip, have been appearing for months. The speed at which they died also seems to vary greatly, with some lasting a few weeks and others dying within minutes.
Some users took their damaged MacBook to the Apple Genius Bar where they were told a hardware defect had caused the failure, but that there was nothing to be done other than replacing the laptop. Although it’s still unclear exactly what is going wrong, the problem must stem from a power delivery issue frying the internals of Apple’s hardware somehow.
Interested MacBook owners can grab the 11.2.2 update through the Software Update section located in System Preferences. It should already be available to install for eligible MacBooks.
