Apple launches macOS Big Sur 11.2.2 to prevent MacBooks from being damaged by non-compliant third-party docking stations

Apple today released macOS Big Sur 11.2.2, the fourth update to the “macOS Big Sur” operating system released in November. ‌MacOS Big Sur‌ 11.2.2 comes two weeks after the release of macOS Big Sur 11.2.1, a bug fix update.

The new ‌‌‌‌‌macOS Big Sur‌‌‌‌ 11.2.2‌ update can be downloaded for free on all eligible Macs using the Software Update section of System Preferences.

According to Apple’s release notes, the “ macOS Big Sur ” update prevents 2019 or later MacBook Pro models and 2020 or later MacBook Air models from being damaged when connected to certain hubs and stations non-compliant third-party powered USB-C docking station.

There have been several reports on Reddit of Mac users who have connected USB-C hubs and docking stations to their machines, rendering the machine non-functional. Affected Macs appear to go blank and unresponsive shortly after connecting the docking station. Many users who encountered issues were using hubs and docking stations not purchased from reputable companies.

Many complaints came from Mac M1 users who owned a MacBook Pro or “MacBook Air,” but Apple’s release notes suggest other models were affected as well.