Apple releases macOS update to prevent damage from third-party docking stations and dongles

Apple is once again releasing an update to prevent a charging issue from killing MacBooks – this time it’s about fixing an issue where the 2019 and later MacBook Pros, and the 2020 and later MacBook Airs were damaged when ” they were connected to third-party USB-C hubs and docks (via MacRumors).

It’s unclear how widespread the issues are, but a poll on Reddit found 74 out of 221 respondents to report that their M1 Air or Pro failed after using a hub. As with all surveys, it’s best to take the results with a grain of salt, but it seems that some people were having issues.

Most of the issues seemed to come from using a third-party dock, and while some of them seem to be from fairly obscure brands, there are a few recognizable ones that have allegedly killed laptops. For its part, Apple calls them “non-compliant powered USB-C hubs and docking stations” in the notes for the new update.

Screenshot: The edge

It looks like Apple has recently experienced some power delivery issues. The latest update, 11.2.1, was released to address an issue where some users could not recharge their computers if they drained at 0% battery, it issued a recall for other MacBook Pro batteries that would not charge past one percent, and another recall for “a very small number” of Apple Watches that wouldn’t charge after an update. Hopefully, this is the last power bug Apple needs to fix.

If you’re plugging your MacBook into a docking station or hub of any type, it’s probably best to download this update ASAP, especially if it’s one of those models. concerned. Oh, and if you see this message just make sure you plug it into an official Apple power pack while you do so.

Screenshot: The edge