Apple complicates repairs Mac and MacBook with check by proprietary software

Apple requires this year’s MacBook Pros and iMac Pros to get a software check when users or repair centers replace parts of the system. That software is only owned by Apple itself and authorized resellers, making repairs more difficult.

The software makes it impossible for home users or independent businesses with no affiliation with Apple to repair this year’s MacBook Pros and iMac Pro, Motherboard writes. MacRumors also confirms the story based on its own sources. The software works with the T2 chip, which is in the devices to power the microphone, speakers and, in the laptops, the fingerprint scanner.

If the T2 chip detects that parts have been replaced, it requires a check with the Apple Service Toolkit or Apple Service Toolkit 2. Otherwise, it will no longer function. The move limits Apple computer repair to the company itself and repair centers with whom the manufacturer works. As a result, companies and schools that use thousands of Macs can no longer replace parts, even if they have the expertise in-house. The same applies to home users.

The step only affects computers with a T2 chip. It is not included in MacBook models from last year and earlier. Even iMacs don’t have them yet. This means that people who want to can repair it themselves for the time being. Apple has not yet responded.