Apple has apparently agreed to address issues with the reflective coating on a number MacBook models.
In recent years, it’s emerged that a number of MacBook and MacBook Pro models with Retina displays have suffered from a peculiar ‘staining’ issue. This is where the anti-reflective coating on the screen is worn away by pressure from the keyboard and trackpad, or from cleaning.
Some experience this issues in small spots around the edge of the display, while on other screens it appears in the middle as large patches.
This has led to a number of complaints and petitions from disgruntled customers, who have often been told by Apple that this is a mere cosmetic issue and so not covered under warranty. It has even led to a dedicated website on the issues called Staingate (of course).
Now MacRumours is reporting that Apple has relented, albeit in a less-than-public way. Multiple sources have confirmed that Apple has issued an internal notice about a new quality program that addresses this very problem.
The result is that Apple will replace any MacBook display suffering from this staining issue for free – even if it is out of warranty. What’s more, if you’ve paid to have the issue fixed in that time, you’ll be able to have the cost refunded by Apple.
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There are two conditions: the MacBook must be less than three years old, and the claim must be made before October 16, 2016.
Apple won’t be making this resolution public, apparently, so if you’re experiencing the MacBook staining issue your best bet is to book a Genius Bar appointment and find out if you’re eligible.
Next, check out our MacBook Pro 13-inch review video:
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Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
