Scores of MacBook Pro users are reporting that the latest version of OS X El Capitan (10.11.4) is causing their computer to freeze.
The problem was first reported back in March and appears to be focussed on early-2015 13in MacBook Pros, although mid-2015 15in MacBook Pro users have also said they’re experiencing the issue and there are a few MacBook Air users grumbling as well.
First logged by MacForums member Antonnn on March 25, the problem apparently causes the system to completely freeze at random, becoming unresponsive to the point that a hard reboot is required.
Apple has acknowledged the issue but not yet issued any formal advice, so what should you do if you’re experiencing the OS X El Capitan deep freeze?
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Based on what others say has worked for them, you could try one of the following fixes. Note that we haven’t independently verified any of these, but let us know how you get on in the comments below and we’ll update our advice accordingly.
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Back over on MacForums, user Antonnn says he’s been in the clear for a week or so now and recommends trying one of the following options:
1. Downgrade to OS X El Capitan 10.11.3 if you have it stored as a Time Machine backup
2. Register for Apple’s free public beta program and install the OS X 10.11.5 preview build
3. Put up with the issue and wait a month or so for the OS X 10.11.5 stable update
Of these options, Antonnn notes that he bit the bullet and installed the preview build and it work, though as ever if you are going to install beta software, you should backup your machine first.
Elsewhere, Arcana Art writes that the problem is a graphics driver issue, offering up the following as a remedy:
1. Click the Nvidia icon in the right top corner on your desktop and choose OS X Default Graphics drivers
2. Reboot
3. Click the Nvidia icon on your desktop and choose Nvidia Web Driver
4. Reboot
Do any of the above solutions fix your MacBook OS X El Capitan problems? Share your experience in the comments now.
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Editorial independence
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.