The Butterfly Keyboard Repair Program is Over: What Now?

Apple's controversial butterfly keyboard repair program has ended. What does this mean for Mac users still experiencing issues? And why is NOW the perfect time to consider a new Mac with Apple Silicon?

November 21, 2024

Written by

Craig Stanton

Butterfly keyboard

Apple's free keyboard repair program for MacBooks, launched in 2018 to address widespread issues with its "butterfly" keyboard design, has quietly ended. This marks the final chapter in a saga that saw countless users plagued by sticky, unresponsive, or repeating keys. While the program's expiration was expected, it leaves some users who may have experienced issues with limited recourse.

If you're experiencing keyboard troubles with your MacBook, don't despair! Stanton Mac Support offers expert troubleshooting and repair services to get your machine back in working order.  Contact us today to schedule a consultation and let our experienced technicians diagnose and resolve your keyboard issues.

A Brief History of Butterfly Keyboards

Introduced in 2015 with the 12-inch MacBook, the butterfly keyboard was designed to facilitate thinner laptop designs. However, its low-profile mechanism proved susceptible to dust and debris, leading to a myriad of problems. Despite several revisions, the issues persisted, culminating in a class-action lawsuit and a public apology from Apple in 2019.

The Rise and Fall of a Controversial Design

The butterfly keyboard's demise began with the 16-inch MacBook Pro in 2019, which saw a return to the more reliable scissor-switch mechanism. This change subsequently rolled out to the MacBook Air and 13-inch MacBook Pro, effectively ending the butterfly keyboard era. While Apple's repair program offered some relief, its conclusion underscores the importance of ongoing maintenance and timely repairs.

Looking Ahead: Time for an Upgrade?

The end of the butterfly keyboard program coincides with an exciting time for Mac users. Apple's transition to its own powerful Apple Silicon processors has ushered in a new era of performance and efficiency. If you're considering a new Mac, now is a great time to explore the latest models with their impressive speed, battery life, and, of course, reliable keyboards.

Stanton Mac Support is an Apple-focused tech support company based in Somerville, specializing in tutoring, troubleshooting, and problem-solving for Mac and Apple users across Greater Boston. We offer on-site and remote services, with over a decade of experience helping Mac users feel more comfortable and confident with their technology.  We can help you choose the right Mac for your needs – contact us today to learn more about our product research services!

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