Apple will begin repairing MacBook Pro keyboards at Apple Stores, reducing turnaround time
It’s no secret that Apple’s MacBook and MacBook Pro laptops have been plagued with keyboard issues since the introduction of the company’s “butterfly” switch key mechanism. A multitude of MacBook and MacBook Pro users have complained of keyboard issues, prompting Apple to offer free keyboard repair for older machines (2015-2017 models).
However, the repair process is cumbersome, requiring the device to be shipped to a repair facility. That looks like it will change; in an internal memo obtained by MacRumors, Apple has instructed its Apple Store employees to repair keyboards in-house in an effort to reduce the turnaround time of the repair.
Up to this point, a customer with a broken keyboard would have to drop off their MacBook or MacBook Pro to an Apple Store to open a repair ticket. The Apple Store would then ship the device off for repairs. After repairs were made, the repair facility would ship the device back to the Apple Store, who would then notify the customer that their computer was ready for pick up. The whole process would take about five business days and quickly became a major annoyance to MacBook and MacBook Pro users.
The new policy should drop the turnaround time to next-day service, provided the on-site Apple technicians can adequately perform the repair. It looks like Apple is trying to improve the customer experience surrounding keyboard failure in any way possible.
The memo, which was sent to Apple Store employees last week, states:
Most keyboard-related repairs will be required to be completed in store until further notice. Additional service parts have been shipped to stores to support the increased volume.
These repairs should be prioritized to provide next-day turnaround time. When completing the repair, have the appropriate service guide open and carefully follow all repair steps.
While Apple’s butterfly keyboard desperately needs an overhaul to address these issues (this year’s MacBook Pros are using a third-generation butterfly keyboard and have a consistent failure rate), it is nice to see Apple taking some steps to mitigate the inconvenience caused by bad design.
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