Confirmed: Apple’s New T2 Chip In MacBooks Blocks Third-Party Repair

Apple has again tightened the noose and has asserted the value of its ecosystem with its new T2 security chips fitted in the latest MacBook Air and Mac Mini.

Last month, a leaked repair documentation revealed that Apple’s T2 chip would prevent third-party repairs. The chip will run Apple’s AST 2 System Configuration software before the hardware repair process can be completed. If the software is not run, the repair would be considered incomplete, and the system would remain in an “inoperative” state.

The Cupertino giant has confirmed to The Verge that its new security-focused T2 chip will require the software check to be performed after components like logic board and Touch ID sensor are repaired. Apple has not mentioned all the components would require the software check to run in order to complete the repair.

The new T2 security chip brings many security-related features for Mac users. One of the most interesting features is “hardware disconnect” that disconnects any audio device connected to a MacBook as soon as its lid is closed. This feature is touted to bring protection against surveillance and from getting eavesdropped by hackers.

However, the additional security comes with limited repairability solutions as users cannot get their MacBooks repaired from third-party repairs services.

In addition to this, Apple’s T2 security chip also blocks Linux from booting leading to resentment from Linux users who prefer using the OS on MacBook.

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