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Ask HN: Does anyone know if Apple plans to address the MacBook keyboard issue?

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Re: Ask HN: Does anyone know if Apple plans to address the MacBook keyboard issue?

#41

Post by madengr »

solomatov wrote: post #17

Even if they have, they are known for super strict security rules, so it won't be disclosed. I saw a link to their patent application where they patented a way to protect the current keyboard design from dust and crumbs. Personally, I got tired of their disregard for software developers issues with hardware, and now my working machine in the new XPS 13 from Dell. I am happy with it.

As an EE, I despise using laptops, rather want real engineering workstations.

So what is it with software developers and laptops? The portability? Or rather people just being used to a laptop since they are ubiquitous in college. Even plugged into monitors, laptop keyboards just plain suck.

I have an XPS-13, and it's handy for field use with GNU Radio, but can't fathom doing anything productive on it.

Re: Ask HN: Does anyone know if Apple plans to address the MacBook keyboard issue?

#42

Post by JohnTHaller »

gergi wrote: post #29

Seems like the post should provide some context. What exactly is the issue?

The keys on the keyboard randomly stop working. This appears to be due to a design flaw that allows even a small amount of dust to interfere with the key action mechanism. Apple posted a 'fix' involving holding the laptop at odd angles and blowing compressed air under the keys to attempt to get them working again. Anecdotally, several HN users have reported having their keyboard replaced multiple times under warranty due to this issue.

Re: Ask HN: Does anyone know if Apple plans to address the MacBook keyboard issue?

#43

Post by notadoc »

slouch wrote: post #32

I bought a 2015 refurb instead of a new macbook because of the keyboard issues. It'll get me over this issue and into 2020, I believe.

That is what my entire office did too, holding out hope the next generation has a reliable keyboard and no touch bar

Re: Ask HN: Does anyone know if Apple plans to address the MacBook keyboard issue?

#44

Post by bitL »

nine_k wrote: post #27
zaroth wrote: post #16

Well when the internals don’t provide meaningful productivity differentiation for 90% of users for the last about 6-8 years now, and the MacBook Air design circa 2012 is virtually indestructible, how else are they going to get their users to upgrade machines every 2-3 years if not for shitty keyboard redesigns?

The glued-in battery (not endemic to Apple) genuinely wears down and forces people to upgrade. Not in 2-3 years, though.

You can get it replaced for like $200...

Re: Ask HN: Does anyone know if Apple plans to address the MacBook keyboard issue?

#45

Post by marrone12 »

madengr wrote: post #41
solomatov wrote: post #17

Even if they have, they are known for super strict security rules, so it won't be disclosed. I saw a link to their patent application where they patented a way to protect the current keyboard design from dust and crumbs. Personally, I got tired of their disregard for software developers issues with hardware, and now my working machine in the new XPS 13 from Dell. I am happy with it.

As an EE, I despise using laptops, rather want real engineering workstations. So what is it with software developers and laptops? The portability? Or rather people just being used to a laptop since they are ubiquitous in college. Even plugged into monitors, laptop keyboards just plain suck. I have an XPS-13, and it's handy for field use with GNU Radio, but can't fathom doing anything productive on it.

People who work in businesses frequently need to take their computer along to meetings, or for pair programming, or if they're going to work remotely.

Re: Ask HN: Does anyone know if Apple plans to address the MacBook keyboard issue?

#46

Post by satsuma »

gressquel wrote: post #30

let me piggy-back, is Apple going to have proper HDMI ports in future? Im going surface book the moment my current macbook stops working.

apple's mo has always been "why go with standardized ports when we can make our own, nearly identical ports and sell you the adapters?"

i think usb is one of the only cases where they haven't. and thunderbolt, sort of. apple loves their proprietary stuff though.

Re: Ask HN: Does anyone know if Apple plans to address the MacBook keyboard issue?

#47

Post by notadoc »

gressquel wrote: post #30

let me piggy-back, is Apple going to have proper HDMI ports in future? Im going surface book the moment my current macbook stops working.

Has there ever been a time when Apple removed something from hardware, like a port or a popular component, and later added it back?

Serious question, as I am not personally aware of such a thing.

Re: Ask HN: Does anyone know if Apple plans to address the MacBook keyboard issue?

#48

Post by happimess »

rodwyer wrote: post #11

I got sick of it myself and switched to a Lenovo X1 Carbon. Comparison here: http://blog.richard.do/index.php/2018/05/2018-macbook-pro-vs...

Thanks for the concise review. Off-topic question, though:

> but due to the ports issue (which Apple are taking the piss with)

What does "taking the piss with" mean in this context?

Re: Ask HN: Does anyone know if Apple plans to address the MacBook keyboard issue?

#50

Post by samatman »

I broke my own rule and bought a first iteration of new technology from Apple.

I'm conflicted. I actually enjoy the feel of the new keys, with the notable exception of the stunningly user-hostile arrow keys.

But I'm a bit of a slob, and I've gotten key stick a couple times. I have to baby this thing and I'm used to smashing the keys clean off and having it keep working.

Literally, my 2010 era MBP was missing two keys when it retired.

Half-height left and right arrow keys, and a keyboard that can withstand the crumbs of outrageous fortune. That'd do it for me.

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