Friday, February 1, 2019

'Flexgate' Display Issues Affecting 2016 MacBook Pro and Later

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Some 2016 and later MacBook Pro models appear to be displaying issues with uneven backlighting caused by a delicate and easy-to-break flex cable, which has been dubbed "flexgate."

Impacted machines can feature uneven lighting at the bottom of the screen, which looks a bit like a "stage light" effect, and the display can eventually fail entirely.

Image via MacRumors reader SourceSunToM

What's the cause?


According to repair site iFixit, which first highlighted the problem, 2016 and later MacBook Pro machines are using thin, fragile display flex cables that are prone to malfunctioning with repeated closing and opening of the MacBook Pro's display.

The flex cables are loosely wrapped around the display controller board and when the MacBook's display is opened, the cables are pulled tighter, leading to tears and problems over time.

Image via iFixit

iFixit says the backlight cable is usually the one to break first, leading to backlighting issues and eventual display failure.

Which models are affected?


The issue can impact any 13 or 15-inch MacBook Pro model manufactured in 2016, 2017, or 2018, though it appears to be affecting Touch Bar models more frequently.

Apple introduced a redesigned MacBook Pro in 2016, and this was the first to use the new flex cable. Older MacBook Pro models are not impacted because they use a more durable wire that was routed through the hinge instead of around it, mitigating the stress of repeated display openings.

The new MacBook Air models could also eventually be impacted. While they use a different display cable design, iFixit says the cables also wrap over the display board and could potentially exhibit the same failure. It's not clear yet if that will happen, however.

How long does it take for the problem to show up?


When you first buy a MacBook Pro, the flex cable functions perfectly. With repeated closing and opening of the MacBook Pro's lid, however, the durability can decline, leading to the display issues.

Since it takes time for the cable to break down, machines experiencing this issue generally do not display it for several months to years after purchase. Because it takes time to show up, affected MacBook Pro models may no longer be under the one-year warranty.

What do I do if my MacBook Pro has this issue?


If your MacBook Pro has this display issue, the first step is visiting an Apple retail store or contacting Apple support.

Unfortunately, when this problem surfaces, many MacBook Pro models are older than a year and no longer covered by the standard one-year warranty. Those who have an extended AppleCare+ warranty will be able to get their repairs covered by Apple.

Customers who do not have AppleCare+ may be required to pay out of pocket for repairs. While it's a simple cable that needs replacing, because of the way the MacBook Pro is designed, the flex cable is integrated into the display and requires the entire display assembly to be replaced.

This can cost upwards of $600 for customers who are out of the warranty period.

There have been reports of customers no longer under the one-year warranty that have been offered free or reduced cost repairs from Apple, but others have had to pay full price. Without a consistent policy in place, repair outcomes will vary.

How many people are affected?


Just how many MacBook Pro models are experiencing this issue remains unknown, but a growing number of complaints have been surfacing over the course of the last few months. There have been complaints on the MacRumors forums and the Apple Support Communities.

What does Apple have to say?


Apple hasn't commented on the issue at this point in time, and there is no repair program in place. Impacted users have started a website and a petition with the aim of getting Apple to offer free repairs via an extended warranty program.

Discuss this issue


If you have a MacBook Pro experiencing this flexcable issue, check out the ongoing discussion on the MacRumors forums where are users are sharing their experiences with Apple support, replacement machines, repair costs, and more.

Related Roundup: MacBook Pro
Buyer's Guide: MacBook Pro (Neutral)

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Amazon Prime Video App for Apple TV Gains 'X-Ray' Feature

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Amazon appears to have recently added its popular "X-Ray" feature to the Amazon Prime Video app on the Apple TV.

X-Ray lets Amazon Prime Video users get more information about the TV shows and movies they're offering, with the feature providing cast and character information, trivia, bonus content, photo galleries, and more.


On Apple TV, the X-Ray feature can be used by tapping on the Apple Remote's main button and then swiping upwards after the "X-Ray" text appears on the screen.

From there, you can view information on the actors in a particular scene, jump to a different scene in a TV show or movie, see a full cast list, or read trivia facts.


On some titles, there's also a collection of bonus photos and videos to look through, with behind-the scenes information, concept art, set design, and more.

X-Ray is a feature that's available on most devices where Amazon Prime Video can be watched, but it wasn't added to the Apple TV until recently and wasn't an available option when the Amazon Prime Video app for Apple TV launched in 2017. X-Ray is also available on the Amazon Prime Video app for iOS.

(Thanks, Neil!)

Related Roundups: Apple TV, tvOS 12
Buyer's Guide: Apple TV (Don't Buy)

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iPhone Sales Growing Following Price Cuts in China

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Apple is seeing improved iPhone sales in China following some recent price cuts on the iPhone XR, XS, XS Max, and older models that were introduced earlier in January, reports Chinese site Feng.

Apple dropped iPhone prices for third-party distributors in China on January 10, allowing vendors to purchase iPhones more cheaply and pass those savings on to customers. Apple cut prices on most iPhone models, but the XR saw the biggest discounts.


Shortly after Apple implemented the pricing cuts, vendors in China started offering discounts on various iPhone models. The XR, for example, was available from JD.com for 6099 yuan ($899), while Suning, an electronics store similar to Best Buy, started selling iPhone XR for 6199 yuan ($914).

Those prices are more affordable than the iPhone XR from Apple's own online store, where the device is priced starting at 6499 yuan ($958).

According to Feng, data sourced from Alibaba suggests that iPhone sales on the site have increased by 76 percent in China since January 13. Suning, meanwhile, saw Apple traffic and sales "explode" with the iPhone 8, 8 Plus, and XR in particular seeing purchase boosts. Apple sales from Suning have increased by 83 percent since January 11.

Apple launched the price cuts after seeing iPhone sales fall significantly in China during the holiday quarter of 2018, leading to lower iPhone revenue than expected. The Cupertino company is hoping sales will soar during Chinese New Year in February, improving overall performance in China.

Apple is also promoting older iPhone trade-ins and monthly pricing for iPhones in many countries around the world, including the United States, in an effort to boost iPhone upgrade numbers.

Earlier this week, Apple CEO Tim Cook said that Apple is reevaluating its pricing strategies in some international markets, returning to pricing that's "more commensurate" with what local prices were last year to boost its iPhone sales.

Cook also said that he does believe Apple's higher prices were a factor in the declining number of iPhone upgrades that led to a weaker holiday quarter. In some international markets, the strength of the U.S. dollar amplified pricing increases.

Apple is expecting revenue of $55 to $59 billion in the second fiscal quarter of 2019 (first calendar quarter), which is below the $61.1 billion in revenue Apple earned in the second fiscal quarter of 2018. It's not clear if the pricing changes in China and other international markets will be a big enough boost to pull Apple out of its slump going forward, but for the first part of the year, Apple is still expecting lower iPhone sales.

Related Roundups: iPhone XS, iPhone XR
Tag: China

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Review: Anker's 30W 'Atom' USB-C Charger is Tiny, Affordable, and Perfect for Charging iPhones, iPads, and MacBooks

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With a new material called Gallium nitride (GaN), semiconductor components have been able to be shrunk down, leading to smaller than ever charging accessories. Several accessory makers have been taking advantage of GaN technology for new products, including Anker.

Anker recently debuted the PowerPort Atom PD 1, a 30W USB-C charger that's much smaller than the USB-C power adapters offered by Apple and, in fact, not much larger than an iPhone charger.


The Atom measures in at 1.4 inches wide and 1.5 inches tall, which is about 40 percent smaller than the similar 29/30W USB-C chargers that ship with the MacBook and MacBook Air.

Design wise, there's not a whole lot to say about the Atom. It's a small white charger that's almost cube shaped, with a shiny face and a single USB-C port that has "PD" written above it to denote its status as a USB-C PD power adapter. At the side, there's an Anker logo.


The plug at the back is not collapsible, likely due to its small size, which is one minor negative. It doesn't fold down, so the prongs are always going to be sticking out.

The small size of the Atom is convenient because when you plug it in to an outlet or a power strip, it doesn't take up unnecessary space. In my case, I have a power strip in a cable organizing box, and power adapter size can be a real concern in this kind of situation.


A smaller power adapter doesn't take up more than one outlet, and it can be placed in either the top or bottom slots. It's also not in the way with a power strip, and it's more versatile than Apple's own power adapters.


As a 30W USB-C power adapter, the Atom is ideal for charging the USB-C enabled iPad Pro models, the MacBook, and the MacBook Air. It's not powerful enough for the 13 and 15-inch MacBook Pro models, but for all smaller devices, it's perfect.

Atom next to iPad Pro USB-C power adapter

It's also ideal for use with the iPhone for fast charging purposes. If you pair it with a Lightning to USB-C cable, it will charge an iPhone to 50 percent in a half an hour. You can also fast charge older iPad Pro models that use Lightning instead of USB-C with a Lightning to USB-C cable and Anker's Atom.

Atom next to 29W USB-C MacBook power adapter

On the 2018 USB-C iPad Pro models, you're going to see faster charging with a USB-C to USB-C cable than you do with Apple's standard 18W power adapter.

With the standard 18W USB-C power adapter that comes with the new iPad Pro models, my 11-inch iPad Pro charged to 45 percent in an hour. With Anker's 30W power adapter, it charged to 66 percent during the same time period. Testing was done both times charging from 1 percent in airplane mode.

Anker's USB-C to Lightning Cables


Apple recently began allowing third-party companies to develop Apple-certified "Made for iPhone" USB-C to Lightning cables, and Anker is set to launch its first USB-C to Lightning options in late February.

I was able to test out the cables, which will be available in two varieties -- the Powerline II and the Powerline+. Anker's cables will come in three and six-foot lengths.


Powerline+ is the premium version of the cable, covered in a durable and attractive braided nylon material. The version I have on hand is red, and it's a nice looking cable. Pricing for this cable hasn't yet been announced, but the standard Powerline II will be priced at $15.99.

I haven't been able to use it for a long period of time to test durability, but Anker's cables are known for being well made. It certainly feels sturdy, and the USB-C and Lightning connectors at the ends are protected with a thick rubber material and an aluminum cap that prevents flexing at vulnerable points.

PowerLine+ Lightning to USB-C cable

It's usually the ends of cables where fraying happens, so the protection Anker has added should keep the Powerline+ from breaking with frequent use.

The Powerline II cable is similar to the Powerline+, but it doesn't have the nylon covering. It's made from the same material as any other standard Apple cable.

PowerLine II Lightning to USB-C cable

The connector ends are protected with a rubber material, but there's no aluminum end for added durability. Still, the thick rubber material that extends past the joint where the cable attaches to the connector is more protection than a standard Apple USB-C to Lightning cable offers, and it too should hold up well.

Pricing isn't available on Anker's USB-C to Lightning cables as of yet, but they're likely to be priced competitively. Apple's 1m (3ft) USB-C to Lightning cable is priced at $19.99.

Bottom Line


If you need a USB-C power adapter for the purpose of fast charging an iPhone or as a secondary charger for an iPad Pro, MacBook, or MacBook Air, the Atom is an ideal choice. It's small, compact, and affordable, priced $15 less than Apple's 30W Power Adapter.

Most USB-C PD chargers from established companies on Amazon are priced in the neighborhood of $25 to $30 anyway, so the Atom is competitively priced and shelling out a few extra dollars for portability and convenience seems well worth it.

Anker's upcoming USB-C to Lightning cables offer the durability that Anker customers have come to expect from Anker cables, and will be a solid choice for those who need a USB-C to Lightning cable.

How to Buy


You can purchase the PowerPort Atom PD 1 from Amazon for $30, and it is expected to be back in stock later today or tomorrow. The first of Anker's USB-C to Lightning cables will be launching in February, and the Powerline II is available for pre-order on Anker's site for $15.99.

Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner Amazon. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.

Tag: Anker

This article, "Review: Anker's 30W 'Atom' USB-C Charger is Tiny, Affordable, and Perfect for Charging iPhones, iPads, and MacBooks" first appeared on MacRumors.com

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Picture In Picture Lands In Chrome OS 72 Via Google Extension


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MacRumors Giveaway: Win a UV iPhone Sanitizer From PhoneSoap

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For this week's giveaway, we've teamed up with PhoneSoap to offer MacRumors readers a chance to win a PhoneSoap 3 Smartphone UV Sanitizer.


As the name suggests, the PhoneSoap is designed to eliminate all of the nasty germs on your iPhone using a UV light. Most of us take our phones everywhere, including places rich with bacteria and other little microbes.


PhoneSoap says that its UV sanitizer kills 99.99 percent of all germs, and in addition to working on your iPhone, it will sanitize anything that fits inside. It's even able to kill cold and flu viruses.


All you need to do is open up the PhoneSoap, tuck your iPhone inside, and leave it there at night or for just a few minutes at a time. It doesn't take long to eliminate germs with a UV light, and the PhoneSoap will shut off automatically after 10 minutes so you don't need to worry about overheating or damage to your devices.


There are UV lightbulbs on both the top and bottom of the PhoneSoap to sanitize both sides of an iPhone at once, and the design is meant to get the light to tiny crevices that liquids don't reach.


The PhoneSoap, priced at $60, is multipurpose, so while it's sanitizing your phone with UV light, it can also charge it thanks to two ports (USB-C and USB-A) on the side. It is big enough to fit all iPhone models, and it also works with credit cards, keys, money, and more.


We have 10 of the PhoneSoaps to give away to MacRumors readers. To enter to win our giveaway, use the Rafflecopter widget below and enter an email address. Email addresses will be used solely for contact purposes to reach the winners and send the prizes. You can earn additional entries by subscribing to our weekly newsletter, subscribing to our YouTube channel, following us on Twitter, following us on Instagram, or visiting the MacRumors Facebook page.

Due to the complexities of international laws regarding giveaways, only U.S. residents who are 18 years or older and Canadian residents (excluding Quebec) who have reached the age of majority in their province or territory are eligible to enter. To offer feedback or get more information on the giveaway restrictions, please refer to our Site Feedback section, as that is where discussion of the rules will be redirected.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
The contest will run from today (February 1) at 11:00 a.m. Pacific Time through 11:00 a.m. Pacific Time on February 8 The winners will be chosen randomly on February 8 and will be contacted by email. The winners will have 48 hours to respond and provide a shipping address before new winners are chosen.


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Deals Spotlight: Save 30% on Incipio's Qi Mats, Battery Packs, and Other Charging Accessories

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Incipio today kicked off a new sale on its charging products, allowing customers the chance to save 30 percent on all of the "power" products found on Incipio.com. This includes Qi wireless charging mats, iPhone battery cases, cables, car chargers, battery packs, and more.

Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with Incipio. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.

In the list below we've highlighted a few examples of the discounts you can find in the sale. To see the savings, add an Incipio charging accessory to your shopping cart on Incipio.com, click "apply discount code" on the righthand side of the cart screen, and enter the promo code IHEART30 to receive 30 percent off your order.





Head over to our full Deals Roundup for more information on the latest sales going on this week.

Related Roundup: Apple Deals
Tag: Incipio

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