T2 chip blocks unauthorised repairs
Be careful if you need to repair a recent Mac – taking it to an unauthorised repair shop could ‘brick’ the device – that is,
render it useless. That’s because Apple has announced certain repair processes need to run special diagnostic software – and that software is only available to Apple or repair shops authorised by the company.
The key to this is the T2 security chip that’s embedded in recent Macs. This chip performs a number of functions, such as checking that the Touch ID module hasn’t been tampered with and ensuring hackers cannot remotely activate the Mac’s microphones without your knowledge.
Apple has not given a reason for the blocking of unauthorised repairs, but it could be to prevent malicious types from installing compromised components. The parts affected include the display, the logic board, the top case and the Touch ID board in the MacBook Pro, and the logic board and flash storage in the iMac Pro.
But iFixit CEO Kyle Wiens speculates that Apple may be trying to “grab more market share” in the repair sector.