Apple has launched a new quality program to replace MacBook screens with damaged anti-reflective coatings. This is in response to a growing number of users who are disappointed with the defect, and have made a petition to the tech company.
According to MacRumors, affected MacBook or MacBook Pro models with Retina displays have their anti-reflective coatings either wearing off or delaminating. Some of these started from the edge of the display, while others started as small spots in the middle of the screen, then grew wider.
According to PCMag, the issue, known on the Web as “Staingate,” has affected thousands of users. On the Staingate website, affected users have uploaded photos of their damaged MacBooks. Some have small damages on the edges of the screen, while others have huge or widespread spots distributed on the display.
According to the Staingate website, the stains (display damage) on the MacBook's display starts appearing as early as seven months from original date of purchase.
There is no clear way currently known as to how it starts. However, according to MacRumors it could be due to various circumstances which include pressure from the MacBook's keyboard and trackpad when it is closed. Also, the use of microfiber cloths and third-party cleaning solutions may have also caused the stains.
A certain Thailand-based MacBook user named Cody Yuwapun started a Change.org petition for the damaged displays eight months ago.
“I was refused service twice, even though I was still under warranty. I fought, and kept on trying, but now I am out of warranty, and instead of blaming me for the damage they now say "Your device is out warranty... You'll have to pay $$$ I am [disappointed],” wrote Yuwapun in the petition page.
Currently the petition has reached 4,372 supporters, which is just a little off the 5,000 e-signature goal target. This shows that many users are affected by the defect.
Apple will reportedly replace the Retina displays on the affected devices for free within three years from the date of purchase, or one year from October 16, 2015, whichever is longer. Additionally, users who have already incurred out-of-warranty costs may be refunded by Apple through AppleCare support.
Users with affected MacBooks can have an appointment with a Genius Bar or an Apple Authorized service provider to check if their device can be covered by the program.
Apple currently doesn't plan on announcing the program to the general public, but might contact users directly.
