Apple Releases SMC Firmware Update for MacBooks

This morning, Apple released an important set of firmware updates for MacBook and MacBook Pro models ranging from late 2007 to early 2008. This update addresses an issue that barred the models in question from charging with Apple’s recently redesigned MagSafe Power Adapter.

Though Apple introduced the “L-shaped” version of the adapter alongside the MacBook Air in January 2008, the company only recently made it the standard across their notebook line. Though this redesign effectively prevents the fraying (and in some cases frying) issues that plagued the older design, it became problematic with several slightly older Macs.

The notebooks affected would charge per usual with the classic MagSafe design, but would fail to recognize its “L shaped” successor. This was not a widespread problem until Apple halted production of the original MagSafe design earlier in the year. Upon this manufacturing change, owners of certain machines were essentially left without a means of charging should their original adapter fail.

We encountered this problem first hand at some of our retail stores, and though a PMU reset occasionally alleviated the issue, many users were forced to seek used or refurbished adapters of the older variant. Thankfully, however, this issue is no more. By running Software Update from the Apple Menu, users of the following machines can download the SMC Firmware Update which permanently resolves the issue.

MacBook (13-inch Late 2007)
MacBook Pro (17-inch, Early 2008)
MacBook Pro (15-inch Early 2008)
MacBook (13-inch, Early 2008)
MacBook (13-inch, Late 2008)