Some owners of the new 2020 MacBook Pro and MacBook Air have reported issues with the notebooks, the problem appears to be related to USB 2.0 accessories.
There have apparently been issues with some USB 2.0 accessories randomly losing the connection to the MacBook, this has apparently happened on both the MacBook Pro and MacBook Air.
Some other owners have reported freezing issue with USB 2.0 accessories, the bug is apparently related to Apple’s macOS Catalina.
Details of the USB 2.0 Issue
The problem seems to manifest in various ways. For some users, USB 2.0 accessories such as mice, keyboards, and external drives randomly lose their connection to the MacBook. This disconnection can be particularly frustrating during important tasks, causing interruptions and potential data loss. Other users have experienced their USB 2.0 devices freezing, rendering them unusable until the MacBook is restarted or the device is reconnected.
The issue appears to be linked to macOS Catalina, the operating system running on these new MacBook models. Despite the devices appearing disconnected, they still show up as connected in the system information menu. This suggests that the problem might be software-related rather than a hardware defect.
Possible Workarounds and Fixes
One Reddit user has shared a workaround for the issue. According to their post, even when these devices freeze or appear disconnected, they are still showing as connected in the system information menu. This user suggests that re-plugging the device or using a USB 3.0 hub might mitigate the problem temporarily. You can see details on a possible fix over at Reddit.
Another potential solution is to ensure that your macOS Catalina is updated to the latest version. Apple frequently releases updates that address bugs and improve system stability. Users experiencing these issues should check for any available updates and install them promptly.
Additionally, some users have found that using USB-C to USB-A adapters with USB 3.0 hubs can help alleviate the problem. This workaround suggests that the issue might be specific to the USB 2.0 protocol and its interaction with the new MacBook hardware.
The issues appear only to be affecting the new 2020 Apple MacBook Pro and MacBook Air models, hopefully Apple will be able to fix the problem in a software update.
Looking Forward
Apple has a history of addressing such issues through software updates, and it is likely that they are already working on a fix. In the meantime, users can try the suggested workarounds to minimize disruptions. It is also advisable to keep an eye on official Apple support channels and forums for any announcements regarding a permanent fix.
The 2020 MacBook Pro and MacBook Air are otherwise highly praised for their performance and design. These models feature the new Magic Keyboard, improved processors, and better graphics capabilities, making them popular choices among professionals and casual users alike. Despite the current USB 2.0 issues, these laptops continue to be a strong offering in Apple’s lineup.
For those heavily reliant on USB 2.0 accessories, it might be worth considering alternative solutions or temporarily using older MacBook models until a fix is released. As always, backing up important data regularly can help prevent data loss in case of unexpected disconnections.
Source MacRumors
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