Its seems that the new Thunderbolt Software Update 1.2 rolled out by Apple yesterday, has caused a few problems for a number of Mac users. Apple explained in the support docs for the software update that it would “adds support for the Apple Thunderbolt to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter”.
However, users are reporting a number of issues including rather worrying boot failures, kernel issues, stalled boot screens, or “unexpected error” notices since they installed the new update. These problems have left many users frustrated and searching for solutions.
Details of the Issues
According to the discussions on the Apple forums, some users have been left with unusable Mac systems. The boot failures are particularly concerning as they prevent the computer from starting up properly, leaving users unable to access their files or applications. Kernel issues, which involve the core part of the operating system, can lead to system instability and crashes. Stalled boot screens mean that the computer gets stuck during the startup process, and “unexpected error” notices can appear without any clear explanation, adding to the confusion.
One user reported that after installing the update, their MacBook Pro would not boot past the gray screen with the Apple logo. Another user mentioned that their iMac displayed a kernel panic message, which is a type of error screen that indicates a serious problem with the operating system. These issues are not only inconvenient but can also be alarming for users who rely on their Macs for work or personal use.
Potential Solutions and Workarounds
While Apple has not yet released an official fix for these problems, some users have found temporary solutions. One common workaround is to boot the Mac in Safe Mode by holding down the Shift key during startup. This can sometimes bypass the issues caused by the update and allow users to access their systems. Another potential solution is to reset the NVRAM (non-volatile random-access memory) by holding down the Option, Command, P, and R keys during startup. This can help resolve certain hardware-related issues.
In some cases, users have had to resort to reinstalling macOS from scratch, which can be a time-consuming process. This involves creating a bootable USB drive with the macOS installer and using it to perform a clean installation of the operating system. While this can resolve the issues caused by the update, it also means that users will need to back up their data and reinstall their applications.
As more information becomes available on the issues, we will keep you updated. In the meantime, affected users are encouraged to share their experiences on the Apple forums and seek assistance from Apple Support. It is also a good idea to check for any new updates or patches that Apple may release to address these problems.
In conclusion, while the Thunderbolt Software Update 1.2 was intended to add support for the Apple Thunderbolt to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter, it has unfortunately caused a range of issues for some Mac users. Boot failures, kernel issues, stalled boot screens, and “unexpected error” notices have left many users with unusable systems. While there are some potential workarounds, a permanent fix from Apple is still needed. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available.
Source: 9 to 5 Mac
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