Apple recently initiated a Keyboard Service Program for MacBook and MacBook Pro to replace keyboards on the “small percentage” of 2015-2017 MacBook and 2016-2017 MacBook Pro models that may have “sticky” keys that repeat or don’t respond to presses consistently.
Last week, the Cupertino firm released new MacBook Pro models with an “improved third-generation keyboard for quieter typing,” that a recent teardown by iFixit reveals a thin, silicone barrier underneath each key (as seen above in an iFixit photo), which they believe are intended to keep dust and crumbs from getting stuck under the keys.
Apple has been using second-generation MacBook Pro keyboards for its keyboard replacement program, but customers who hoped that perhaps the company would begin using the third-generation keyboards in the replacement program will apparently have those hopes dashed.
When asked if Apple Stores and Apple Authorized Service Providers will be permitted to replace second-generation keyboards on 2016 and 2017 MacBook Pro models with the new third-generation keyboards, if necessary, Apple said, no, the third-generation keyboards are exclusive to the 2018 MacBook Pro.
As noted by MacRumors, it is possible that the third-generation keyboards are not backwards-compatible with the 2016 and 2017 MacBook pro models.
Users can only hope the second-generation keyboard has been modified by Apple to make it more reliable. Only time will tell.
If you are in need of a keyboard replacement for your 2016 or 2017 MacBook Pro, do the following: Visit the Contact Apple Support portal, click or tap “Mac” -> “Mac notebooks” -> “Hardware Issues” -> “Keyboard not working as expected” -> “Bring in for Repair,” to book an appointment at an Apple Store or Apple Authorized Service Provider. Users are strongly advised to backup the Mac’s hard drive before bringing it in for any type of service.