Apple is taking a step towards improved repairability by offering individual speaker replacements for its MacBook Pro lineup. This change, which applies to both current and older 14-inch and 16-inch models with Apple silicon, is a welcome departure from the previous practice of replacing the entire top case for speaker issues.
Previously, a damaged speaker on a MacBook Pro often meant an expensive repair bill, as the top case replacement involved replacing a significant portion of the laptop’s chassis. With the availability of individual speaker parts, the cost of repairs is expected to decrease significantly.
While Apple has not yet announced pricing for the new repair option, the move has been praised by right-to-repair advocates and MacBook Pro owners alike. It signals a potential shift in Apple’s approach to repairability, making it easier and more affordable for customers to maintain their devices.
This change comes as Apple faces increasing pressure to improve the repairability of its products. The company has recently expanded its self-service repair program and introduced tools and resources to make repairs more accessible to customers.
Whether this new approach to speaker repairs will extend to other Mac models, such as the MacBook Air, remains to be seen. However, this initial step suggests a positive direction for Apple and its commitment to making its products more repairable.