StarLabs Glossary

MacBook Repair Terms Explained

8 terms you will hear when a company MacBook needs repair, in plain English.

MacBooks are built differently from most Windows laptops. Memory and storage are fixed to the board, data is encrypted by Apple’s own chips, and screens are usually replaced as a whole assembly. Knowing these terms helps you ask the right questions, protect your data and decide whether to repair or replace a Mac in your fleet.

HARDWARE & DATA

Apple Silicon (M-series chips)

Apple’s own Mac chips, with memory and storage fixed at purchase. Data is encrypted and tied to the logic board.

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HARDWARE & DATA

Apple T2 Security Chip

The security chip in 2018 to 2020 Intel MacBooks. It encrypts the SSD, which changes how data recovery works.

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DISPLAY

Retina Display

Apple’s high-resolution screens. Most are replaced as a full display assembly, not just the glass.

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DISPLAY

Display Flex Cable & “Flexgate”

A worn hinge cable that causes the “stage light” glow on some MacBook Pros. Apple’s programme has ended.

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POWER

MagSafe

Apple’s magnetic charging connector, in three incompatible generations. Learn to tell a charger fault from a board fault.

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KEYBOARD

Butterfly Keyboard

The thin 2015 to 2019 MacBook keyboard known for sticky and repeating keys. Apple’s service programme has ended.

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POWER

Battery “Service Recommended”

The macOS warning that a battery has worn down. See how to check battery health and cycle count.

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DISPLAY

True Tone

The feature that matches screen colour to room lighting. Ask about it before any display replacement.

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Company MacBook out of action?

Screens, batteries, keyboards, charging and logic boards. WhatsApp 9011 1239 or see our MacBook repair options.

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