Apple Extends MacBook ‘Staingate’ Repair Program

First, there was “antennagate”, which saw many iPhone 4 users experience dropped calls when held a certain way. Then, there was “bendgate”, an overblown controversy that emerged after the release of the iPhone 6, which saw several iPhone 6 Plus users complain that their phones were prone to bending and/or breaking at a weak point near the volume button. Although Apple actually only saw 9 “bent” iPhones returned, Apple strengthened the aluminum casing in the 6s units to avoid a similar controversy. The iPhone 7 release saw a few users complain of a “hissing” sound when the A10 processor was under heavy stress (some people referred to this as “hissgate”), but Apple was quick to replace any faulty units.

Apple is facing yet another scandal – this time, it’s “staingate”.

What is “staingate”? Well, the problem first surfaced in 2015, but has apparently affected units manufactured as far back as 2012. “Staingate” is a problem affecting MacBook Retina displays where the anti-reflective coating wears off, leaving discolored “stains” on the screen. According to staingate.org, the stains “can start as early as 7 months after the purchase. There is no clear pattern as to how it starts: some experience it in small spots around the edge, on other screens it appears in the middle as large patches.” In 2015, Apple began covering the repair of affected displays free of charge up to three years from the date of purchase or up to one year after October of 2015, whichever was longer.

According to MacRumors, Apple has extended the repair program – “Apple will replace Retina displays on eligible models purchased as far back as June 2012 until October 16, 2017, or within three years of the original date of purchase, whichever is longer.” Apple has not publicly announced the extension, and, according to MacRumors, the company is not planning on it. Any devices affected by the issue will be repaired through the AppleCare program throughout the extended repair period, however.

Users who have a MacBook affected by “staingate” are advised to contact Apple Support, call (800)APL-CARE, or make an appointment at their local Genius Bar. Users should be sure to have their serial number handy, which can be found by selecting “About This Mac” from the Apple menu in the upper left corner of the screen. Users who have already paid for an out-of-warranty repair may also be eligible for a refund.