Several users of the M1 line of Apple's MacBook have reported instances where their screens crack during normal use or overnight, and for no apparent reason. Released last year, the line of MacBook models sporting an M1 chip boast faster processing power than previous models, with Apple claiming the processor is significantly faster than MacBooks powered by an Intel processor. Both the Air and Pro model of the M1 MacBooks have similar builds, with the Pro sporting a few additional features to help it run more powerful tasks over longer periods of time.
In addition to the MacBook models that are already available to buy, Apple is expected to release more soon, and ones that are also powered by its own silicon. For example, a new MacBook Pro is expected to launch later this year and an updated MacBook Air that's likely to feature an M2 chip is also expected to arrive soon. However, with users now starting to report issues with their recent MacBook purchases, others might be less inclined to make their own purchase.
According to 9to5 Mac, several users have contacted Apple Support to report cracks appearing overnight on their M1 MacBook's screen. These cracks have been found on both the M1 MacBook Air and Pro models. Several other instances have also surfaced on Reddit as well as the company's own support forums recently. Cases range from finding cracks after opening the laptop to cracks appearing after simply making contact with the screen. Apple forum user CanadaM1 reported finding a crack on their MacBook’s screen after closing it and then opening it again a short time later. After one week of using the notebook, Reddit user UnableGrape reported opening their MacBook to find that the screen “is black with lines on it."
What's Going On With These MacBooks?
9to5 Mac suggests two possible circumstances that might cause the M1 MacBook’s screen to crack in a low-stress setting. Like any laptop, the first could be due to debris that's present at the bottom of the screen, with the assumption that even smaller amounts of debris than usual are causing the issue. The second is that the cracks could be the result of the screen flexing when it is closed, opened, or moved. For example, Apple forum user Zedder1994 reported the M1 screen breaking after “the viewing angle" was changed "by 1 cm." This would seem to suggest the issue is structural in nature and not caused by any problems with the internal components of the MacBook.
While the numbers represented don’t suggest it is a prevalent issue for all M1 MacBook users, it doesn't bode well for the durability of the laptop. Having to work with Apple support might also keep customers from picking up an M1 model, as users reporting cracked screens suggest it has been a struggle to prove that they are not at fault. To even get support to take their broken MacBook, many users reported having to hand over anywhere between $300 to upwards of $600 first. Unless Apple forms an actionable response for those affected by this, it wouldn't be surprising if others decided to hold off on buying a new MacBook.
Sources: 9to5 Mac, Reddit, Apple Support