Skip to main content
  1. Home
  2. Computing
  3. News

MacOS 10.12.2 might fix those pesky 2016 MacBook Pro graphics issues

By

MacBook Pro 15
Malarie Gokey/Digital Trends
Problems inevitably arise whenever a new technology product is introduced, and they are usually resolved through software updates or, occasionally, with hardware fixes. Even entirely new models of existing products can suffer major problems as kinks are worked out, and no manufacturer is immune.

Such has been the case with Apple’s new 2016 MacBook Pro line, which has suffered a number of problems from audio drivers blowing out speakers in Boot Camp to graphical issues causing machines to forget which GPU is installed and causing massive on-screen glitches. The former issue was fixed with new drivers and now the latter issue could be resolved with the release of MacOS 10.12.2, 9to5Mac reports.

Recommended Videos

More: MacBook Pro bug is most common on the 15-inch Radeon 460 model, survey says

The following video provides a graphical — no pun intended — demonstration of the issues experienced by MacBook Pro users:

2016 MacBook Pro Graphics Bug (Sierra 10.12.2 Beta (16c60B))

So far, it seems that users of 15-inch MacBook Pro with Touch Bar models see the issue most often, perhaps due to issues with that machine’s dedicated graphics. That is not universally true, however, as some 13-inch MacBook Pro users have also seen the same problems, including both machines with and without the Touch Bar.

The good news seems to be that MacOS 10.12.2, which is at public beta version 6 and so could be released by the holidays, incorporates a fix. The information comes from the MacRumors forum, where a participant posted an alleged email from Apple Senior Vice President Craig Federighi. In the email, Federighi allegedly says, “Thanks for the note! We believe we have addressed all of these graphics issues in the latest beta of Sierra 10.12.2 (available at beta.apple.com).”

Some MacBook Pro owners are worried that a fix would require swapping out the non-repairable machines for new ones, which can create its own problems of backing up data, resetting machines, and potentially getting a replacement with its own new issues. It looks like that won’t be necessary, however — all it might take is an upgrade to macOS. While that is not quite as easy as a simple driver update, it is a lot less messy than trekking to an Apple Store.

Editors' Recommendations

Topics
Mark Coppock
Mark Coppock
Computing Writer
Mark has been a geek since MS-DOS gave way to Windows and the PalmPilot was a thing. He’s translated his love for…
Here’s why people are saying to avoid the entry-level M2 Pro MacBook Pro
A person sitting in a vehicle using a MacBook Pro on their lap.

One thing Mac users have always been able to count on in recent years is the blazing speed of their computer’s storage. The brand-new M2 Pro MacBook Pro and M2 Mac mini, however, look set to be bitterly disappointing in that regard.

That’s because multiple outlets have confirmed that Macs outfitted with entry-level M2 chips (both the M2 itself and the M2 Pro) come with much slower read and write speeds compared to the previous-generation models. For instance, 9to5Mac benchmarked the new 14-inch MacBook Pro with M2 Pro chip and found its SSD’s read and write speeds dropped by 40% and 20% respectively.

Read more
The M2 Max MacBook Pro looks awesome, but you probably shouldn’t buy it
An Apple representative standing in front of a MacBook Pro presentation.

The 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro are my favorite laptops of the past couple of years. These computers are the real deal, and have no real weakness -- outside the high price, of course. But you absolutely get what you pay for.

Meet the new MacBook Pro and Mac mini | Apple

Read more
MacBook Pro 14 and 16 (2023): the M2 Pro/Max splash down
Apple MacBook Pro front view showing display and keyboard..

Apple’s 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros are its most powerful laptops, and they’ve won rave reviews since launching in October 2021, including our own five-star rating and Editor’s Choice award. In January 2023, however, Apple updated the laptops, updating them with new, more powerful chips.

We've rounded up everything there is to know about these new devices in this guide. If you're intrigued by the new 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros, read on.
Price and release date

Read more