apple diagnostics software blocks third-party repairs of 2018 macbook pro and imac pro

Detailed in Apple document circulated to Authorized Service Providers last month, the modified repair procedure requires proprietary system configuration software to be run after certain hardware components are replaced, ..   Called Apple Service Toolkit 2, the program works conjunction with Apple's T2 security chip, present in MacBook Pro and iMac Pro..   The suite includes Mac Resource Inspector and tools that examine variety of computer systems including memory, display, power adapters and cooling system, citing the repair document.   For Macs with Apple T2 chip, the repair process is not complete for certain parts replacements until AST System Configuration suite has been run.   Failure to perform this step will in inoperative system and incomplete repair, the internal document reads, according to Motherboard..   According to the publication, repair facilities must use the software top case, logic board or Touch ID board.   Word of the protocol is to renew suspicions of planned obsolescence strategies, only Apple, and as Apple, is in control of T2-bearing Macs repairs.   The laws seek to force tech companies like Apple to provide consumers and third-party repair outlets access to repair information, equipment and parts..   Introduced with iMac Pro, Apple-designed silicon integrates multiple system controllers, including those governing audio and SSD drives, and Mac's image onto single chip..   Additionally, and germane to AST 2 repair policy, the chip validates the entire boot process...   Read more