### Apple Unveils a Solution for Automatic Startup on MacBooks with M-Series Chips
Apple is renowned for its cutting-edge hardware and software, but even the most meticulously crafted products can exhibit quirks that frustrate users. One such phenomenon has been the automatic startup functionality of MacBook Air and MacBook Pro models featuring Apple’s M-series silicon chips. These devices power on automatically upon opening the lid or connecting to a charger, a feature that has sparked mixed reactions among users. While some users enjoy the ease it provides, others deem it unnecessary and potentially bothersome, particularly when they simply wish to charge their device without activating it.
Fortunately, Apple has now rolled out a remedy for this predicament, albeit it demands a degree of technical prowess. Here’s everything you need to know regarding this new fix and how to apply it.
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### The Issue: Automatic Startup Functionality
MacBooks powered by Apple silicon, including the M1, M2, and the newly announced M3 chips, exhibit a default behavior where they automatically turn on in two different scenarios:
1. **When the lid is lifted**: The MacBook commences its startup as soon as the lid is opened, regardless of whether the user intends to use it right away.
2. **When plugged into power**: Connecting a USB-C or MagSafe charger also activates the device, even if the user merely wishes to charge the battery.
Although these features aim to improve user convenience, they can become inconvenient in certain cases. For instance, users who prefer to keep their MacBook switched off while charging or those who regularly open the lid for other activities (such as cleaning the screen) may perceive this behavior as disruptive.
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### The Resolution: A Terminal Command Solution
Apple has tackled this matter by providing a method to customize the automatic startup functionality. However, instead of a straightforward toggle in the macOS Settings app, the solution requires users to input specific commands in the Terminal app. This method might appear intimidating to those unaccustomed to Terminal, but following the steps meticulously makes it a simple task.
#### Prerequisites:
– Your MacBook has to be running **macOS Sequoia** or a newer version.
– Ensure your Mac is updated to the latest software version before proceeding.
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### How to Deactivate Automatic Startup
Here’s how you can adjust or deactivate the automatic startup behavior on your MacBook:
#### Step 1: Open the Terminal App
1. Launch the **Terminal** app on your Mac. You can locate it by searching for “Terminal” in Spotlight (activate Spotlight by pressing `Command + Space`).
#### Step 2: Select a Command
Depending on your preference, input one of the following commands in Terminal:
1. **To prevent startup when opening the lid or connecting to power**:
“`
sudo nvram BootPreference=%00
“`
2. **To stop startup only when lifting the lid**:
“`
sudo nvram BootPreference=%01
“`
3. **To halt startup solely when connecting to power**:
“`
sudo nvram BootPreference=%02
“`
#### Step 3: Enter Your Administrator Password
– After inputting (or copying and pasting) the preferred command, press **Return**.
– Terminal will request your Mac’s administrator password. Type in the password and press **Return** again. Be aware that the password will not display as you type.
#### Step 4: Confirm the Change
– Once the command has been executed, the newly set behavior will take effect instantly. You can verify it by opening the lid or plugging in the charger to check that the MacBook operates as intended.
—
### Reverting to Default Settings
If you choose to revert to the original automatic startup functionality, you can reset the setting by typing the following command in Terminal:
“`
sudo nvram -d BootPreference
“`
This action will erase the custom setting and restore the default startup behavior.
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### Who Gains from This Solution?
This solution is especially beneficial for:
– **Power users**: Individuals who desire complete control over their MacBook’s operations.
– **Regular travelers**: Users who wish to keep their MacBook off while charging during journeys.
– **Privacy-focused users**: Those who want to make sure their MacBook remains powered off until they consciously choose to activate it.
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### Obstacles for Non-Tech-Savvy Users
While the solution is a welcome enhancement, it’s important to recognize that the process may appear daunting for individuals unfamiliar with Terminal. Unlike a simple toggle in the macOS Settings application, entering commands in Terminal necessitates accuracy and a basic familiarity with the tool’s operation. Apple’s choice to deliver the fix in this manner has drawn some criticism, as it creates a barrier for less technologically inclined users.
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### Concluding Thoughts
Apple’s launch of a fix for the automatic startup functionality on M-series MacBooks represents progress, providing users with greater control over their devices.
