Apple’s move to its own chips in 2020 didn’t just bring more speed and efficiency to the MacBook lineup. It also brought the 16-inch model’s Magic Keyboard to the rest of the lineup, closing the book on one of the most maligned hardware designs in Apple’s history.
The butterfly keyboard was so bad that Apple launched a service program in 2018 that covered every model ever made and had to respond to a class-action lawsuit that resulted in a $50 million settlement in early 2023. Now, those checks are finally starting to go out to affected customers.
Under the terms of the settlement, Apple distributed approximately $33 million to users, with the highest amount being $395. As a reminder, there were three groups in the class:
- Group 1 ($395): If you’ve had your MacBook keyboard serviced two or more times by Apple or an authorized service provider within four years of purchase.
- Group 2 ($125): If you’ve had your MacBook keyboard serviced once through Apple or an authorized service provider within four years of purchase.
- Group 3 ($50): If you have the keys repaired through Apple or an authorized service provider.
Groups 2 and 3 had to file a claim form to receive a payment, but members of the first group will automatically receive checks if they lived in California, New York, Florida, Illinois, New Jersey, Washington, or Michigan when they bought their MacBook. Whether you filed a claim or not, check your mail because Apple may be sending you a check.
