MacOS 10.12.2 might fix those pesky 2016 MacBook Pro graphics issues

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.

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:

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.