Blog •

Understanding and Repairing the MacBook Pro’s Infamous “Butterfly Keyboard” Issues

The MacBook Pro’s “Butterfly” keyboard — a hallmark of Apple’s quest for slim, efficient design — has infamously garnered more attention for its flaws than its functionality.

Users often grapple with sticky keys, unresponsive inputs, and mysteriously repeating characters, turning a seamless typing experience into a test of patience.

Understanding these issues and others – like slow speed – and knowing how to resolve them can help you restore your MacBook Pro to its optimal performance.

This article will help solve the notorious “Butterfly” keyboard, by examining its causes, and effects, and providing insight into possible solutions, including the expert repair services offered by iFixNSell in Orlando.

Why is my butterfly keyboard acting up?

First introduced in 2015, the “Butterfly” keyboard was touted by Apple as a revolutionary redesign that would offer a more responsive and comfortable typing experience while allowing for thinner and lighter MacBooks.

Named after the mechanism under the keys that resembles a butterfly’s wings, it promised precision and stability far superior to the traditional “scissor” mechanism.

However, users soon started reporting a plethora of issues. Some keys would register twice while others would fail to respond altogether. Additionally, users noted that dust or small particles could easily render keys inoperable — a minor issue in other keyboards but a significant problem in the Butterfly design because of its minimal key travel and tighter construction.

Despite attempts by Apple to rectify these problems, including introducing new generations of the Butterfly keyboard and offering an extended repair program, the issues persisted. In 2020, Apple returned to the more reliable scissor mechanism for their keyboards, but many users are still dealing with the problematic Butterfly keyboard on their devices.

While some may have found temporary fixes for these issues, for many, the problem remains, hindering their daily tasks. In such cases, professional iMac repair experts, such as iFixNSell, might be the best solution.

How to repair your iMac keyboard: short-term and long-term

The keyboard is your primary interaction point with your MacBook Pro, so any issue that impairs its functionality can drastically affect your productivity. There are a few short-term solutions you can try before considering long-term alternatives.

A simple first step is to clean the keyboard, using a can of compressed air to dislodge any dust or particles stuck under the keys. Apple even provides a guide on how to do this properly.

Another immediate solution is to reset the system management controller (SMC), which can resolve hardware-related issues.

However, these solutions might not always work, especially if the issue lies in the butterfly mechanism itself. For persistent problems, a long-term solution might be necessary, especially if you want to avoid buying a new computer.

You should consider either professional repair or replacement if these at-home solutions don’t work. Expert technicians, like those at iFixNSell, can effectively rectify keyboard issues, offering a more reliable and hassle-free solution.

You can get back to a smooth typing experience, ensuring that your MacBook Pro remains a reliable tool for work and play.

And if you’re in the Orlando area and you’d like to know how much it’d cost, just ask for a free quote. Whether it’s repair or replacement, you’ll get a 100% transparent look at how much it’ll cost.

How to Repair Your Macbook When Its Slow Speed Is Getting You Down

Nothing stifles productivity or ruins your streaming experience more than a slow Mac. It’s a common yet frustrating issue faced by many Apple users.

If you’re dealing with a Mac that’s running more like a tortoise than a hare, the problem could be happening for several reasons, including hardware failures, outdated software, or simply overuse.

But don’t worry — we’re here to demystify the causes and offer solutions to get your Mac back in the fast lane. And, if your Macbook needs to be repaired, we can do that too.

How to recognize slow Mac symptoms

Prevention is the first step in combating a slow iMac, and that starts with recognizing the signs early on. If your Mac is running slower than usual, you’ll likely notice a few key indicators.

Lagging responses when you click or open apps, extended loading times for websites or documents, and the frequent appearance of the Spinning Beach Ball of Death are all warning signs.

Additionally, if your device struggles with multitasking, causing freezes or crashes when multiple apps are open, it’s a clear sign your Mac isn’t performing at its optimal speed. By identifying these symptoms early, you can address issues before they snowball into more significant problems like frequent crashing and, potentially, CPU failure.

How to repair issues making your Macbook slow

While it’s easy to blame your software for a slow Mac, hardware issues can also be at fault. One common culprit is an aging hard drive. As a hard drive gets older, it takes longer to retrieve data, which can result in slow performance. Upgrading to a Solid-State Drive (SSD) can potentially resolve this issue.

Another factor could be insufficient RAM. Your iMac’s Random Access Memory (RAM) is where it stores data for running applications. If your Mac lacks enough RAM to handle your typical workload, it may have to swap data in and out of the hard drive, slowing things down. Upgrading your RAM, when possible, can lead to significant performance improvements. And if your Mac dies suddenly and repeatedly, it could be due to low RAM.

Next, outdated operating systems can cause your Mac to slow down, as newer applications may require more system resources than your current OS can provide. Regular updates can resolve this, offering optimized code, bug fixes, and improved functionality.

Another potential software-related slowdown can come from having too many applications opening at startup. These consume valuable system resources and may result in a sluggish system. Adjusting your startup items can help curb this issue.

Lastly, malware infections could also be causing your iMac’s lethargy. Unwanted programs or hidden background processes can consume your Mac’s processing power, causing it to lag.

Regular system scans and cautious online behavior can prevent these unwanted invaders. If they’ve already infiltrated your system, a professional service like iFixnSell can help repair them and restore your Macbook’s speed.

How to repair your slow Mac even if it’s too late

When DIY attempts aren’t enough to revive your slow Mac, consider seeking professional help. At iFixNSell, our expert technicians can diagnose and address complex issues, restoring your Mac’s performance and productivity.

Don’t let a sluggish Mac stall your tasks — reach out to iFixNSell, where swift solutions meet quality service.

Why Does My Mac Die Suddenly and Repeatedly? (Solution)

Sudden and repeated shutdowns can be alarming for any Mac user. And when it’s your computer for work, it’s even scarier. You don’t want to lose access to your files, passwords, and internet connections, even with recovery options available.

While the repeated and sudden shutdown of your Mac could be the result of several issues, it’s usually one at a time.

By understanding the root cause (and how to test for it), you’ll be able to comfortably solve the problem. Let’s cover the most common reasons for shutdowns and what you can do about it.

What causes your Mac to die suddenly?

Your Mac might be abruptly turning off due to an overheating processor, failing hardware, corrupted system files, or insufficient power supply. It’s crucial to diagnose the issue correctly to apply the appropriate fix.

Overheating

With older Macs, overheating is a common issue and a leading culprit of unexpected shutdowns. Over time, dust and debris can accumulate inside the system, clogging the fans and heatsinks that help cool down your Mac. When your system overheats, the internal temperature sensor triggers an automatic shutdown to prevent potential hardware damage.

Regularly monitoring your Mac’s internal temperature using third-party software can also alert you to overheating issues.

The fix? Either cleaning and replacing your fans yourself, or sending your PC to a reputable third-party service like iFixnSell’s Mac repair.

Software issues

Software issues like corrupted system files or software conflicts, can also cause your Mac to shut down unexpectedly. Typically, it’s due to an incompatibility between the operating system and an application, bugs in new software updates, or corrupt system files.

Signs of software-related issues might include certain applications crashing frequently, the appearance of the ‘rainbow wheel’ cursor for extended periods, system errors or warning messages, and other unusual system behavior.

If you haven’t done so already, perform all necessary software updates and restarts while your Mac is plugged in. If that doesn’t work, you may need to install virus protection software or take it to a third-party vendor to perform a full scan.

Malware or virus infections

Malware and viruses can cause your Mac to go haywire, suddenly shutting itself off among other problems. These cyber-threats exploit software vulnerabilities, leading to system instability and performance issues.

Signs of infection include slow performance, frequent crashes, unexpected pop-ups, and unfamiliar apps. Regular updates, antivirus programs, and data backups can help safeguard your Mac.

General hardware

Hardware components like the logic board, battery, RAM, or hard drive can fail over time due to regular wear and tear or due to manufacturing defects. Hardware issues can cause your Mac to behave unpredictably, frequently freezing or randomly shutting down.

Signs of hardware issues might include unusually slow performance, frequent crashing or freezing, failure to boot up, or graphical glitches on your screen.

Addressing hardware problems typically requires professional help since it involves diagnosing the problematic component, ordering a replacement, and installing it without causing further damage. If you suspect that your Mac’s problems stem from a hardware issue, it’s best to consult a professional rather than attempting a DIY solution.

At iFixnSell, our team of certified experts is equipped to diagnose and resolve any hardware issues your Mac may be experiencing. Visit our repairs page today to see what we can help you with.

How to Repair Your iMac When This Happens (Common Issues)

Losing access to your device can be daunting. Whether it’s your work device or your escape for late-night entertainment, you’ll want to find ways to fix it.

This article will focus on common iMac issues and various repair options available to help you restore your device to its optimum performance.

Common iMac issues

Hardware problems

A failing hard drive can cause your iMac to slow down, freeze, or fail to boot. It may also result in the loss of crucial data. Regularly backing up your data and paying attention to unusual noises or error messages can help you identify hard drive issues early on.

Additionally, the power supply may be the culprit if your iMac doesn’t turn on or experiences sudden shutdowns. A faulty power supply can damage other components, so addressing this issue promptly is crucial.

Lastly, insufficient or malfunctioning RAM can lead to slow performance, frequent crashes, or the inability to run multiple applications simultaneously.

Software problems

Operating system issues can cause several problems, ranging from slow performance to app crashes. Keeping your macOS updated and addressing compatibility issues can help prevent these problems. Apps can crash for various reasons, including outdated software, insufficient system resources, or software conflicts.

Generally, an iMac experiences slow performance for three reasons: limited storage space, outdated software, or an overburdened system. Clearing cache files, uninstalling unnecessary applications, and updating software can help improve your iMac’s performance.

Incompatibility issues can arise when an application or its updates need to be designed to work with your macOS version. Always check for compatibility before installing new software or updates.

DIY iMac repair solutions

A simple restart can resolve many software issues, as it clears temporary files and gives your system a fresh start. Regularly updating your macOS and applications can fix bugs and enhance performance.

To check for updates, click the Apple menu, select System Preferences, and click Software Update.

Additionally, Apple Diagnostics can help identify hardware and software issues.

To run Apple Diagnostics, disconnect all external devices (except the keyboard, mouse, and display), and turn off your Mac. Then, turn it back on and hold down the “D” key until diagnostics appear.

If software issues persist, reinstalling macOS can be a viable solution. Before proceeding, ensure you have backed up your data. Then, restart your iMac and hold down “Command + R” to enter macOS Recovery mode.

Select Reinstall macOS and follow the on-screen instructions.

Get MacBook repair in Orlando

If your iMac issues persist despite your best efforts, it’s time to seek professional help. iFixnSell offers expert MacBook repair services in Orlando, ensuring your device returns to optimal performance in no time. Our certified technicians use genuine Apple parts and provide a repair warranty, giving you peace of mind.

Opting for MacBook repair is more cost-effective than investing in a new computer. Trust iFixnSell to handle your MacBook repairs and experience high-quality, affordable service that

Unresponsive keys

One of the most common problems with older MacBooks is sticky, unresponsive keys. This tends to happen when dust, dirt, and other particles build up under the keys and disrupt their function. If you’re experiencing this issue, there are a few steps that you can take to troubleshoot it yourself.

First, use compressed air to blow out any dust, hair, or other particles from underneath the keys. This may help resolve the problem without you needing professional assistance. Second, you can try to remove the keys for deeper cleaning. Make sure you do it gently to not break them.

Problems with your display

Whether your screen is blank, blue, gray, or starts to flicker, it can get bothersome quickly. You may have to take it to a professional if the problem persists. However, before you do that, try these tips to troubleshoot the display issue yourself.

First, reset your System Management Controller (SMC). This can be done by pressing and holding the power button and the control + option keys simultaneously for 8-10 seconds. It’ll reset the SMC which might help fix any minor issues with your displays. If this doesn’t work, check your video settings in System Preferences. Make sure they are set correctly so the display is clear and bright. Finally, make sure your computer is up-to-date by running Apple diagnostics.

If these don’t work, you might want to seek iPhone, iPad, and Mac repair to get your computer fixed by experts.

The battery isn’t charging or the computer suddenly dying

It’s bad enough having your laptop run out during an important conference call or presentation. It’s even worse when it won’t charge. If your MacBook’s battery isn’t charging or dying suddenly, you should check the charger and ensure that it’s properly plugged into the wall socket and computer.

Then, do a hard reset on your computer by shutting it down, letting it reload, and restarting it once more.

If that doesn’t work, try resetting your SMC (as mentioned above). This can sometimes fix power issues with a laptop. If neither of those works, it may be time to take it to a professional Mac repair shop for help. They’ll run diagnostics on your machine and replace any damaged hardware that needs replacing. Sometimes it’s a faulty battery, and you don’t want to spend money on a new computer if all you need to replace is a battery.

The bottom line

While you can troubleshoot some of these problems yourself by following the tips provided above, sometimes it’s best to leave the job to a professional. At the end of the day, having an expert look at your laptop can help to identify and fix the core problem. So if you’re experiencing any of these problems with your MacBook, don’t hesitate to contact Orlando’s best iMac repair shop for a consultation today!

Three Things in an iPhone Repair Service

Your phone is one of your greatest assets. After all, many people use their mobile devices interchangeably for both business and personal use, making them essential devices for our day-to-day lives. And, of the many cellphone users in the world today, most opt for the iPhone due to its ease of use and annual upgrade options.

Need an ambulance? Rideshare service? Is a work client needing assistance ASAP? Addressing each of these situations is made easier with a well-functioning mobile device. If your device isn’t running up to par, however, you’ll want to consider a reputable iPhone repair service to come to the rescue.

Let’s look at a few things to consider before selecting a repair company.

Apple repair service: key considerations

Many iPhone repair companies expand their services to include:

Macbook repairs
iPad repairs
iMac repairs

However, repair services vary from one to the next. You’ll want to make sure the company you choose can handle each of your concerns and ultimately fix the device in question. On that note, make sure the company provides the specific service(s) you’re looking for (e.g., screen replacement, unlocks, water damage repair, diagnostics, etc.), especially if you have multiple concerns related to your device.

Reviews

A quick check of online reviews is typically a good indicator of a company’s ability to meet your expectations. Nothing is more nerve-wracking than finding a company that appears to have the proper expertise but ends up lacking in other areas like quality, communication, timeliness, transparency, or fair pricing.

Location

Where is the repair company located? You shouldn’t have to travel far and wide to find a good repair service.

If you live in Orlando, conduct an online search for “iPhone repair Orlando.” If your location settings are enabled, you can simply type in “phone repair near me” to find the nearest service provider regardless of where you are.

Timeliness

Last, be sure to check on the repair company’s turnaround time. Once you go in to drop off your device, ask how long the repair will take. Sometimes, additional parts must be ordered, and the device won’t be ready as quickly as you might expect.

Do you live near Orlando?

If so, you have the fortunate choice of using iFixNSell for all of your iPhone repair needs. Choosing iFixNSell ensures that you’re getting a wallet-friendly service with the most experienced technicians available. Even if you don’t have an Apple device, we may be able to help as we service Android-related issues.

Should I Repair or Replace my iPhone?

As humans, we’re much better at adaptation than prevention. We’ve all been there — you drop your iPhone, go to pick it up, and pray that it’s not cracked. Most of the time, you’re safe.

But when your iPhone screen is cracked, there are a few options you have for fixing it. You can replace the entire phone, repair the screen yourself, or take it to a professional to have it repaired. This article will explore the pros and cons of each option so that you can make the best decision for your needs.

Should I replace my iPhone?

There are a few instances where replacing an iPhone is 100% needed. If your iPhone is water damaged beyond repair, if the battery won’t hold a charge, or if the phone doesn’t turn on, then you’ll need to replace it.

If your issue is with any of these three things, replacing your iPhone is really the only option you have. But if you’re dealing with a cracked screen, there are a few things you should take into consideration before making your decision.

The first thing to think about is cost. A new iPhone can cost anywhere from $700 to $1,300, depending on your model and whether you’re buying it outright or getting it on a payment plan.

And in many cases, a repair will work much better than a replacement.

So what instances would work better for repairing your iPhone?

Should I repair my iPhone?

A repair is generally going to be much cheaper than replacing your entire iPhone. For example, if you have an iPhone XR, a screen replacement will cost you around $170.

And, in many cases, a repair will work just as well as a replacement. If your cracked screen is the only issue you’re having with your phone, then a repair is the way to go.

Plus, there are tons of other issues your phone might have that require repairs that aren’t screen related. If your power button is jammed, your microphone isn’t working, or your speaker is crackling, taking it in for a repair is going to be the best option.

So how do you get the repair done?

Well, if you’re local to Orlando, look no further. We can take care of any Macbook, iMac, iPhone, and iPad repair in the greater Orlando area.

However, if you’re from somewhere else, you’ll need to seek a different repair shop. Worst case scenario, you can ship your device to a repair shop, and they’ll ship it back. You’ll just have to cover shipping.

The great news about repair shops is that they’re much more affordable than buying a new iPhone.

The Bottom line

Replacing or repairing an iPhone can be a costly decision, but it’s one that you’ll have to make at some point. By weighing the pros and cons of each option, you can make a more informed decision about what to do with your broken device. If you’re local to Orlando, we’re here to help you get your phone repaired quickly and affordably.

How About Those Smartphone Prices?

We are still recovering from manufacturing hold-ups from COVID. Consumer demand spiked up just as production of microchips was resuming pre-COVID levels. Most every phone manufacturer is unable to keep up with demand.

Also, chip makers are pushing back by raising prices. Even if things hold steady, prices for chips will stay high for the rest of 2022. As a result, phone makes will not be able to start offering any major discounts on phones and tablets. They will likely make bundle offers with other smart devices, for example.

Now is a good time to consider a used phone as their prices tend to hold steadier even during market shortages. You will want to find a deal that has a large selection of newer models. If you live in Florida, have a look at iFixNSell (https://ifixnsell.net). They offer professional iPhone and Samsung repair in addition to their large selection of phones and laptops.

Apple Tablets vs. Android Tablets: Which Is Best?

Looking for a new tablet in today’s market can be overwhelming. With so many brands to choose from, picking the right tablet for you might take a long time, or you might miss out on something good if you rush into a purchase.

As experts in tablet repairs, we’re here to help you pick the right type of tablet for your needs. Should you go with an Apple tablet or an Android tablet? Let’s dive into what features you should be looking at to get the best value for your money.

Price

Price used to be a base of comparison between iPadOS and Android tablets. But now, there are tablets from known brands running Android that are in the same price range as Apple tablets. Brands like Samsung, Lenovo, Huawei, and Amazon are keeping up with the power and quality of Apple tablets.

If price is a major deciding factor between choosing the winner of the Apple tablets vs. Android tablets, Android tablets fare better. That’s because Apple’s cheapest iPad starts at $329. On the other hand, the cheapest Android tablet from Amazon’s Amazon Fire line starts at $59.99.

Size options

When it comes to tablet and display size, the smallest you can get from these three brands is a 7” display. If you prefer smaller-sized tablets, Amazon Fire 7 is a good option. However, this Android tablet isn’t as powerful as iPads and newer Android tablets from Samsung and Lenovo.

The smallest Apple tablet you can get is the iPad mini, which sports an 8.3” display. For bigger tablets, you can get anything from 9” to a little below 13” tablets from Lenovo, Samsung, Amazon, and Apple.

Durability

As for tablet durability, you can opt for tablets with outer materials made of aluminum, such as Apple’s iPad models. If you have no issues with thick tablets, you can also opt for a tablet that’s thicker than normal tablets without sacrificing the processing power and operating system support.

Since newer tablets are thinner than old ones, it’ll be difficult to find a newly-released tablet with thicker builds.

Additionally, since most tablets use the same materials, durability boils down to how you use your tablet. If you’re careful and use your tablet with a protective case or a tempered glass on its display, they can last longer than when you use them without any form of protection.

Screen resolution

Regarding display resolution, you can rely on Apple’s tablets because of their proprietary Retina display. Most Android tablets use AMOLED displays, which are also of high resolution.

When it comes to display quality, the rule of thumb is the resolution should be enough to support a tablet’s display size without sacrificing image quality and the smoothness of movements.

4 Common Apple Watch Issues and How to Fix Them

To help you when things get tough with your watch, here are the most common Apple watch issues and how to fix them.

As an Apple Watch user, you rely on your watch for your daily activities. If one of your Apple daily drivers encounters a problem, it can disrupt your routine. That’s why knowing the quickest and most effective fix to specific issues is important. As your trusted Apple Watch repair provider, we’ve compiled a list of the most common Apple watch issues and how you can address them:

Wake Screen on Wrist Raise doesn’t work

An Apple Watch is a watch for a reason. If you use it as your normal watch, you like to see the time as soon as you put your raise up to check. However, there are times or issues that are hindering your watch from showing you the time. It can be something in the Apple Watch’s settings you forgot to change or a more serious issue with your hardware.

Fix: Check your Settings

On your Apple Watch, go to “Settings.”
Select “General.”
Look for “Wake Screen” and make sure the “Wake Screen on Wrist Raise” is on.

Note: You can also do this on the iPhone paired to your Apple Watch through the “Watch” app.

Fix 2: Turn off Theater Mode

On your Apple Watch, pull up “Control Center.”
Scroll down and ensure Theater Mode is disabled.
Simply tap on the icon with two masks to turn the feature on and off.

To know what your Apple Watch’s Control Center icons do, read this guide from Apple.

No iPhone Connection Error

Even if your Apple Watch is totally fine, it may at times encounter a “No iPhone Connection” error. However, we can assure you that this is very common and the cause can be as simple as you forgetting to turn your iPhone’s Wi-Fi and Bluetooth on.

But if it’s a persistent issue that you experience with a single Apple Watch and multiple iPhones, you’re looking at a more serious problem that needs professional care.

Before you reach out to your local Apple Watch repair provider, make sure you try to troubleshoot on your own to save time and money. Here are some ways to do so:

Fix 1: Check if Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are on

On your iPhone, pull up “Control Center.”
Tap the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth icons. When they turn blue, that means they’re turned on.

Fix 2: Put your Apple Watch in pairing mode

When you first get your Apple Watch, its start-up should immediately be on pairing mode.
If not, it’s probably still paired with another iPhone.
Use this guide to reset and unpair an Apple Watch.

Fix 3: Turn Airplane Mode off

On your iPhone, pull up “Control Center” and turn Airplane Mode on and off.
On your Apple Watch, pull up “Control Center” and turn Airplane Mode on and off.

Fix 4: Restart your Apple Watch and iPhone

Apple Watch

To restart your Apple Watch, press and hold the side button.
Slide to power off.

iPhone

On your iPhone, press and hold the power and any of the volume buttons.
Slide to power off.
Digital Crown not responding

Aside from the “action” button, your Apple Watch’s Digital Crown is one of its only parts that you can press and rotate. That makes the Digital Crown prone to damage due to accidents or wear. If your Digital Crown stops responding, you might think it’s time you get an Apple Watch repair or a new Apple Watch. However, we highly recommend you try these fixes before seeking professional help or getting a new unit:

Fix 1: Restart your Apple Watch

To restart your Apple Watch, press and hold the side button.
Slide to power off.

Fix 2: Unpair and pair your Apple Watch

See this guide from Apple.

Fix 3: Clean your Apple Watch

Use this Apple Watch cleaning guide from Apple.

4. Poor battery life

Of all Apple’s battery-powered products, the Apple Watch is probably the one that lasts the longest. With the correct settings, your Apple Watch can last a day or more. But with the new Always On Display feature in the Series 7s, holes in Apple Watch’s battery life began to show.

However, if you don’t have Always On Display turned on or have a model that doesn’t have it but still think your Apple Watch should be lasting longer, you can tweak a few settings to save some juice. If tweaks change little to nothing, it’s time to get an Apple Watch repair.

Before you contact your repair provider, try these possible fixes:

Fix 1: Reset your Apple Watch

On your Apple Watch, go to “Settings.”
Select “General.”
Tap “Reset.”

Fix 2: Turn on Power Reserve

On your Apple Watch, go to “Settings.”
Scroll and select “Battery.”
Scroll to the bottom and slide to put your Apple Watch in Power Reserve mode.

Note: Read this support page from Apple Watch to know more about Power Reserve mode and what it can do for your Apple Watch.