Apple Fixes MacBook Shutdown Issues

Apple has released a firmware update for its popular MacBook line of laptops, which it says fixes an issue that causes the systems to shut down unexpectedly. The company is advising that all owners install the patch, even if they have sent in their units for repair. The problem was first discovered in August, following at least two other issues including overheating and case discoloration in some units.

"The SMC Update improves the MacBook's internal monitoring system and addresses issues with unexpected shutdowns," Apple said in a notice describing the update. Although the exact number of laptops affected is unknown, a site, macbookrandomshutdown.com, was started shortly after the problem was discovered and has since grown to over 1,500 members.