2018 MacBook Pro Models Have Crackling Sound Problem

Some owners of the 2018 MacBook Pro models are complaining about what appears to be an annoying audio problem with their devices. Apparently, their macOS-running laptops are creating crackling sounds from time to time.

MacRumors reported Wednesday that owners of the 2018 MacBook Pro are complaining via Reddit, MacRumors Forums and Apple Support Communities about hearing crackling noises from their laptops during audio playback. The crackling happens spontaneously on both the 13-inch and the 15-inch versions of the device.

Some customers even shared videos to expose the sound problem on Apple’s new laptops online. The crackling comes from the built-in speakers of the 2018 MacBook Pro. However, it’s hard to say what exactly is causing the problem since there are varying instances when the problem persists.

Some say that they only hear the crackling noise when listing to music in iTunes. There are also users claiming that the annoying sound is present only when using GarageBand or watching videos on the YouTube app. Some are also saying that the crackling is present when running Windows via Boot Camp.

There are speculations on the possible causes of the issue. It is said to be most likely due to radio interference due to lack of shielding, audio drivers and the T2 chip. Apple has yet to comment or acknowledge the problem.

This isn’t the first time that Apple’s MacBook Pro was hit by an audio problem. The 2016 MacBook Pro also produced crackling sounds. Compared to the present-day problem, the issue with the 2016 models was more widespread. Plus, the crackling sound of the devices was so loud that many built-in speakers got permanently damaged.

Thus far, the problem with the 2018 MacBook Pro isn’t as bad as that of the 2016 MacBook Pro. Furthermore, the crackling noise isn’t really present in a huge number of devices. But since some people are experiencing it, it’s just right for Apple to do something about it.

According to Cult of Mac, the problem does not indicate faulty speakers since the crackling noise isn’t persistent. The site says Apple could eliminate the issue by identifying and eliminating the bug that’s causing it. Apple is currently beta testing macOS Mojave and some testers are saying that the beta builds appear to fix the problem.