There are a couple of steps to reset some of the underlying power controllers and firmware on a Mac Computer. This has become even more important to know now that batteries are internal and non-removable.

MacBooks with a non-removable battery

  1. Shut down your Mac.
  2. On your built-in keyboard, press and hold all of these keys:
    • Shift  on the left side of your keyboard
    • Control  on the left side of your keyboard
    • Option (Alt)  on the left side of your keyboard
  3. While holding all three keys, press and hold the power button as well
  4. Keep holding all four keys for 10 seconds.
  5. Release all keys, then press the power button to turn on your Mac.

 

MacBooks with the T2 chip: 

  1. Shut down your Mac.
  2. Press and hold the power button for 10 seconds, then release the button.
  3. Wait a few seconds, then press the power button to turn on your Mac.

If the issue persists, follow these steps to reset the SMC:

  1. Shut down your Mac.
  2. On your built-in keyboard, press and hold all of the following keys. Your Mac might turn on.
    • Control  on the left side of your keyboard
    • Option (Alt)  on the left side of your keyboard
    • Shift  on the right side of your keyboard
  3. Keep holding all three keys for 7 seconds, then press and hold the power button as well. If your Mac is on, it will turn off as you hold the keys.
  4. Keep holding all four keys for another 7 seconds, then release them.
  5. Wait a few seconds, then press the power button to turn on your Mac.
Desktop Computers:
  1. Shut down your Mac, then unplug the power cord.
  2. Wait 15 seconds, then plug the power cord back in.
  3. Wait 5 seconds, then press the power button to turn on your Mac.

Does my Mac have the Apple T2 Security Chip?

  • iMac Pro
  • Mac Pro introduced in 2019
  • Mac mini introduced in 2018
  • MacBook Air introduced in 2018 or later
  • MacBook Pro introduced in 2018 or later