My M2, slight "dirty screen" uniformity issue center of screen

[NotApplicable]

Difficult to photograph but somewhat annoying on light background use. There's a wide soft rectangle near the center of the screen that appears ever so slightly darker/grayer and lighter/whiter around the perimeter on white and gray content. Can't necessarily spot it just staring at the screen, but it's noticeable when scrolling around as your eyes move past the region.

Hoping it sorts itself out like some of the yellowing issues do on iPhones as just the screen settling in or curing... will keep an eye on it as the return/exchange date approaches. Although it's a BTO so a straight exchange would be difficult... I doubt I could get a replacement in the exchange window...

Anyone else seeing anything similar?

OH, this isn't a FUD post. I love the machine. I've seen similar issues on other machines throughout my life so I'm not too concerned about it, especially if everyone else is seeing it too.

 

[NotApplicable]

Difficult to photograph but somewhat annoying on light background use. There's a wide soft rectangle near the center of the screen that appears ever so slightly darker/grayer and lighter/whiter around the perimeter on white and gray content. Can't necessarily spot it just staring at the screen, but it's noticeable when scrolling around as your eyes move past the region.

Hoping it sorts itself out like some of the yellowing issues do on iPhones as just the screen settling in or curing... will keep an eye on it as the return/exchange date approaches. Although it's a BTO so a straight exchange would be difficult... I doubt I could get a replacement in the exchange window...

Anyone else seeing anything similar?

OH, this isn't a FUD post. I love the machine. I've seen similar issues on other machines throughout my life so I'm not too concerned about it, especially if everyone else is seeing it too.

Got a couple photos. There's a darker rectangular area with lighter top border... sadface! Wouldn't be all that noticeable if it weren't in the center region of the display. This is at 50% brightness in a daylit room (my typical use).

 

[Apple_Robert]

Is this noticeable outside of the specific background testing site you used?

 

[NotApplicable]

Is this noticeable outside of the specific background testing site you used?

I noticed it from use, didn’t go looking for problems.

During use, its noticeable when your eye is following items that scroll over the region (e.g. black text on a white background, like scrolling on a webpage). You’d think the screen were dirty, but it’s brand new so that’s not the issue.

If you just pull up a web page with text and stare at it static, it’s nearly unnoticeable. Then I pulled up this test and it’s obvious viewing statically in some scenarios. I wouldn’t care if I didn’t notice it during use.

Like I said, this isn’t just FUD— I’m not a FUDster. I’ve never returned/exchanged an Apple computer for a QA issue (though I have experienced QA issues with launch day iPhones). This replaces my M1 air, which replaced my 2019 Intel Air, which replaced my 2018 13” Pro, etc etc etc

 

[wilberforce]

I would replace it before return period is up. Or ask for a screen replacement.
I had a similar thing on an iPhone, and the Apple Store had no hesitation agreeing to replace it. So glad I did, because it would have bugged me endlessly. Once you see it, you can't unsee it. every. single. day.

 

[NotApplicable]

I would replace it before return period is up. Or ask for a screen replacement.
I had a similar thing on an iPhone, and the Apple Store had no hesitation agreeing to replace it. So glad I did, because it would have bugged me endlessly. Once you see it, you can't unsee it. every. single. day.

Yeah, I’d love to do an exchange but it’s a BTO… store app shows earliest delivery of this configuration as end of August. Long time to go without a computer after already waiting for this long… wonder if they have options for that (like ship return once receiving exchange)…

 

[wilberforce]

Yeah, I’d love to do an exchange but it’s a BTO… store app shows earliest delivery of this configuration as end of August. Long time to go without a computer after already waiting for this long… wonder if they have options for that (like ship return once receiving exchange)…

See if they will do a screen replacement. I know, you would prefer to have a brand new perfect machine, not a repaired machine, but I had a logic board replaced in my MPB in 48 hrs - which included overnight Fedex to Texas and back.

 

[Apple_Robert]

Yeah, I’d love to do an exchange but it’s a BTO… store app shows earliest delivery of this configuration as end of August. Long time to go without a computer after already waiting for this long… wonder if they have options for that (like ship return once receiving exchange)…

I have read a few posts on here where a BTO had to be returned and the customer was allowed to keep the Mac until the new one arrived. I would definitely ask an Apple rep if that can apply to you.

 

[Apple_Robert]

I noticed it from use, didn’t go looking for problems.

During use, its noticeable when your eye is following items that scroll over the region (e.g. black text on a white background, like scrolling on a webpage). You’d think the screen were dirty, but it’s brand new so that’s not the issue.

If you just pull up a web page with text and stare at it static, it’s nearly unnoticeable. Then I pulled up this test and it’s obvious viewing statically in some scenarios. I wouldn’t care if I didn’t notice it during use.

Like I said, this isn’t just FUD— I’m not a FUDster. I’ve never returned/exchanged an Apple computer for a QA issue (though I have experienced QA issues with launch day iPhones). This replaces my M1 air, which replaced my 2019 Intel Air, which replaced my 2018 13” Pro, etc etc etc

If it is noticeable during normal use, I would return. If that was my BTO, I would return. I am waiting on my BTO as well (8/11 - 8/18). Hopefully, it won't have any problems.

 

[Dealmans]

If it is noticeable during normal use, I would return. If that was my BTO, I would return. I am waiting on my BTO as well (8/11 - 8/18). Hopefully, it won't have any problems.

so you are renting the one in your sig?

 

[NotApplicable]

Update to this: Apple support was amazing. Within 24 hours they had the express replacement approved and ordered. Don’t need to return original BTO until the new one arrives.

 

[jdb8167]

Update to this: Apple support was amazing. Within 24 hours they had the express replacement approved and ordered. Don’t need to return original BTO until the new one arrives.

Stock seems better on the M2 MacBook Airs than the M1 Pro/Max/Ultras. We already know that the M2s sell in greater numbers but they seem to be somewhat more available. Anyway, good news. That screen would really bug me.

 

[Apple_Robert]

so you are renting the one in your sig?

I returned that one last week and am waiting for another one with a 2TB drive.

 

[NotApplicable]

Just received the replacement Friday. No display issues to be found! Will aim
to get the original shipped back tomorrow.

 

[ThailandToo]

I would replace it before return period is up. Or ask for a screen replacement.
I had a similar thing on an iPhone, and the Apple Store had no hesitation agreeing to replace it. So glad I did, because it would have bugged me endlessly. Once you see it, you can't unsee it. every. single. day.

I agree here, this isn't normal. Apple will replace it. Although I thought the same thing with Jelly-scrolling feature on the iPad mini newest model, but Apple swears that's normal. I'm like on a $650 iPad mini I expect more from Apple.

 

[Rich101088]

Hey guys, I also think I have this issue. Got my MacBook Air M2 on Friday and noticed on white screens there is a darker patch.

Tried to get a photo:

Its quite hard to get a decent photo, I live quite far from an Apple Store so not sure what to do

 

[ikari_01]

Oh, I'm not the only one! Same happened to me, got my M2 Air last Monday and I noticed the issue the first time trying to read a web page (black letters on white background). When scrolling I always had the feeling something was wrong with my eyes due to the dark spots appearing. Very distracting and irritating

Returned it on Thursday, replacement is due Feb 03-Feb 07; Fingers crossed it will look better.

 

[Nervous_Wreck]

Hi all,

I purchased a Macbook Air M2 about three months ago now.

Loving the machine and a huge upgrade from my 2011 Macbook Pro.
I've got a quick question to ask regarding screen uniformity.

I've only now just noticed a slightly greyer/dull spot on the screen, visible mostly on plain white backgrounds, scrolling through Google search for example.

It's on the left hand side of the screen, slightly above half way down from the top.

Overall the display is fantastic, it also exhibit's hardly any light bleeding which is great. I guess it's a case if when you notice these things you just always know it's there.

With everyday usage I do forget about it as my eyes are naturally viewing the centre of the screen.

From my research it's most likely a classic case of slight DSE.

Is my display within build quality tolerance, should I just accept that not all displays are perfect?

I've attached a few images and videos demonstrating the dull spot on the display. Upper left hand corner.

https://imgur.com/sQ6NgR1

https://imgur.com/WzHbyub

https://imgur.com/a/AwK9ai5

https://imgur.com/a/tYA3wFu

Thanks in advance any thoughts would be great!

 

[Rich101088]

Oh, I'm not the only one! Same happened to me, got my M2 Air last Monday and I noticed the issue the first time trying to read a web page (black letters on white background). When scrolling I always had the feeling something was wrong with my eyes due to the dark spots appearing. Very distracting and irritating

Returned it on Thursday, replacement is due Feb 03-Feb 07; Fingers crossed it will look better.

Think Im going to try replace mine, its especially bad like when you say scrolling black text on a white background. Fingers crossed the next one is better

 

[Nervous_Wreck]

Im going to try replace mine, its especially bad like when you say scrolling black text on a white background. Fingers crossed the next one is better

See my post above, I'm tossing up if it's worth my while taking mine back. My M2 Air is definitely out of the straight returns eligibility, few months old now. The dark patch is only slight on the left hand side, not really noticeable with every day usage. Not sure if it's worth the hassle, Apple was most likely send it away for return, and that's if I even convince them there is something wrong. The every day eye will. struggle to see it at first glance and will thank I'm bat **** crazy!!! Then again I might end up with another dud screen... Argh!

 

[ikari_01]

The every day eye will. struggle to see it at first glance and will thank I'm bat **** crazy!!!

I don't think so. I showed mine to a number of family members, all with less pedantic eyes than myself, and everyone noticed it, not so much on a still screen but immediately when scrolling.
Personally, getting it replaced is worth it to me, because it's such a nice product otherwise and I don't want to feel annoyed everytime I use it. Also I don't want to blame myself later for not having done anything about it.
Finally, IMO a new device priced and marketed like this should not have such blemishes out of the box so I think we're in the right to ask for an amendment.
I was hesitant first because I don't like making phone calls one bit But the support was really friendly and helpful in my case.

 

[Rich101088]

I don't think so. I showed mine to a number of family members, all with less pedantic eyes than myself, and everyone noticed it, not so much on a still screen but immediately when scrolling.
Personally, getting it replaced is worth it to me, because it's such a nice product otherwise and I don't want to feel annoyed everytime I use it. Also I don't want to blame myself later for not having done anything about it.
Finally, IMO a new device priced and marketed like this should not have such blemishes out of the box so I think we're in the right to ask for an amendment.
I was hesitant first because I don't like making phone calls one bit But the support was really friendly and helpful in my case.

Im the same, everyone noticed it "why is it darker there". Im still within 14 days so have sent the company I bought it from an email showing the problem. We'll see what they say, not had a reply yet. I agree with your points, ive had countless cheaper products before without this issue, so don't see why I should accept it, especially as I hole to keep this for a good few years!

 

[papbot]

Im the same, everyone noticed it "why is it darker there". Im still within 14 days so have sent the company I bought it from an email showing the problem. We'll see what they say, not had a reply yet. I agree with your points, ive had countless cheaper products before without this issue, so don't see why I should accept it, especially as I hole to keep this for a good few years!

You and @Nervous_Wreck definitely have the defective screen. That shadow as I called it, my wife called it a cloud, on the left side of the screen about in the center is where all the defects seem to be. If you look for the thread about shadows on the screen you’ll see my images.( https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/m2-mba-shadows-on-the-screen.2374323/ ) I cleared my desktop and then chose a blank, light colored wallpaper called Gold from Settings, took it in to an Apple Store to show them and walked out 15 minutes later with a replacement that is perfect.

 

[ikari_01]

Unfortunately it seems that the options I chose (16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) are not being stocked at my Apple Store so my only option was to get a blind replacement BTO.
Also when I called Apple support I was told that I could not get it replaced at an Apple Store at all because I ordered it online in the first place. Wondering if that's actually true...

 

[papbot]

Unfortunately it seems that the options I chose (16GB RAM, 1TB SSD) are not being stocked at my Apple Store so my only option was to get a blind replacement BTO.
Also when I called Apple support I was told that I could not get it replaced at an Apple Store at all because I ordered it online in the first place. Wondering if that's actually true...

I had ordered the one with the defective screen on line. But got it replaced at the store with no problem. They didn’t have the exact configuration, I had ordered the basic but had to go with the 10GB gpu. So I just paid the extra and took it. It was the same Midnight I had ordered.