Apple to replace worn-out anti-reflective coating on MacBook screens

Enlarge / Got a screen that looks like this? You might be eligible for a replacement. (credit: MacRumors)

For the last few years, Apple has combatted the glossiness of its glass Mac screens with a special anti-reflective coating. For some MacBook and MacBook Pro owners, though, that coating eventually began to wear off, leaving screens with a nasty mottled appearance.

MacRumors reports that Apple is quietly launching a "Quality Program" for screens with this problem. The company will provide out-of-warranty repairs for affected MacBooks and Retina MacBook Pros for up to three years after the purchase date or until October 16, 2016, whichever is longer. If you've already paid for service related to the issue, you can contact Apple to see if you're eligible for a refund.

Apple won't be launching its typical repair program for this fix—there's no page where you can go and check your serial number to see if you're eligible, and no concrete process laid out for obtaining service or reimbursement for previous service. But if you call Apple support or take your MacBook into an Apple Store and make your case, you should be covered as long as your laptop fits into the right time window. MacRumors reports that Apple may also contact some users directly.