Kuo: Apple to include new scissor switch keyboard in MacBook (9to5mac.com)

Article summary

Apple is reportedly planning to introduce a new scissor switch keyboard in the 2019 MacBook Air and 2020 MacBook Pro, replacing the butterfly mechanism used since 2015. The butterfly keyboard has been criticized for its low-travel design and reliability issues. The new keyboard is expected to offer improved durability and longer key travel. This change is seen as a significant update to the MacBook lineup.

Main themes

• MacBook keyboard design
• Butterfly mechanism issues
• Scissor switch keyboard
• Apple product updates
• Keyboard reliability
• User preferences

What commenters say

• The butterfly keyboard's reliability issues and low-travel design have been major problems for many users, and the switch to a scissor switch keyboard is a welcome change. Some users prefer the butterfly keyboard's feel and thinness, despite its reliability issues. The decision to stick with the butterfly design for so long has been criticized as a prioritization of form over function. Others argue that Apple's reluctance to change the design earlier was due to logistical and production considerations. A return to the previous scissor switch design would have been a better solution than the butterfly mechanism. The new keyboard's quality and potential issues are unknown and may introduce new problems. Some users have found workarounds or modifications to improve their keyboard experience, such as remapping keys or using external keyboards.