Internal Apple Documents Confirm New MacBook Pro Has Membrane Under Keycaps to Block Debris

Internal Apple documents have confirmed that the new MacBook Pro keyboard has a membrane under the keycaps to prevent debris from entering the butterfly mechanism. When announcing the new MacBook Pro, Apple noted that the laptop features "an improved third-generation keyboard for quieter typing"; however, it told the Verge that the keyboard was not designed to address issues with dust and debris.

MacRumors has obtained the Canadian and European versions of Apple's internal 2018 MacBook Pro Service Readiness Guide which contain the follow excerpt.

Keyboard and Keycaps
The keyboard has a membrane under the keycaps to prevent debris from entering the butterfly mechanism. The procedure for the space bar replacement has also changed from the previous model. Repair documentation and service videos will be available when keycap parts begin shipping.


The U.S. version of the Service Readiness Guide does not have the same excerpt but it has a link to a separate document titled "Butterfly Mechanism Keycap Replacement MacBook Pro (2018)" that says:

Caution: The keyboard has a membrane under the keycaps to prevent debris from entering the butterfly mechanism. Be careful not to tear the membrane. A torn membrane will result in a top case replacement.

If you haven't already seen the new membrane, check out this video from iFixit. Unfortunately, the third generation keyboard is not compatible with previous MacBook Pros and will not be offered as a replacement.

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