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Apple's T2 chip will block some third-party repairs of new devices
Small repair shops and tech enthusiasts who attempt to fix their new Apple devices may be taking a serious risk in doing so. According to a report from The Verge, Apple confirmed that its new T2 security chip is designed to lock down devices after repair if it doesn't recognize certain authorized replacement parts.
Word of this new policy came out last month in an Apple document circulated among authorized service providers. In order to replace certain hardware components, such as the Touch ID sensor or the logic board on new Macs, the provider must run a specific piece of diagnostic software.
This program, called "AST 2 System Configuration," works in conjunction with the T2 security chip. If this step isn't performed on devices with the T2 chip, it could result in an inoperable machine.
[...] Apple only provides the special application to its own stores and authorized service providers. That means that unauthorized service providers, small repair shops, and individuals can't completely and properly replace certain parts of new Macs.
Also at Engadget, Notebookcheck, and MacRumors.
Previously: Apple's T2 Security Chip Prevents Linux From Installing on New Macs
(Score: 3, Interesting) by Rich on Wednesday November 14 2018, @11:21AM
So simple copying won't do, and I assume all authorization actions have to go through Apple as well. It used to be (for the 2006 models) that there was a (grey-ly obtainable) software that would write serial numbers to configuration flash if the board had none written yet (or had been reset through SPI flashing).
For the 2012 models (Retina onwards), the software needed to be online. My 2012 Retina MBP's soldered-on RAM died (with the not-so-helpful diagnostic information to change the offending module) and I took it to a component-level repair (or so these 'smart'asses claimed) place. They messed up the job so badly that Apple refused to exchange the board, but only offered a new one (that was above the cost for a complete used computer of the same spec). The service center guy himself was very nice however and said he'd flash my serial number if I bring in a clean board. I eventually found a board at the other end of the world, but couldn't be bothered to reflash the serial. It mismatches the one on the case now, but I don't care, because the case one probably would be non-legit anyway, with the replacement board having a slightly faster CPU.
After that experience I haven't bought any other machine from Apple - and from the article we learn that the experience is going to be even worse now.