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Some users report popping sounds on new 16-inch MacBook Pro model

AGAIN with that popping sound…

A number of users are reporting a popping or clicking sound from the speakers on the new 16-inch MacBook Pro, similar to a recurring problem that has affected Apple’s portable Macs over the last several years.

The users have reported hearing repeated clicking or popping sound coming from the notebook’s speakers. The issue appears to be intermittent and there’s presently no information as to how widespread the occurrence is. There have also been claims that the noises are present on the 16-inch MacBook Pro display models in a number of Apple Store locations.

The problem seems to be similar to the clipping users see when audio peaks too high, or when speakers are quickly switched off and then on. A number of users have also stated that the issue occurs when skimming through a video or audio file.

According to AppleInsider reader Rene, the issue occurred while using Final Cut Pro X.

“I bought a new 16 inch last Saturday and I also have the issue and I’m currently in contact with Apple Support to fix the issue,” he said. 

Currently 195 people have said on an Apple Support discussion forum that they have the problem.

Perhaps more importantly, the following video of the issue was captured and sent along:

Apple has yet to officially respond to the issue, albeit some users have stated that the company is aware of it.

So far Apple has not officially responded to the issue, though reportedly some people are hearing that the company is aware of it. 

One workaround that has been discovered is to open QuickTime Player, create a new audio recording, and go about using the computer without actually starting to record. Simply keep the window open and this eliminates the unexpected sound.

Others report that starting a video or audio in YouTube or SoundCloud in your brower, then leaving to go to another page helps. Users will hear the popping sound as you leave that first page, but then allegedly it goes away, or at least temporarily.

Supporting rumors have surfaced on the fcp.co site run by professional Final Cut Pro users that have pointed to Final Cut Pro X 10.4.7 as the culprit.

A similar issue occurred in 2017 when users of the then-current 2016 MacBook Pro with Touch Bar reported experiencing this problem. Apple would eventually issue a patch that resolved the issue, which is what users are hoping for now.

If you’ve come across the popping issue on your spiffy new 16-inch MacBook Pro, please let us know about your experience in the comments.

Via AppleInsider and fcp.co