Apple released the newest update to macOS Sierra Monday, carrying the version number 10.12.3, which includes a number of optimizations for all Mac users, especially those who own the 2016 MacBook Pro.
MacBook Pro Battery Fix
Though Apple didn't explicitly state it in its release notes, the update should quash a bug burrowing Safari, which according to reports plagued the 2016 MacBook Pro models during Consumer Reports' product testing, causing it to withhold a recommendation for the laptop, which was a big deal when announced, considering it was the first time for Consumer Reports to give a lukewarm reception to any Apple laptop, let alone gift it a recommendation.
This new update was given to Consumer Reports earlier, which according to them fixed the laptop's battery woes, prompting them to finally hand out their recommendation.
Aside from purported fixes to the MacBook Pro's battery issues, macOS Sierra 10.12.3 includes improvements to automatic graphics switching for the 15-inch MacBook Pro model. Previously, 13- or 15-inch models encountered a graphics glitch with Adobe Premiere Pro. This has been ironed out as part of the new software update.
Other Changes Included In macOS Sierra 10.12.3
Release notes state that an issue which previously rendered users unable to search of scanned PDF documents in Preview, and a compatibility issue with PDFs exported with encryption enabled have also been fixed. Apple has also ironed out an issue that prevented third-party applications from properly importing images from digital cameras.
For those interested in the security component of macOS Sierra 10.12.3, Apple has uploaded a detailed security content page, which includes changes to Bluetooth, Graphics Drivers, and more.
How To Download The New Update
To download the latest software, the easiest way is to navigate over to the Mac App Store, and check the "Updates" tab beside "Purchased."
There should be a macOS Sierra 10.12.3 update listed therein, and all users have to do is click on the update button and wait for it to install. The system needs to be restarted to complete the installation process, as usual.
The newest MacBook Pro models were unveiled last year in October, with the beefier 13- and 15-inch models packing the Touch Bar, a horizontal OLED strip that replaces the function row found on traditional MacBook keyboard layouts — morphing into a smorgasbord of options depending on the app.
Upon release, several reports of dismal battery drain, graphics issues, and complaints about the new MacBook Pro's performance started to circulate online, besides the usual banter in relation to the fact that Apple has decided to do away with diverse ports for the new MacBook Pro — it only has four USB-C inputs, a headphone jack, and nothing else.
While the ports conundrum can be easily solved by third-party omnibus solutions, an erring battery is more pernicious down the line. Hopefully macOS Sierra 10.12.3 does indeed iron out the laptop's battery performance woes.
Have you received and installed the new update yet? Feel free to tell us about your experience in the comments section below!
