Apple has faced a barrage of criticism over its decision to leave only USB-C/Thunderbolt 3 ports in its new range of MacBook Pros, meaning many owners are forced to buy adaptors for older peripherals. In an attempt to placate angry users, Apple has now temporarily reduced the price of USB-C adaptors and cables, along with all of its USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 peripherals.
"We recognize that many users, especially pros, rely on legacy connectors to get work done today and they face a transition. We want to help them move to the latest technology and peripherals, as well as accelerate the growth of this new ecosystem," Apple wrote in a statement.
Some of the adaptors have been reduced by as much as 50 percent, while third-party peripherals, including the 4K and 5K LG Ultrafine displays, have dropped by 25 percent. SanDisk's USB-C SD card reader is also getting a discount, down from $49 to $29.
Apple's USB-C adaptors are being reduced, along with some of its cables. Here's the full list.
- USB-C to traditional USB adapter from $19 to $9
- Thunderbolt 3 to Thunderbolt 2 adapter from $49 to $29
- USB-C to Lightning cable (1 meter) from $25 to $19
- USB-C to Lightning cable (2 meters) from $35 to $29
- Multiport adapter with HDMI, USB, and USB-C from $69 to $49
- Multiport adapter with VGA, USB, and USB-C from $69 to $49
Apple USB-C power adaptors and the USB-C Charge Cable (2m) are not part of the offer.
Remember, you only have until December 31, 2016 to take advantage of the offer. If you've recently purchased an adaptor at full price, Apple will provide a credit for the difference between the costs.
As Apple executive Phil Schiller explained recently, the iPhone maker has been surprised by the amount of anger directed at the new MacBook Pros. Their high price, lack of SD card slot, and the removal of legacy ports hasn't been well received, yet Apple's online store is apparently taking more orders for the new machines than "any pro notebook before."