MacOS Big Sur 11.2.2 is out---and it's an update that's worth installing in a hurry if you've got a newer MacBook Pro or MacBook Air. That's because, according to Apple, its latest operating system update stops certain MacBook models from "incurring damage" when they are connected to third-party docks and USB-C hubs.
Apple doesn't give any extra information about this bug in its software release notes. That makes it difficult to know how many Macs---if any---have suffered the kind of "damage" Apple refers to. Nonetheless, it's clearly something Apple considers important enough to rush out a new software update to address.
Notes for Big Sur 11.2.2
This is the second macOS Big Sur update to be released in February. Its predecessor, macOS Big Sur 11.2.1, was made available to users by Apple earlier this month. MacOS 11.2.1 also fixed a bug---in that case, one that stopped 2016 and 2017 MacBook Pros from charging beyond 1%.
Apple's notes for the new macOS Big Sur 11.2.2 release read as follows:
"macOS Big Sur 11.2.2 prevents MacBook Pro (2019 or later) and MacBook Air (2020 or later) models from incurring damage when they are connected to certain third-party, non-compliant powered USB-C hubs and docks."
Slightly frustratingly, Apple doesn't give a list of compliant docks and USB-C hubs, so that users can know what to avoid at present. For now, it seems wise not to use your MacBook with either of these peripherals or accessories until you have updated the software accordingly.
MacOS Big Sur 11.3 Is on the Way
Apple is currently in the process of testing macOS Big Sur 11.3. This update will add a number of big new features to macOS Big Sur. These features include additional options for customization on Safari, further optimization for the use of iOS apps on Apple Silicon M1 Macs, support for the use of the latest Xbox Series X/S and PlayStation 5 DualSense controllers for playing macOS games, and more.
It is not clear when macOS Big Sur 11.3 will be made available for download. However, given that Big Sur 11.2.2 features some critical fixes, it's definitely worth downloading this update in the meantime, rather than simply waiting for macOS 11.3. That is especially true if you're running one of the MacBooks that Apple mentions.
How to Install the Update
To update to the latest version of macOS Big Sur, go to the Apple menu > System Preferences, then click on Software Update on your Mac. You can also install the latest version from the App Store.
