Some new MacBook Pro chargers include change that breaks accessory compatibility

Here’s something that hasn’t gotten much attention. The 140W power adapter that comes with Apple’s new 16-inch MacBook Pro has a subtle design change. As a result, some accessories are no longer compatible. However, not everyone has the new design.

New duckhead design is a key change

Some early buyers of Apple’s new M5 Pro and M5 Max 16-inch MacBook Pro report that the design of the power adapter’s duckhead has changed

A teardown from ChargerLab in March shows the change, and multiple posts from customers online flag the issue.

thers have the original design — adding to the mystery behind the change.

Apple power adapters with a removable AC wall adapter, or duckhead, traditionally use a C7 connection, which resembles the shape of a pair of glasses.

The 140W power adapter that comes with Apple’s new 16-inch MacBook Pro, however, has a different connection. It’s a more symmetrical shape.

Customers report accessory incompatibility

For two accessories, the new shape appears to break compatibility.

First, Apple’s $19 Power Adapter Extension Cable doesn’t work. It uses the duckhead shape that all other Apple power adapters with modular plugs have.

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