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Apple releases fix for 27" iMac graphics flickering issue

Apple Monday afternoon released a firmware update for its new 27-inch iMac that aims to fix flickering graphics issues that have plagued some users.

27-inch iMac Graphics Firmware Update 1.0 is available via Software Update or for download direct from Apple. The small 683KB file requires Mac OS X 10.6.2 or later.

Apple said the firmware update applies to the big-screen iMac's ATI Radeon HD 4670 and 4850 graphics cards. It reportedly addresses issues that may cause image interruption or display flickering.

Users are asked not to shut off the power on their iMac during the update. Loss of power could result in the iMac failing to start.

Earlier this month, as reports of flickering on the 27-inch model continued to grow, shipments of the hardware were delayed past Christmas for some customers. Apple responded by apologizing for the delay, which the company implied was due to high demand. However, Apple did not state whether the display issues played a role.

"The new iMac has been a huge hit and we are working hard to fulfill orders as quickly as possible," a company official said. "We apologize for any inconvenience or delay in delivery this may cause our customers."

An example of the screen distortion issue is included below:

Despite the reports of issues, the iMac was the best-selling desktop in the U.S. in the month of October. The new 21.5-inch model took the top spot, while the big-screen 27-inch version came in at No. 3 for the month.



64 Comments

roos24 17 Years · 170 comments

Apple better be more careful and spend more time/money on quality issues.

This is exactly the type of problems that people like to use when talking about "overpriced hardware" and it can be avoided!

solipsism 18 Years · 25701 comments

Who was it that was complaining about this issue and calling for no less than a complete recall of all 27” iMacs?

edit: Ah! http://forums.appleinsider.com/showp...0&postcount=37

rudder 15 Years · 1 comment

Never had any issues at all with my imac 27.
Everything works perfectly.

abster2core 18 Years · 2501 comments

Quote:
Originally Posted by Roos24

Apple better be more careful and spend more time/money on quality issues.

This is exactly the type of problems that people like to use when talking about "overpriced hardware" and it can be avoided!

"Shame on Apple?"

I would suggest that if one were to become the BEST OF THE BEST in what he/she invented, made, lead or managed, and done it with consistency, for more than a day, then perhaps one has the right to cast direction on someone.

In the meantime, perhaps one could take out the garbage once in their lifetime without being told.

Until then, 'shame' is not on Apple'

sflocal 16 Years · 6138 comments

Finishing up week two of using my i7 iMac. It's an incredible machine and I have had zero issues with it. Sucks that some units have had problems. I wonder what the percentage is of those 27" machines having that issue.