14 DAY TRIAL // Alongside the SMC firmware updates addressing the accuracy of indicator lights, Apple has released a bunch of EFI firmware updates for all its Late 2008 notebooks – the 13-inch aluminum MacBook, the 15-inch MacBook Pro, and the revamped MacBook Air.
The Extensible Firmware Interface (EFI) is a specification that defines a software interface between the Mac OS and platform firmware. EFI is intended as a significantly improved replacement of the old legacy BIOS firmware interface, historically used by all IBM PC-compatible personal computers. Apple reveals on the Support section of its website that all three MacBook EFI firmware updates fix several issues to improve the stability of each notebook in part.
After the firmware is successfully applied to their Macs, users are encouraged to check the version of their Boot ROM. They can then confirm the version of the Boot ROM installed on their computers by using System Profiler. For the 13-inch notebook, for example, the Boot ROM should be MB51.0073.06B.
To complete the firmware update process, Apple asks users to follow the instructions in the updater application (/Applications/Utilities/MacBook Pro EFI Firmware Update.app), adding that the updater will launch automatically when the Installer closes. MacBook owners should take into consideration that they should not unplug, shutdown, or restart their computer while the update is taking place. Interrupting a firmware update can render the machine "unusable," the company states.
As such, whenever you are updating your MacBook's firmware, make sure that your AC adapter is plugged in. The Firmware Updater application will not run unless the computer is connected to AC power because of the possibility to interrupt the update process. Furthermore, if you are unsure whether your computer needs a particular update, simply download and open the update installer. It will alert you if the firmware update is already installed or not needed.
Download MacBook EFI Firmware Update 1.3
Download MacBook Pro EFI Firmware Update 1.6 Download MacBook Air EFI Firmware Update 1.1