The good folks at iFixit are reporting that Apple has started using a new security method to keep DIYers out of their new iPhone, MacBook Air, or MacBook Pro. The evil diabolic device is a new screw type called the Pentalobe. The Pentalobe is similar to a Torx screw, which is commonly used in many electronic devices, but unlike the Torx, the Pentelobe, with its rounded corners, is very difficult to remove without the specifically-designed screwdriver that mates to the screw.
Courtesy of iFixit
The simple solution would be to add a Pentalobe screwdriver set to your tool kit, but unfortunately, you're not likely to find this specialty product at any local hardware store.
What makes it worse is that Apple has instructed its authorized repair centers to replace some existing Philips and Torx screws with Pentelobe equivalents when repairs are being performed.
Here at About: Macs, we embrace DIYers, and we love working on our Macs, performing our own repairs and replacing components when needed. We are not happy to see yet another futile attempt to lock DIYers out of the products they own.
My advice to anyone taking their Apple products in for repair is to just say no to Pentelobe. Remember, it's your product and Apple can't make changes to it without your consent. Let the repair center know not to replace any screws with Pentelobe parts.
For those who already have Pentelobe-infected devices, iFixit has started selling two Pentelobe screwdrivers that fit the sizes used in the new iPhone 4 and MacBook Air.
How utterly stupid. Did they not realize there would be people selling the special screwdrivers in a matter of weeks? They had to! But Microsoft is evil? Puh-lease.
Not one of Apple’s brightest ideas.
But, who said Microsoft is evil?? I don’t see that here or in the linked article.