[Edited by Moderator]
MacBook Air, macOS 15.5
As far as I can tell, looking closely at the area around the damage, there appears to be a faint outline of residue left over from some type of liquid that has evaporated ... so Apple's diagnosis appears to be correct.
The first picture is too out of focus when zoomed in to tell for sure. A tech who is physically able to view the laptop will have a much easier time confirming.
However, I highly suspect this is the result of liquid damage. You usually don't get connectors burn up like that without the help of liquid shorting it out. Keep in mind those cables are near the back vents so liquid entering the back vents would be very easy even if the liquid spill only hit the table near the laptop.
Sorry, we are not psychic.
If it's not covered under warranty or AppleCare+, the cause is irrelevant.
Apple is claiming Liquid damage, but the device was never exposed to any liquid, aslo there is no sign of liquid near the area.
We are fellow users and debating the issue with us is irrelevant. Apple has stated their case about that damage and they are the last word on this subject.
Help Identify if Short circuit due to Liquid or Manufacturing Defect
