MacBook Air M3 clamshell wake issue after macOS 26.2

Hello,

I’m reporting a regression in clamshell wake behavior introduced in macOS 26.2.

Hardware

• MacBook Air (M3)
• External USB-C monitor with 98w Power Delivery (MSI MPG 346CQRF X24)
• External keyboard and mouse
• Lid closed (clamshell mode)

Previous behavior (before 26.2)

• With the lid closed, the Mac would reliably wake from sleep via keyboard/mouse input
• External display would power on normally
• No need to open the laptop lid

Current behavior (macOS 26.2)

• Mac does not wake from clamshell using keyboard or mouse input
• External display remains off
• The only way to wake the system is to physically open the laptop lid
• Once the lid is opened, the external display immediately turns on

Notes

• Power is present via USB-C PD
• “Allow accessories” is set to Always
• “Wake for network access” is set to Always
• This setup worked consistently prior to the update
• This appears to be related to changes in sleep/deep sleep or USB wake policy

This regression significantly affects desk workflows where the MacBook is intended to be used closed with an external monitor.

Please investigate whether macOS 26.2 changed USB-C / HID wake handling in clamshell mode, particularly for Apple-silicon MacBook Air models.

Thank you for your time.

Best regards