MacBook Air M1 (2020) – “Stage Light” Display Issue

Hello everyone,


I’m facing what appears to be the “Stage Light” or backlight flex cable issue on my MacBook Air M1 (2020). The bottom of my screen shows multiple bright light spots — like stage lights shining upward. I’ve attached a photo for reference.



Here’s what happened:


  • My display was officially replaced by Apple in December 2024 under apple care plus through an Apple-authorized repair center (booked via the official Apple website).
  • It worked perfectly for several months, but now in October 2025, the stage-light effect. (now my apple care plus is expired)
  • The MacBook has never been dropped or mishandled — always used carefully.


From what I’ve read, this might be a recurring issue caused by the display flex-cable design, similar to the older “Flexgate” problem. I’d like to know:


  1. Does Apple recognize this issue for MacBook Air M1 (2020) models?
  2. Is there any repair extension program or goodwill coverage for users?



If you’ve faced this issue, please comment or upvote so Apple can see how many users are affected. It might help draw attention to a possible problem that needs support.


Thank you all for reading and supporting — every response helps. 🙏


(Photo attached for clarity.)




[Edited by Moderator]


MacBook Air 13″, macOS 26.0

Posted on Oct 22, 2025 11:50 PM

Reply
3 replies

Oct 23, 2025 12:42 AM in response to Dinesh_aravindh

"MacBook Air M1 (2020) – “Stage Light” Display Issue: [...]If you’ve faced this issue, please comment or upvote so Apple can see how many users are affected. It might help draw attention to a possible problem that needs support.[...]"

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Thank you for the photo.


A Personal Experience on a Dying Screen:

It's a bit of a tale, but my 2017 MBP's screen went dead 11 times. Being this in such a rural area at the time, send-in service as the only way to transfer this to and from Apple. I performed what I was told was over 100 hours of troubleshooting over the phone, and being to respectful of a customer, Apple came to their senses, and granted me a free upgrade to a 3K Mac for no more than the price of AppleCare+. So, be patient, respectful, stay off of Apple's case while it is being worked on, and you might expect something to be done, at Apple's discretion.

MacBook Air M1 (2020) – “Stage Light” Display Issue

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