New Apple MacBook physically disconnects microphone when lid is closed

The latest Apple MacBooks feature a new T2 security chip that physically disconnects the laptop’s built-in microphone whenever the lid has been closed.

In an event at the Brooklyn Academy of Music in New York, the company announced the new security feature to add an extra layer of privacy for all new MacBook users which will prevent hackers and malicious applications from being able to eavesdrop on conversations when the lid is closed on the device.

The company confirmed there was no need to introduce the privacy feature on the webcam because “the field of view is completely obstructed with the lid closed”.