Macbook Air 2020 (M1) Longterm Storage

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Macbook Air 2020 (M1) Longterm Storage

I will be out of the country for 8-9 months and I cannot take my Macbook Air 2020 with me. I followed the steps Apple laid out by leaving the Macbook Air charged to only 50% before shutting down and storing it. According to Apple:

“If you plan to store your device for longer than six months, charge it to 50% every six months”

Forgive me but this has me confused. Is Apple saying I have to charge the Macbook Air to 50% every 6 months after I return home?! Do I not charge The Macbook Air to 100% when I return home in 8-9 months?

Also, Will leaving The Macbook Air stored past 6 months damage its battery?

I appreciate anyone who clears this up for me

MacBook Air (2020 or later)

Posted on Dec 14, 2021 1:00 PM

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Answer 1

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John Galt

Level 10

155,216 points

Dec 14, 2021 1:47 PM in response to Rexmol

Understandable. Apple's recommendations are intended to be ideal circumstances that no one can reasonably expect to attain.

No, you don't have to shut down your Mac the moment its battery goes from 51% to 50% then mark six months to the day you are expected to return to charge it again, then shut it down the moment it goes from 49% to 50%. That's as unreasonable as it is unnecessary.

Don't put it away fully charged, or fully discharged. If you were to draw it down to 60-70% or so you'll be fine.

Do I not charge The Macbook Air to 100% when I return home in 8-9 months?

Yes. When you return, simply resume your normal activity.

Also, Will leaving The Macbook Air stored past 6 months damage its battery?

No. I wouldn't be concerned at all about leaving it stored up to a year. It's just not ideal. Ideally, you would use a Mac just as you would any other rechargeable appliance: use it.

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Macbook Air 2020 (M1) Longterm Storage

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