Solution to connect MacBook 12-inch (Thunderbolt-3) to Apple Thunderbolt-2 Cinema Display? (Apple adapter Thunderbolt-3 to Thunderbolt 2 doesn’t work).

Apple does not supply that particular connector. You must do your homework and find the proper cable and purchase it from Amazon. Your display does not have thunderbolt anything, it has Mini DisplayPort.

This is from apple support doc:

Mini DisplayPort display

If you're using a Mini DisplayPort cable with a Mini DisplayPort display, use a compatible third-party USB-C to Mini DisplayPort adapter. Check with the maker of the adapter for compatibility with your Mac and display model.

Mini DisplayPort

Mini DisplayPort is not the same as Thunderbolt or Thunderbolt 2 . They have the same shape, but use different symbols on the cable and port.

A compatible third-party USB-C to Mini DisplayPort adapter is the correct solution for the Apple LED Cinema Display.

The monitor I have is the Apple Thunderbolt Display,

That monitor will only work with a Mac that has Thunderbolt ports or capability. That means it won't work with a 12" Retina MacBook. No amount of adapters can make that happen.

If you bought the MacBook in the last 14 days, you can return it for a MacBook Pro or MacBook Air. But otherwise, it pays to read the specifications before purchasing.

I have a similar problem. I want to connect a new MacBook to a Thunderbolt 2 display (we have a few of them at work and also at home work stations). It would require the MacBook to run the display at the same time as it is connected to a power supply. That seems not possible with the only adapter for Thunderbolt occupying the only input on the macbook.

Is there any indication that Apple will develop any solution to this problem or is there indications that The new MacBook should rather be looked upon as a standalone and not fit for offices?

Is there any indication that Apple will develop any solution to this problem or is there indications that The new MacBook should rather be looked upon as a standalone and not fit for offices?

1. Terms of use for this forum prohibits speculation about future products.

2. All of the 12" Retina MacBooks, 2015, 2016, and 2017 lack Thunderbolt capability. Draw your own conclusions.

3. No combination of external adapters can make a device that is bandwidth limited to 5 Gbps (the 12" MacBook) become Thunderbolt capable.

Solution to connect MacBook 12-inch (Thunderbolt-3)

12" Retina MacBooks do not have USB-C Thunderbolt capability. Only new MacBook Pros have that capability.