How To Fix The MacBook Pink Screen Issue?

We’re all familiar with the term ‘blue screen of death’ that describes Windows PCs encountering a critical error and displaying a blue screen with white code. However, Mac users may encounter a similar issue known as the ‘pink screen of death.’ Instead of displaying code, the screen turns a pink hue, signaling a problem. In this article, we’ll delve into the reasons behind your MacBook’s pink screen and provide solutions to address this issue.

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What Is the Pink Screen Issue On MacBook?

The pink screen problem on your MacBook can be categorized into two distinct types, each with its underlying cause:

Flashing Pink Screen Leading to Restart (Kernel Panic):

Kernel panics are typically software-related issues. These occur due to problems within the software code that has access to the deepest parts of the operating system. Kernel panics can be sporadic but may also manifest as recurring issues until you address the underlying problem. In this case, your screen flashes pink and your Mac subsequently restarts.

Persistent Deep Pink Screen (Hardware Issue):

The other form of the pink screen issue is when the entire screen adopts a deep pink color and remains in this state. This is indicative of a hardware problem.

Identifying which pink screen issue you’re experiencing is crucial for effective troubleshooting and resolution.

Also Read: MacBook Air Not Charging? Here’s the Fix!

How To Fix The MacBook Pink Screen Of Death?

When your MacBook’s screen takes on a pink hue, it’s essential to determine the type of issue you’re facing. Here’s how to tackle each scenario:

For Hardware-Related Deep Pink Screen Issues:

If your entire screen remains a deep pink color, this is indicative of a hardware problem. In such cases, the recommended course of action is to bring your Mac to an Authorized Service Center or the Genius Bar for professional repair. Hardware faults are not fixable by end-users.

For Kernel Panic-Induced Pink Screen and Restarts:

When you experience a flashing pink screen that leads to Mac restarts, it’s often a kernel panic issue. The good news is that you can resolve this problem on your own. To do so, follow the steps outlined below in sequence.

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Fix 1: Update macOS

Updating macOS is often the initial step in resolving recurring issues on your Mac. The problem you’re encountering could potentially be a bug that has already been addressed in a recent OS update. Alternatively, it might be related to compatibility issues with other software, which could also be resolved through an update. To update macOS, follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Click on the Apple menu and select “System Preferences.”

Step 2: Next, choose “General,” and click “Software Update.”

Step 3: Your Mac will initiate a check for available updates. Allow it to complete this process.

Step 4: If an update is found, follow the on-screen instructions to install it promptly.

This routine check for updates can help ensure your Mac is running the latest and most stable version of macOS, potentially resolving the issue you’re facing.

Also Read: MacBook Pro Screen Flickering: What Causes It and How to Fix It

Fix 2: Update Apps

If the kernel panic issue appears to be tied to a specific application or occurs when you’re using a particular software, consider checking for updates related to that application. Here’s how you can do it:

Step 1: If the problematic application was downloaded from the App Store, access the App Store app on your MacBook.

Step 2: Inside the App Store, navigate to the “Updates” section to see if updates are available.

Step 3: If there is an update listed for the specific application, simply click on the “Update” button to initiate the update process.

If you’ve downloaded the application from the developer’s website and suspect it might be causing the issue, follow these steps to check for updates:

Step 1: Open the application in question.

Step 2: Click on the application’s name in the menu bar (usually found in the top-left corner).

Step 3: From the dropdown menu, select “Check for Updates.”

Step 4: Wait for the application to check for updates, and if an update is available, follow the provided instructions to install it.

Also Read: Your MacBook Pro Is Not Charging? Here Is How To Fix!

Fix 3: Reboot In Safe Mode

Restarting your Mac in Safe Mode is a troubleshooting technique that launches your Mac with only the essential components required for startup. During this process, it skips loading login items, non-essential extensions, and third-party fonts. Additionally, it performs disk checks and clears cache files. Often, this simple step can resolve various issues.

Apple Silicon MacBooks –

Step 1: Turn Off Your MacBook.

Step 2: Press and hold the Power Key.

Step 3: When the Startup Options appear, you may release the power key.

Step 4: Select Options.

Step 5: Now choose the Startup disk, hold the Shift key on your keyboard, and select the “Continue in Safe Mode” option.

Step 6: Finally, release the shift key and log in to your system.

Intel MacBooks –

Step 1: Shut down your Mac.

Step 2: Power it on by pressing the power button while holding down the Shift key.

Step 3: Release the Shift key when the login window appears.

Step 4: Login, and if prompted to do so, log in again.

Step 5: You should notice ‘Safe mode’ displayed in the upper corner of the login window.

After restarting in Safe Mode and using your Mac without encountering the pink screen issue, you can safely reboot it in normal mode. If the pink screen problem reappears during regular use, it indicates that a non-essential extension or login item is likely responsible for the issue. In such a scenario, identifying and addressing the problematic item is essential. To begin the troubleshooting process, it’s advisable to start by disabling Login Items.

Step 1: Navigate to the Apple menu, select “System Settings”, and then click on “General.”

Step 2: In the “General” settings, choose “Login Items.”

Step 3: For each Login Item listed, select it one by one and click the ‘-‘ (minus) button to remove them.

Step 4: Additionally, ensure that all items under “Allow in Background” are turned off.

If the pink screen issue does not reoccur while using your Mac, you can gradually reintroduce the Login Items one at a time and assess your Mac’s performance afterwards. Similarly, you can follow this process for items under “Allow in Background.” When the pink screen problem resurfaces, you’ll have identified the problematic element.

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Fix 4: Reinstall macOS

If all other troubleshooting methods fail to resolve the pink screen issue, your last resort is to consider reinstalling macOS. While this process typically preserves your data, it’s a good practice to back up your Mac using Time Machine before proceeding, just to be safe. To reinstall macOS, follow these steps:

For Apple Silicon Macs –

Step 1: Shut down your Mac.

Step 2: Power it On and hold down the power button until you see startup options.

Step 3: Click “Options,” and you will access macOS Utilities. Choose  “Reinstall macOS” and follow the on-screen instructions.

For Intel-based Macs –

Step 1: Turn Off your Mac.

Step 2: Turn it On and immediately press and hold Command-R until you see macOS Utilities.

Step 3: Once you’re in macOS Utilities, select “Reinstall macOS” and follow the on-screen instructions.

After completing the reinstallation, you can restore your data from your Time Machine backup if necessary.

Bonus Tip: Use Cleanup My System To Optimize Your Mac

Is your Mac experiencing a noticeable slowdown? Cleanup My System, developed by Systweak Software, offers an effective solution to boost your Mac’s performance. This professional tune-up tool simplifies the process of finding and eliminating clutter, unwanted email attachments, large and outdated files, and more in just a single click. Here are key features of Cleanup My System:

One Click Care: Streamline Mac Optimization with a Single Click

Startup Manager: Enhance Mac’s Boot Time

Uninstall Manager: Smart App Removal

Large & Old Files: Free Up Disk Space

Disk Analyzer: Analyze and Manage Disk Space

Privacy Protector: Safeguard Your Web Data Privacy

Identity Protector: Secure Your Personal Information

Cleanup My System is a versatile tool designed to enhance your Mac’s performance and security by efficiently managing system clutter and safeguarding your privacy.

Also Read: Is Your MacBook Pro Overheating? Here Are Ways To Fix It!

The Final Word On How To Fix The MacBook Pink Screen Issue?

It can be rather frightening if your MacBook screen goes pink, especially if it hasn’t happened before. There are several possible explanations for why it may have occurred. One is that your Mac may have a hardware issue, in which case you should bring it to a Genius Bar or Authorized Service Center. In the event of a kernel panic, on the other hand, you can resolve the issue on your own. To find and fix the reason for the pink screen, follow the aforementioned methods and your issue will be soon resolved. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.