Many MacBook Pro users find the automatic start-up feature when opening the lid more inconvenient than helpful. If you are among those looking for a way to disable this feature, this guide will help you configure your MacBook Pro to suit your preferences.

Understanding the Auto-Start Feature

Before we dive into the steps to disable the auto-start feature, it’s helpful to understand why this feature exists. Apple designed it to make using your MacBook more seamless. As soon as you open the lid, the MacBook Pro is ready for use, reducing the need to press the power button manually. However, some users find this automatic start-up to be more of a nuisance than a convenience, especially in scenarios where they want to conserve battery or keep the machine off until necessary.

How to Disable Auto-Start on a MacBook Pro

Unfortunately, Apple doesn’t provide a straightforward option in System Preferences to disable the auto-start feature. However, you can use Terminal commands or adjust settings based on your specific needs.

1. Using Terminal to Disable Auto-Start

To disable the auto-start feature, you’ll need to use Terminal. Terminal is a powerful tool in macOS that allows you to interact with your system using text commands. Follow these steps:

  1. Open Terminal:
    • You can find Terminal in the Applications > Utilities folder, or you can use Spotlight by pressing Cmd + Space and typing “Terminal.”
  2. Enter the Command:
    • In the Terminal window, type the following command and press Enter: sudo nvram AutoBoot=%00
    • This command requires administrator access, so you may be prompted to enter your password.
  3. Restart Your MacBook Pro:
    • Once you’ve entered the command, restart your MacBook Pro to apply the changes. From now on, your MacBook Pro will not automatically start when you open the lid.

2. Reverting the Change

If you decide that you want to re-enable the auto-start feature, you can do so by resetting the NVRAM (non-volatile random-access memory), which stores certain settings for your Mac. Here’s how:

  1. Shut Down Your MacBook Pro.
  2. Reset the NVRAM:
    • Turn on your MacBook Pro and immediately press and hold Option + Command + P + R keys for about 20 seconds.
    • Your Mac will restart with the default NVRAM settings, including the auto-start feature.

3. Additional Considerations

It’s important to note that while the above method works on many MacBook models, some newer models might have different behavior due to changes in firmware or macOS versions. Always ensure your macOS is up to date before trying these commands.

Why You Might Want to Disable Auto-Start

Here are a few reasons why you might prefer to disable the auto-start feature on your MacBook Pro:

  • Battery Conservation: If you often open the lid without intending to use your MacBook, auto-start can lead to unnecessary battery drain.
  • Avoiding Accidental Start-ups: If your MacBook is in a bag or case and the lid gets slightly opened, it could start up unintentionally, which might lead to overheating or battery drain.
  • More Control: Some users simply prefer to have full control over when their devices power on.

Managing Sleep Settings on MacBook Pro

Prevent Waking from Sleep on Lid Open

You may also want to stop your MacBook from waking from sleep when you open the lid. Here’s how to adjust that setting:

  1. Open Terminal: Go to /Applications/Utilities/ or use the search function.
  2. Enter the Command: Type sudo pmset lidwake 0 to disable waking from sleep upon opening the lid.
  3. Re-enable if Needed: Type sudo pmset lidwake 1 to allow your MacBook to wake from sleep when you open the lid.

What if Commands Don’t Work?

Addressing Firmware Updates

Recent firmware updates may have disabled the ability to change these settings. If the above methods do not work:

  • Contact Apple Support: Discussing the issue directly with Apple might encourage future updates that re-enable these configurations.

Additional Configuration Options

Disabling the Startup Chime

To disable the startup chime:

  1. Open Terminal.
  2. Type sudo nvram BootAudio=%00 and enter your admin password when prompted.

To re-enable the chime, change the command to sudo nvram BootAudio=%01.

Resetting NVRAM/PRAM

If you need to reset your settings to default:

  1. Open Terminal.
  2. Type nvram -c and then restart your MacBook by selecting Restart from the Apple menu.

Conclusion

Disabling the auto-start feature on your MacBook Pro gives you more control over your device’s power management and can help prevent accidental start-ups. While Apple doesn’t offer a simple toggle in System Preferences, the Terminal command provided in this guide offers a reliable solution. Remember that you can always revert the change by resetting the NVRAM if needed.

For users who prefer an even simpler experience, third-party utilities or future macOS updates may provide more options for customizing this behavior. Keep an eye on updates from Apple for any new features related to this setting.

Avatar for Marlo Strydom

Marlo, the founder of Computer Info Bits, has over 20 years of IT expertise. He's passionate about technology and aims to demystify it. Since 2019, he's been writing articles covering essential computer tips to complex hardware discussions, helping readers better understand and use their technology. Marlo stays up-to-date with the latest tech developments through extensive research and interaction.