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So apparently many macbook pro models have a digital audio output hidden inside their 3.5mm headphone jacks. Example.

I thought this was physically activated by the mini TOSLINK plug, but recently I installed Linux Mint (native boot) on my MBP and that red light came on and stay on.

So I guess it can be controlled by software.

Anyone know how to activate it in macosx? The only reason I want to turn it on is I think it looks cool.

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  • 1
    I could imagine you can activate digital out in soundflower
    – n1000
    Commented Feb 15, 2017 at 9:01
  • 1
    There was a common issue with hardware on MacBook Pros where the switch would fail and leave the light on permenantly. Do the headphones work at all in macOS?
    – unknowndomain
    Commented Feb 24, 2018 at 0:34

2 Answers 2

Reset to default
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Plug in a clear audio jack and you’ll have your red laser engaged and the sound muted. It’s controlled by firmware which is software, just harder to patch and mess with.

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-2

Blow into the audio port with canned air or similar to remove any dust collected there.

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    This may need some more explanation on the effect and why this solves the problem described in the question.
    – nohillside ♦
    Commented May 6, 2023 at 21:33

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