Wednesday, January 28, 2009

Apple Pulls NVIDIA Graphics Update 2009 - Download

Apple Downloads section missing an item added just this week

For some strange reason, Apple has pulled one of the software updates posted earlier this week. Besides QuickTime Broadcaster 1.5.3, iDVD 7.0.3, and the update to the iLife Media Browser, Apple also posted an NVIDIA Graphics Update 2009 1.0 on the Downloads area of its web site.
Now, the download isn't listed anymore, while it is still available on Apple's servers.

Aimed at the new generation of MacBook Air, MacBook, and MacBook Pro, the update was said to improve playback of HD video running on systems equipped with NVIDIA GeForce 7300 GT or GeForce 9600M GT graphics. It wasn't very clear exactly which systems the update applied to, since the GeForce 7300 GT is available with 24-inch iMacs and as a PCI-x graphics card available for the original Mac Pro models. Perhaps this is the reason for the pulling – Apple staffers are updating the description.

Whatever the reason, the NVIDIA Graphics Update 2009 was described as follows (before it was pulled):

About NVIDIA Graphics Update 2009

This update improves cursor movement when using the Apple Mini DisplayPort to Dual-Link DVI adapter with the Mini DisplayPort enabled MacBook Air, MacBook and MacBook Pro.

It also improves playback of HD video running on systems with NVIDIA GeForce 7300 GT or GeForce 9600M graphics.

It was also revealed this week that Apple might have released the update after being faced with complaints from users who noticed video distortion when using the DisplayPort adapter with various Dell displays, but with Apple's own 30-inch Cinema Display as well.

As noted above, the 3.21MB update is still available for download on machines running Mac OS X 10.5.6. If you're not sure you need the update, better wait until Apple posts the download again, maybe with a more detailed tech note (as to who exactly needs it). If you believe the update can help you with DisplayPort issues, or at least can't do you any harm, you may download the update here.

NOTE: Neowin points out to an Apple Discussions user that claims the problem was worse after applying the update. The user was reportedly stuck with his external Samsung 22" monitor in mirror mode.