The screen (MBP 14 M1) remains dim after viewing an HDR video

Are you experiencing an issue where the screen of your MBP 14 M1 remains dim after watching an HDR video? Don't worry, you're not alone. Many users have reported this problem, and fortunately, there are some troubleshooting steps you can try to fix it.

1. Check Display Settings

The first thing you should do is check your display settings to ensure that HDR is enabled. Here's how:

1. Click on the Apple menu in the top-left corner of your screen and select "System Preferences".
2. Choose "Displays" from the preferences window.
3. Click on the "Display" tab.
4. Make sure the "High Dynamic Range" option is checked.

If the HDR option was already enabled, try disabling it and then re-enabling it to see if that resolves the issue.

2. Update macOS

Outdated software can sometimes cause compatibility issues. Make sure your macOS is up to date by following these steps:

1. Click on the Apple menu and select "System Preferences".
2. Choose "Software Update" from the preferences window.
3. If an update is available, click on the "Update Now" button.
4. Wait for the update to download and install.
5. Restart your MacBook Pro after the update is complete.

Updating your macOS may include bug fixes and improvements that could potentially resolve the dim screen issue.

3. Reset NVRAM/PRAM

Resetting the NVRAM (Non-Volatile Random Access Memory) or PRAM (Parameter Random Access Memory) can sometimes fix display-related problems. Follow these steps to reset the NVRAM/PRAM:

1. Shut down your MacBook Pro.
2. Press the power button and immediately hold down the Option, Command, P, and R keys simultaneously.
3. Keep holding the keys for about 20 seconds until you hear the startup sound for the second time.
4. Release the keys and let your MacBook Pro start up normally.

After resetting the NVRAM/PRAM, check if the screen brightness returns to normal when watching HDR videos.

4. Check Video Player Settings

Some video players have their own HDR settings that could override the system settings. If you're using a third-party video player, make sure to check its settings and ensure that HDR is enabled. Refer to the player's documentation or online support resources for instructions on how to access and modify these settings.

5. Test with Different HDR Content

It's possible that the HDR video you're watching is improperly encoded or not fully compatible with your MacBook Pro. Try playing different HDR videos from reputable sources to see if the issue persists. If the dim screen problem only occurs with specific videos, it may be a problem with those files rather than your MacBook Pro.

6. Contact Apple Support

If none of the above solutions work, it's recommended to contact Apple Support for further assistance. They have dedicated technical support staff who can help diagnose and resolve the issue. Visit the Apple Support website to find contact options such as phone support, live chat, or scheduling an appointment at an Apple Store.

By following these steps, you should be able to troubleshoot and resolve the issue of a dim screen on your MBP 14 M1 after watching an HDR video. Remember to always keep your software up to date and reach out to Apple Support if you need additional help.

References

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