Apple Keyboard Update 1.2 (#2): A mixed bag

Earlier, we noted the release of Apple's Keyboard Software Update 1.2, provided with no explanation of what it fixes, but which, it was hoped, would improve compatibility with the Aluminum Apple keyboard.

Results of installing the update are starting to trickle in from our readers, and are decidedly a mixed bag. On the one hand, there are several reports that the trouble with F-keys, particularly F3 and F4, is fixed by this update. Reader Ed writes:

I could not use F-3 and 4 the way Apple said I could, until today's update.

Similarly, from Mark:

I just installed this update and it's fixed all my issues. Before I was having to hold down the FN key for Dashboard and Exposé. Now they work with a single key press.

And from Ray:

Before this release, function keys F3 (expose) and F4 (dashboard) will not work. That has been fixed after applying the 1.2 Update.

For another reader, the F3 and F4 keys are fixed, but the brightness keys are not:

Just updated the keyboard 1.2, and can report that the f3 and f4 buttons now work but no brightness.

Reader Pavel complains that the sound volume adjustment keys now don't work on his keyboard:

It disabled my Sound Volume keys. The only one that works is the mute. Attempted rebooting to no success.

Various readers report that holding down keys during the startup process still has no effect with this keyboard. For example, from reader Dan:

The update does not address the issue of start up commands when the aluminum keyboard is used with the first generation intel iMac. Holding down the 'c' key during start up still does not cause the iMac to default to the superdrive.

Similarly, from Chris:

All functions of the keyboard work as expected accept for the ability to use any key stroke start-up commands.

On the other hand, trouble with USB persists. Reader Stephen writes:

Still annoyed that the USB ports on the keyboard only function on the new iMacs to power peripherals - this really is a let down by Apple to its customers.

And Chris adds:

I tried running applejack and the application quits at test #2 (permissions repair) stating loss of USB power...

The poor compatibility and incorrect behavior of these attractive new keyboards is a disappointment. Please continue to keep us posted on your experiences if they differ from those cited above.

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