If you're having problems with the USB ports on your 13-inch MacBook Pro (2020) and MacBook Air (2020), you're not alone.

MacRumors (via TechRadar) reports from the MacRumors forums, Reddit, and Apple Communities that the latest MacBooks are having trouble getting USB 2.0 accessories to work. Since these two models only have built-in USB-C ports (using the new USB 3.0 standard), those who need to connect adapters or USB-C hubs to connect other accessories may encounter this problem.

This problem seems to affect all kinds of USB accessories, including headphones, mice, keyboards, etc., causing peripherals to not connect, and the MacBook itself to slow down or freeze when connected.

One user reported that even when this occurs, HDMI connections through a hub to another monitor will work, so it is likely not a hub or accessory failure. Software fixes such as resets, account replacements, and installations have proven ineffective; even users who have had their MacBooks replaced by Apple have noticed that they still have problems with their new laptops.

Another user says that a USB hub of some sort can be used as a workaround. Perhaps due to internal software that switches the USB 2.0 connection to a virtual USB 3.0 connection before connecting to the laptop.

One Reddit user who tried to diagnose the problem believes that it is a software issue and is due to how the latest version of the software, MacOS Catalina, handles devices with older USB connectors.

If it is a software issue, this is great news because Apple can fix these problems with an update. If the problem is related to MacBook hardware, Apple may be forced to initiate an expensive recall program to replace the faulty components.