When it comes to ensuring ultrawide monitors work seamlessly with M4 Macs, firmware updates for the monitors themselves are not typically the primary solution. However, updating monitor firmware can sometimes improve compatibility and performance with newer hardware like the M4 Macs. Here are some key points to consider:
1. Monitor Firmware Updates: Some ultrawide monitors require firmware updates to ensure optimal performance with newer hardware. These updates can be found on the manufacturer's website and are usually installed using specific software tools provided by the manufacturer. While not directly addressing the M4 Mac compatibility issues, keeping the monitor firmware up-to-date can help resolve general connectivity and performance problems[5].
2. HiDPI Mode Issues: The main issue with M4 Macs and ultrawide monitors, particularly those with a 5K2K (5120 x 2160) resolution, is the inability to activate HiDPI mode. This mode is crucial for maintaining sharpness by scaling lower resolutions to the native resolution of the monitor. Users have reported that these monitors work fine with older Macs but fail to operate in HiDPI mode when connected to M4 Macs[1][2][3].
3. Third-Party Solutions: Some users have found temporary solutions using third-party apps like BetterDisplay, which allow manual control over display settings. However, these solutions often come with limitations, such as restricted frame rates or image quality[2][5].
4. Hardware and Connection Issues: Compatibility problems can also arise from using incorrect cables or adapters. Ultrawide monitors require high-bandwidth connections like Thunderbolt 4 or HDMI 2.1 to achieve full resolution and refresh rates. Using certified cables and adapters can help mitigate these issues[5].
5. Software Updates: Regularly updating macOS is crucial as Apple often releases patches to enhance hardware compatibility. While these updates might not specifically address ultrawide monitor issues, they can improve overall system performance and potentially resolve related problems[5].
In summary, while firmware updates for ultrawide monitors are beneficial for general performance, the primary issues with M4 Mac compatibility involve HiDPI mode support and hardware compatibility. Users may need to rely on third-party software or wait for Apple to address these issues through future updates.
Citations:[1] https://9to5mac.com/2024/12/30/m4-mac-ultrawide-monitor/
[2] https://www.notebookcheck.net/Users-of-M4-Macs-report-problems-with-ultra-wide-monitors.940237.0.html
[3] https://www.iphoneincanada.ca/2024/12/31/m4-mac-compatibility-issues-5k2k-ultrawide-monitors/
[4] https://www.macworld.com/article/675869/how-to-connect-two-or-more-external-displays-to-apple-silicon-m1-macs.html
[5] https://gigabeat.com/troubleshooting-ultrawide-5k-display-issues-on-m4-macs/
[6] https://discussions.apple.com/thread/255917873
[7] https://talk.tidbits.com/t/m4-mac-problems-with-5k-ultrawide-displays/29912
[8] https://www.theregister.com/2021/12/03/apple_m1_drivers/
[9] https://www.powerpage.org/some-users-complain-of-compatibility-issues-between-m4-macs-and-5k2k-ultrawide-displays/
[10] https://www.reddit.com/r/apple/comments/1hqgo9q/m4_mac_users_complain_about_compatibility_issues/
[11] https://mjtsai.com/blog/2025/01/03/m4-mac-issues-with-ultrawide-monitors/