8 Common macOS Sonoma issues and fixes

Apple’s latest operating system, macOS 14 Sonoma, has launched on  Sep. 26th, and it brings with it a bunch of great new features for your Mac. But upgrading your Apple computer could lead to problems, and while this won’t happen to everyone, it can be frustrating when issues arise.

Fortunately, there’s help at hand. We’ve compiled a list of the most prevalent macOS Sonoma issues, gathered from the Apple community’s feedback, along with their corresponding solutions.Just follow these tips and they could help you out of a tricky spot.

Problem 1: macOS Sonoma Won’t Download

Downloading macOS Sonoma can be a hefty task due to the large installer file size. If you encounter download issues, follow these steps:

Compatibility Check: Ensure your Mac is compatible with macOS Sonoma by referring to Apple’s official list of compatible Macs on their website.

Based on the description on Apple official site, the following machines will support macOS Sonoma.

  • iMac from 2019 and later
  • Mac Pro from 2019 and later
  • iMac Pro from 2017
  • Mac Studio from 2022 and later
  • MacBook Air from 2018 and later
  • Mac mini from 2018 and later
  • MacBook Pro from 2018 and later

Free up Storage Space: Make sure your Mac has at least 25GB of free space, as the installer requires around 13GB.

Internet Connection: Ensure your Mac is connected to the internet, as a stable connection is necessary for downloading the installer.

Problem 2: Time Machine Backup Fails Under Sonoma

Before upgrading your macOS, it is essential to back up your system in case of any problems. However, many users have reported receiving the following error message when attempting to make a Time Machine backup:

Backup Not Completed | Some of the files on your Mac cannot be backed up until Cloud Files syncing has completed.

If you experience this issue, try the following steps:

  1. Restart your Mac.
  2. Log out of iCloud and log back in.
  3. Check the iCloud Drive in Finder to make sure that all files are synchronized.
  4. If iCloud is still uploading or downloading files, wait until the synchronization process is complete.

Note: It can take more than a day for iCloud to fully synchronize. Please be patient.

Problem 3: macOS Sonoma Installation Failed

If the installation fails, try using safe mode:

Safe Mode: For Apple silicon Macs, turn off your Mac, hold the power button until “Loading startup options” appears, select your main Mac volume, and choose “Continue in Safe Mode.” For Intel Macs, restart and hold the Shift key until the login window appears.

Once in safe mode, attempt to install macOS Sonoma again.

Problem 4: macOS Slows Down After Upgrade

Slow performance after upgrading is not uncommon due to increased system demands. Here are some solutions:

Mac Maintenance Tasks: Perform essential maintenance tasks like running maintenance scripts, clearing RAM, and repairing disk permissions. You can use tools like Cleaner One Pro for these tasks.

Cleaner One Pro

Download Cleaner One Pro

Check Storage: Ensure you have sufficient free disk space by removing unused apps and files and storing large files externally or using cloud storage.

Problem 5: Battery Drains Quickly

After upgrading to macOS Sonoma, your battery may drain faster initially due to reindexing. Wait for up to a week for this process to complete.

macOS battery drain fast

If the issue persists:

Activity Monitor: Check Activity Monitor to identify resource-intensive apps. Close unnecessary apps and processes.

Login Items: Disable unnecessary login items from System Settings to improve battery life.

Battery Health: If your battery is old and degrading, consider replacing it at an Apple Store or authorized repair shop.

Problem 6: Wi-Fi Issues

Wi-Fi problems can be frustrating but can often be resolved with these steps:

  • Router Check: Ensure your router is functioning correctly and follow your internet provider’s instructions if necessary.
  • Toggle Wi-Fi: Turn Wi-Fi off and on in System Settings.
  • Restart Mac: Try restarting your Mac.
  • Wi-Fi Recommendations: Follow the Wi-Fi Recommendations in the menu bar.
  • Wireless Diagnostics: Open Wireless Diagnostics by holding Option and clicking the Wi-Fi icon to troubleshoot further.

Problem 7: Bluetooth Connectivity Problems

Bluetooth issues can affect various aspects of your Mac. Here’s how to address them:

Disable and Enable Bluetooth: In System Settings, disable and re-enable Bluetooth.

Restart Mac: Try restarting your Mac.

Re-pair Devices: For previously connected but problematic devices, forget the device and re-pair it.

Problem 8: Apps Crashing

If certain apps crash on macOS Sonoma, consider these steps:

Check for Updates: Check if the app has updates. Look for a “Check for updates” option in the app’s menu or settings.

Reinstall App: If updates don’t help, uninstall and reinstall the problematic app.

App Developer Guidance: Visit the app developer’s website for guidance or workarounds if they are aware of the issue.

By following these solutions, you can address common macOS Sonoma problems and enjoy a smoother experience with your Mac.

7 Comments

  1. judith a hernandez October 6, 2023
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