How To Fix apps not launching macOS Sequoia

To resolve issues with apps not launching properly on macOS Sequoia, follow this clear step-by-step guide designed to get your applications running smoothly again.

Step 1: Force Quit the Non-Responsive App

If the app seems frozen or won’t open, force quitting is often the quickest fix.

• Press Command + Option + Esc to open the Force Quit menu.
• Select the problematic app.
• Click Force Quit, then try reopening the app.
  This stops any hung processes that might be preventing the app from launching normally.

Step 2: Restart Your Mac

Restarting clears temporary glitches and memory issues that can block apps from opening.

• Click the Apple menu and select Restart.
• Wait for your Mac to reboot completely, then launch the app again.
  A fresh system start can resolve many software conflicts caused by macOS Sequoia updates.

Step 3: Update macOS Sequoia and Apps

Outdated system software or apps often struggle to work properly.

• Go to Apple menu > System Settings > General > Software Update.
• Install any available macOS updates to patch known bugs.
• Open the App Store, check for app updates, and install them.
  Developers frequently release updates to ensure compatibility with new macOS versions like Sequoia.

Step 4: Allow Apps from Unidentified Developers

Sometimes macOS blocks apps that haven’t been verified by Apple. To open them:

• Open System Settings and go to Privacy & Security.
• Scroll to Security and find the message about the blocked app.
• Click Open Anyway to allow the app to launch.
• If needed, adjust settings to allow apps from App Store and identified developers for smoother access.

Step 5: Reinstall the App

If apps still won’t launch, their installation might be corrupted.

• Delete the problematic app from your Applications folder.
• Re-download the latest version either from the App Store or official website.
• Install it fresh and launch again.

Step 6: Check Disk and Permissions

Corrupted system files or disk errors can disrupt app launches.

• Open Disk Utility (under Applications > Utilities).
• Select your startup disk and click First Aid to check and repair errors.
• If you use maintenance utilities like CleanMyMac, running them can optimize permissions and system health to improve stability.

By following these six straightforward steps, you can effectively troubleshoot and fix most issues causing apps not to launch on macOS Sequoia. Keeping your system and apps updated and adjusting security settings carefully ensures smoother performance and access to your essential software.