Today Apple released macOS Big Sur Beta 11.1 RC (20C69) to Developers
UPDATE 12/14/20 – macOS Big Sur 11.1 final is live! I just posted a new article that goes over all of the changes and new information that you need to know!
MacOS Big Sur 11.1 RC or Release Candidate was released on December 10th, 2020. We can expect the final version of 11.1 will be released very soon. The release comes one week after Big Sur 11.1 Beta 2. The Release Candidate brings support for AirPods Max, Apple’s new over-ear headphones. New features were also added to Apple TV, Apple News, App Store, iPhone Apps on M1 Macs, Photos and Safari.
Release date = Monday December 14th (Possible due to Fitness+ launching that day and requiring the latest versions)
Today Apple released macOS Big Sur Beta 11.1 Beta 2 (20C5061b) to Developers
MacOS Big Sur 11.1 Beta was released on December 3rd, 2020. The release comes about two weeks after Big Sur 11.1 Beta 1.
NOTE: The 2013-14 13″ MacBook Pro BoardID (Mac-189A3D4F975D5FFC) is not in 11.1 Beta 2.This means that Apple could be still working on a fix for this issue. You can read more about it in the link below.
2020-006 Security Update for Mojave & High Sierra + Safari 14.0.1
Security Updates 2020-006 for macOS Mojave 10.14 (18G6042), High Sierra 10.13 (17G14042) & Safari 14.0.1 are now Available.
With the release of macOS Big Sur, Apple also released Security Updates for both macOS Mojave and High Sierra. Catalina was issued a 10.15.7 Supplemental Update to address the same security issues in 2020-006.
NOTE: Apologies for the tardiness of this article, Big Sur and Apple Silicon really took my attention away. I didn’t forget about everyone who asked me when my Security Update article would come out. I will always test the update out first so you don’t have to deal with issues.
You can read more about the 10.15.7 Supplemental update below.
Big Sur 11.0.1 (20B50) Released to block install for 2013-2014 13-inch MacBook Pro Users.
Big Sur 11.0.1 (20B50) was released to block 2013 & 2014 13″ MBPro’s from installing the OS. This move looks to be related to the Big Sur install problems with these models.
UPDATE 12/14/20 – Apple has added the Mac-189A3D4F975D5FFC BoardID back to the newly released macOS Big Sur 11.1 Full installer! It looks like Apple has found and fixed the issue with the installer that was causing problems! This means that you can now download, install and reinstall Big Sur 11.1 on your 2013-14 13″ MacBook Pro again.
UPDATE 11/25/20 – If you attempt to install Big Sur on your 13″ 2013-2014 MBPro, you might get this error.
Installation of macOS could not continue. installation requires downloading important content. That content can’t be downloaded at this time. Try again later.
If you are wondering about the Big Sur Installer issue for the 2013 & 2014 13″ MacBook Pro users, I wrote about the situation earlier this week.
To review, if you have a 2013 or 2014 13″ MacBook Pro and attempted to install macOS Big Sur, it was possible that the installer could brick your Mac.
When I say “brick” I mean that it boots to a black screen and is 100% non responsive. You can’t boot to recovery, USB installers, reset the pram or SMC.
The only option for users is to bring it in for repair. The reports say that Apple is saying that the logic board needs to be replaced at a price over 500$. Even worse some are being told it’s a vintage product and they can’t parts. This is FALSE, Apple will keep stock of parts up to 7 years.
Vintage products are those that have not been sold for more than 5 and less than 7 years ago. Mac, iPhone, iPad, iPod, and Apple TV vintage products continue to receive hardware service from Apple service providers, including Apple Retail Stores, subject to availability of inventory, or as required by law.Apple.com – https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201624
https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201624
Hopefully Apple will cover the cost of the repair for free.
The solution for now? Release a new macOS Big Sur Installer that removes both models from the Big Sur compatibility list.
The link below shows the list of Big Sur compatible Macs
If you can’t install macOS Big Sur on certain 13-inch MacBook Pro computers from 2013 and 2014. Follow these steps if you can’t install macOS Big Sur on a MacBook Pro (Retina, 13-inch, Late 2013) or MacBook Pro (Retina, 13-inch, Mid 2014). When you install macOS Big Sur on these Mac models, the installer might say that the update cannot be installed on this computer, or your Mac might start up to a blank screen or circle with a line through it.
Apple.com
The most important part of this article is this line
“or your Mac might start up to a blank screen“
This is exactly what will happen to some users if they install macOS Big Sur on their 2013 or 2014 13″ MacBook Pro.
Let’s look at the other parts of the note.
“the installer might say that the update cannot be installed on this computer“
This is because both models have been removed from the new Big Sur installer compatibility list.
“or your Mac might start up to a blank screen or circle with a line through it“
This might happen if you make a new USB installer of Big Sur 11.0.1 (20B50) and attempt to boot to it.
Removed from the Big Sur Compatible List?
The macOS installer has a file inside called the distribution file. For this release it’s called 001-83532.English.dist.
Compatible Macs for install are listed in this file as BoardID for older devices and DeviceIDs for newer models. The boardID we are looking for is
Mac-189A3D4F975D5FFC
This BoardID is for the MacBookPro11,1 or the 2013 & 2014 13″ MacBook Pro.
I keep a database of all Mac BoardID and DevicesIDs here
You can see the list of supportedBoardIDs – Mac-189A3D4F975D5FFC was removed from 11.0.1 (20B50)
This means that (for now anyway) you will not be able to install macOS Big Sur on your 2013 or 2014 13″ MacBook Pro.
Will Apple fix this issue and add them back later?
Unknown at this time. It’s possible that Apple will fix issue the Big Sur installer is causing to these models. They could then add the models back to the compatibility list later.
How to Restore BridgeOS on a 2018+ T2 Mac using Apple Configurator 2. How to Boot your Mac into DFU Mode
With Apple Silicon Macs, you can install macOS just like you can with iOS! I will show you how to boot your Apple Silicon Mac into DFU Mode so you can Restore macOS.
UPDATED 06/04/21
This article will go over how to restore macOS on your new Apple Silicon Mac. Your first line of defense for installing macOS on Apple Silicon should be macOS Recovery. But if for some reason you are having problems with that you can boot your Apple Silicon Mac with a Big Sur USB installer drive. I wrote an article covering all the changes to macOS Recovery here.
Order of that you should follow for reinstalling macOS on Apple Silicon.
1. macOS Recovery – Hold down the power button to enter the Boot Picker Menu (downloads macOS Big Sur over the internet 1-2 hours)
2. System Recovery – (Separate hidden partition – Will boot automatically if macOS Recovery is erased or damaged)
3. macOS Big Sur USB Installer Drive – External boot for macOS Installers is enabled by default on Apple Silicon – (Installs from USB 30-40 Min)
4. Apple Configurator 2 REVIVE option – This option will reinstall macOS Recovery if erased or damaged (retains user data on the hard drive)
5.Apple Configurator 2 RESTORE option – This option will Reinstall macOS Recovery, ERASE your hard drive and reinstall macOS (Fast install! 10 min)
Use macOS Recovery on a Apple Silicon M1Mac
Keep in mind, just like last time, some of the instructions for booting your Apple Silicon Mac are confusing. If you thought booting to DFU mode was a little difficult on T2 Macs… wait until you try on Apple Silicon. For one thing the ports used are the exact opposite of what was used on T2 Macs! Plus the process to get the Mac into DFU mode has changed! That’s why I’m writing this article, to better explain the instructions.
Mr. Macintosh video – how to boot your Apple Silicon Mac into DFU mode + reinstall macOS
Boot your M1 Mac Mini to DFU mode + Reinstall macOS Big Sur with Apple Configurator 2! UPDATED
Mr. Macintosh Deep Dive Tutorial on how to Restore macOS + Boot to DFU mode
Install macOS Big Sur on Multiple Macs using Apple Configurator 2!
Table of Contents
1. Updates
2. List of Apple Silicon Compatible Macs
3. Setup and Cable Requirements before you begin
4. Download Apple Configurator 2 app
5. How to Boot your Apple Silicon Mac into DFU Mode
6. Which Firmware version is your Mac on?
7. Instructions for the M1 13″ MacBook Pro & Air (2020)
8. Instructions for the M1 Mac Mini (2020)
9. Instructions for the M1 24″ iMac (2021)
10. You made it! Apple Configurator 2 Steps
11. Download macOS ISPW file
12. Begin Apple Silicon macOS Revive / Restore
13. Finishing Up
14. Can I Downgrade from an older version of macOS via IPSW Files?
UPDATE 4/13/21 – New DEEP DIVE video on using Apple Configurator 2 to reinstall macOS on multiple M1 Macs.
UPDATE 3/17/21 – I’ve added a new video that shows you how to use Apple configurator 2 to install macOS on multiple M1 Macs.
UPDATE 1/14/21 – Apple has released Apple Configurator 2 Version 2.13.3, be sure to update. I’ve also added a new Apple Silicon Mac Mini M1 Video above.
UPDATE 11/18/20 –Apple has released Apple Configurator 2 Version 2.13.2! Make sure you update. If you are still running 2.13.1 or below you will get an error when you click the restore button.
UPDATE 11/17/20 –Added a new section #6 to explain the problem booting to DFU mode if your Apple Silicon Mac is on it’s factory firmware of 6723.41.11
This is a list of Apple Silicon Macs that this process is compatible with.
1. 2020 M1 13″ MacBook Pro
2. 2020 M1 MacBook Air
3. 2020 M1 Mac Mini
4. 2021 M1 24″ iMac
3. Setup and Cable Requirements before you begin.
You will need to meet the following requirements –
(The Host Mac will do the work and the Target Mac is the Mac you need to Restore)
1. USB-C Mac as the Host Machine.
2. The Host Mac must have at least macOS 10.15.6 and Apple Configurator 2.13.1 or newer installed.
3. Internet access on the Host Mac – “You may need to configure your web proxy or firewall ports to allow all network traffic from Apple”
4. USB-C to USB-C Cable – The white Apple USB-C Charge will work fine. (USB-C Cable MUST Support Power & Data). Apple notes that a Thunderbolt 3 to Thunderbolt 3 cable is not supported but I’ve tested it and it works fine.
5. The Host Mac can have the cable plugged in anywhere.
6. The Target Mac MUST have the USB-C Cable Plugged in to the Left Hand side USB-C port. For Laptops the port closest to the back of the Mac or screen) For the Mac Mini it’s the port closest to the ethernet port. (BOTH LOCATIONS ARE OPPOSITE of the T2 Mac BridgeOS restore locations!)
If you don’t meet all the prerequisites booting to DFU Mode or Upgrading macOS Firmware might fail.
4. Download Apple Configurator 2
Download Apple Configurator 2 app. Version 2.13.1 or higher is required.
If you do not have Apple Configurator 2, you can download it now from the Mac App Store with this link.
5. How to Boot your Apple Silicon Mac into DFU Mode
With all the startup keyboard commands you can issue a Mac, booting into DFU Mode should be pretty simple right?
NOPE! (x2 this time for Apple Silicon!)
You have to follow a very particular sequence to get this to work. I have attempted to find the exact way to get this to work every time. Even then sometimes the system will refuse to Boot into DFU mode.
Apple’s Instructions
You can find Apple’s instructions for booting into DFU mode here.
If these instructions do not work fo you continue below.
Press the power button.
While holding down the power button, at the same time press all three of the following keys for about 10 seconds:
The right Shift key
The left Option key
The left Control key
After 10 seconds, immediately release the three keys but continue to hold down the power button until it appears in Apple Configurator 2.Note: You won’t see any screen activity from the Apple notebook computer.
Apple’s instructions for booting your Apple Silicon MacBook Pro & Air into DFU mode. Image: Apple Inc
6. Which Firmware version is your Mac on?
Did you update your Mac to Big Sur 11.0.1 from 11.0 when it arrived? If you didnt the firmware will be
6723.41.11
To find the firmware version click the Apple icon > About this Mac > System Report.
Look for System Firmware Version.
If you are on Big Sur 11.0 and firmware version 6723.41.11 you will need to boot to the macOS Recovery selection screen first before attempting to boot into DFU mode.
If you updated your Mac to 11.0.1 and are running Firmware Version 6723.50.2 or newer you can follow the normal instructions. You can boot to DFU mode from power off instead of booting to the macOS recovery selection screen first.
7. My Instructions for the M1 13″ MacBook Pro & MacBook Air
It has proven difficult to get an Apple Silicon Mac into DFU mode. You could try Apple’s instructions above multiple times and STILL not get into DFU mode.
Once you have meet all of the pre requisites above, follow the instructions below to should get you into DFU Mode every time.
1. The Target Mac must be OFF to begin.
2.Hold down the Power button,RightShift, Left Control and Left Option keys for 10 Seconds (count 1 one thousand) then let go of every key except for Power . Keep holding down the power button for an additional 8 seconds until you get to 18 seconds total. If you count more than 20 seconds and don’t see the DFU icon, you will have to try the process again.
3. When the Target Mac is booted into DFU mode correctly, the host will show a big DFU icon in Apple Configurator 2.
4. After you see the DFU picture pop up on the AC2 Host Mac you can let go of the Power Button.
macOS recovery screen you can now start the DFU mode keyboard command process
Visual instructions for booting your Apple SIlicon Mac into DFU Mode
8. Instructions for the M1 Mac Mini (2020)
The Mac Mini 2020 instructions are to use the USB-C port is closest to the Ethernet port.
How to boot a M1 Mac Mini 2020 into DFU mode to restore macOS – Image: Apple Inc
1. Disconnect the power cord from the Mac Mini.
2. Plug USB-C/Thunderbolt cable into the USB-C port next to the ethernet port.
3. Plug the other end into the Host Mac.
4. While holding down the power button, connect the Mac Mini to power and continue to hold the power button for about 3-5 seconds
5. You should now see the DFU logo on the Host Mac.
9. Instructions for the M1 2021 24″ iMac
The 24″ M1 iMac (2021) instructions are to use the USB-C port is closest to the magnetic power port. The instructions are the same for both the 2 and 4 port version.
How to boot a M1 iMac 2021 into DFU 2 or 4 port version. Use the USB-C port closest to the magnetic power plug. – Image: Apple Inc
1. Disconnect the magnetic power cord from the iMac.
2. Plug USB-C cable into the USB-C port next to the power port.
3. Plug the other end into the Host Mac.
4. While holding down the power button, connect the iMac magnetic power plug continue to hold the power button for about 3-5 seconds
5. You should now see the DFU logo on the Host Mac.
10. Instructions for the M1 2021 24″ iMac
11. Instructions for the M1 2021 14″ and 16″ MacBook Pro
12. Instructions for the M1 2022 Mac Studio
10. You made it! Apple Configurator 2 Steps
The hard part is now over. Now we can restore macOS on the Target Mac. When you first open Apple Configurator 2 the screen will look like this.
This is what you will see if the Mac is NOT booted to DFU mode.
This is what you will see when the MacBook is connected correctly with your USB-C cable and booted to the recovery selection screen.
Once your Mac is booted to DFU mode, you will see this screen on Apple Configurator 2. You are now ready for the next step.
When you see a big DFU icon when your Mac is properly booted into DFU Mode.
11. Download macOS ISPW file (Optional)
Apple Configurator 2 version 2.13.2 will automatically download needed IPSW file just like it can for iOS. Let’s say that you want to download the IPSW so you can restore multiple times for testing, you can get it from my database below.
Once you’ve downloaded the macOS IPSW file, you are ready for Restore.
12. Begin Apple Silicon macOS Revive / Restore
1. Revive Option
The revive option will ONLY reinstall macOS Recovery. Go to step 2 for Restore.
You are now ready to restore either macOS Recovery with revive by Clicking Actions > Advanced > Revive Device.
Right Click on the DFU icon – Select Advanced > Revive Device
Revive will reinstall macOS Recovery on your Apple Silicon Mac. This option retains user data.
2. Restore Option.
Restore will Reinstall macOS Recovery, ERASE your SSD hard drive and reinstall macOS.
2. Restore option – Reinstall macOS Recovery, ERASE your SSD hard drive and reinstall macOS.
You will now see a warning message. Do you want restore “MacBook Pro” to it’s Factory settings and latest firmware version?
Restore warning you the Restore process will erase your data and reinstall macOS
Click the Restore Button to begin. Step one will download the latest macOS IPSW Firmware file directly from Apple.
You can also drag the macOS IPSW File over to the DFU icon to begin the restore.
macOS Big Sur 11.0.1 IPSW Restore File – Drag this file over to the DFU logo to begin the restore.
After dragging the macOS 11 IPSW File over to the DFU logo you will get this pop up. You can select Restore to erase your drive and reinstall macOS. The process will only take about 15 minutes.
Ready to restore macOS, click Restore to begin.
Reinstalling macOS Big Sur from the IPSW file.
Step 2. Unzipping macOS
Step 2. Unzipping
Step 3. Installing macOS
Step 3. Installing BridgeOS
13. Finishing Up
If you would like to see more information you can click View and see a new activity window.
Apple Configurator 2 Activity window.
The entire process will only take a while. Most of the time is spent downloading the huge 13GB macOS Big Sur IPSW File. This is why it’s nice to keep the IPSW on an external hard drive or something. When you drag the IPSW File over to Apple Configuator 2, the restore will be super quick! Normally it only takes about 10 min!
When complete the Mac will automatically Boot up.
14. Can I Downgrade from an older version of macOS via IPSW Files?
The answer is YES, follow the link below for an explanation.
But only if the IPSW file is still signed by Apple. If Apple stops signing the IPSW file you will need to change the Boot Security to allow this. (Keep in mind Apple has not stopped signing any macOS installers yet, so we will see.)
15. Thanks
Hat tip goes out to macrumors forum user Nrwrit3r for the macOS Recovery menu workaround for older firmware!
NOTE 11/17/20! UNTIL I’M ABLE TO GATHER APPLE SILICON DATA I WILL LEAVE THE T2 BRIDGEOS TROUBLESHOOTING SECTION HERE.
I can’t get my Mac to boot into DFU mode. This is the toughest part of the whole process as I mentioned above. Keep trying the steps I listed above. Sometimes it takes multiple attempts to get his to work.
You can use System Information to see if the USB-C port lists your Mac in DFU Mode.
System Information showing a Mac plugged in booted to DFU Mode.
BridgeOS Restore Error 79- The OS Cannot be restored on this device. The Operation couldn’t be completed. (AMRestoreErrorDomain error 79 – Failed to handle message type StatusMsg) [AMRestoreErrorDomain – 0x4F (79)] – If you get this error it means that the BridgeOS update has failed and is unable to complete. The system will be unable to boot. When powered on the screen will be black. The Mac will have to be brought to an Apple Store for Service.
BridgeOS Restore Error – The OS Cannot be restored on this device. The Operation couldn’t be completed.
BridgeOS Restore Error 10 – The BridgeOS Restore failed! This is most likely because the host Mac was 1 or 2 OS Versions behind the Target Mac. The Host and Target Mac need to be on the same OS Version.
If your Target Mac is on 10.15, then your Host Mac needs to be on 10.15.
The OS Cannot be restored on this device.
The operation couldn’t be completed. (AMRestoreErrorDomain error 10 – Failed to handle message type StatusMsg) [AMRestoreErrorDomain – 0xA (10)]
BridgeOS Restore Error 10 – The Host and Target Mac need to be on the same OS Version.
Host Mac and Target Mac Disconnected during restore. – Error 4005
The OS Cannot be restored on this device.
Gave up waiting for device to transition from RestoreOS state to BootedOS State. [com.apple.MobileDevice.MobileRestore – 0xFA5 (4005)]
BridgeOS Restore Error 0xFA5 (4005)
This error will come up when the restore process has been interrupted.
Or, you might get this using Apple Configurator 2 version 2.12.1, as the process never seems to complete properly. If the Target Mac awakes to the login window the process is complete even though the progress bar is at 100%. After unplugging the USB-C cable you will get the error above.
Apple Configurator 2 Reports RECOVERY instead of DFU Status.
Apple Configurator 2 Reports RECOVERY instead of DFU Status.
If you see RECOVERY this means that BridgeOS is unable to boot and is the default status when you power on the Mac.
Failed BridgeOS Restore due to OS Version Mismatch! The Target Mac is a previous OS i.e 10.14 trying to restore a 10.15 Mac, the update will fail with an Error 10
If the Mac already failed the Upgrade, it could already be in this status. If so, you can attempt a BridgeOS restore.
Configurator could not perform the requested action. Apple Controller devices do not support this action.
This means that you selected Actions > Update, which is not supported. You need to select Actions > Advanced > Revive Device
Apple Configurator 2 BridgeOS Firmware Download Location.
Thanks MrMacintosh Reader Max C for letting me know the location of the BridgeOS Firmware files.
UPDATE 01/02/21 – This article is only for Apple Silicon M1 Macs
Use a USB installer with Big Sur 11.2 to reinstall macOS
Enter macOS recovery. If you have FileVault 2 enabled, click the Recovery Assistant menu and then select “Erase Mac”. If you don’t have FileVault 2 Enabled or have already erased the drive, click utilities from the top menu bar and then click Terminal. Enter in the command resetpassword This will bring you back to the Recovery Assistant menu. Click the Recovery Assistant menu bar item at the top and then select “Erase Mac”.
UPDATE 11/19/20 – It looks like Apple has fixed the issue! I’ve just finished reinstalling macOS Big Sur from macOS Recovery and from a USB Installer drive. Everything works now!
UPDATE 11/18/20 –I originally reported that this error would happen on a factory build of Big Sur 11.0 (20A2411) but it also happens if you are running 11.0.1 (20B29). To review…
It doesn’t matter if you are using macOS Recovery or Big Sur USB Installer, you will be unable to reinstall Big Sur!!!
The only way to recover is by using a 2nd Mac with Apple Configurator 2!!
When the macOS is reinstalling the Mac will attempt to personalize the version that is being installed. You will get this error.
An error occurred preparing the update. failed to personalize the software update. Please try again.
macOS Big Sur Reinstall on an Apple Silicon Mac running the shipping version 11.0 (20A2411) Credit MacRumors Forum user craigslorach.
Mr. Macintosh Update video on the issue with additional steps.
https://youtu.be/3P2fhIS7_7M
Mr. Macintosh video that explains the issue.
Can this issue be fixed?
YES! The ONLY way to fix this issue is to use Apple Configurator 2 and reinstall macOS with a 2nd Mac.
Today Apple released macOS Big Sur Beta 11.1 Beta (20C5048k) to Developers
MacOS Big Sur 11.1 Beta was released on November 17th, 2020. The release comes on Apple Silicon M1 Mac Day! One big change is the version number.
macOS 11.1
This means that instead of getting 11.0.2, we will get 11.1. Next year it seems we will get macOS 12. This is a big change and it looks like Apple is trying to follow the iOS and iPad version system.
If you need to rebuild your Apple Silicon Mac, be sure to check out both of my new articles.
macOS Big Sur 11.0.1 Beta 2 Release Candidate (20B5022a) Release Notes
Overview
The macOS 11.1 SDK provides support to develop apps for Macs running macOS Big Sur 11.1 beta. The SDK comes bundled with Xcode 12.3 beta, available from Beta Software Downloads. For information on the compatibility requirements for Xcode 12.3 beta, see Xcode 12.3 Beta Release Notes.
Accessibility
Known Issues
InfoVox voices from AcapellaGroup aren’t currently supported by VoiceOver. (64880915)Workaround: Choose an alternate voice such as Alex or Siri.
Mac Catalyst
Known Issues
Full-screen mode might zoom content beyond the borders of your display. (70103920)
The zoom-to-fit state isn’t currently preserved across app launches. (70885745)
When you present a view controller with page sheet or form sheet presentation style, the size of the view controller’s root view is, by default, determined by the value returned from the presented view controller’s preferredContentSize method and the view is not resizable. You can arrange for the presented view controller to be resizable by using Auto Layout to specify the maximum and minimum sizes of its root view. To enable this, set the canResizeToFitContent property of the application’s main window to YES. One way to do this is to override the willMove(toWindow:) or didMoveToWindow() methods of a view in the main view controller. (65254666)For example:- (void)willMoveToWindow:(UIWindow *)newWindow { [super willMoveToWindow:newWindow]; newWindow.canResizeToFitContent = YES;}
Software Update
Known Issues
A known issue prevents booting back into macOS Big Sur 11.0.1 after installing macOS Big Sur 11.1 beta onto a separate volume on Macs with Apple silicon. (71353899)
Using either macOS Recovery or a bootable installer to reinstall macOS Big Sur 11.1 beta on Macs with Apple silicon isn’t currently supported. (71353899)Workaround: Use the Restore option in the latest version of Apple Configurator 2 running on a secondary Mac. Note that this will erase all content from the storage media on the Mac you’re restoring.
How to Reinstall macOS on your Apple Silicon Mac. – Everything you need to know!!
Apple Silicon M1 Mac Recovery has changed! The interface, options and the way you reinstall macOS is all new. I will show you everything you need to know.
UPDATED 09/25/21
Apple Silicon Macs started to arrive in customers hands on Tuesday November 17th, 2020. One of the first things we need to understand is how to reinstall or factory erase macOS on Apple Silicon. All the old rules that you had to follow with Intel Macs has now changed. I will show you 3 different ways to reinstall macOS Big Sur on a Apple Silicon Mac.
If you are looking for more information on Apple Silicon Macs, I’ve wrote an article going over everything you need to know.
Right off the bat, we need to understand that Mac Internet Recovery on Apple Silicon is DEAD! Finally you don’t have to worry about IR errors and the problems that come with them.
Internet Recovery will still remain for Intel based Macs. For Apple Silicon we now have 4 different ways to reinstall macOS.
1. macOS Recovery = First line of recovery.
2. System Recovery = Hidden partition for when normal macOS recovery is not available.
3. macOS Big Sur USB Installer Drive. = Boot to a createinstallmedia based Big Sur full installer.
4. macOS System Restore via DFU mode + Apple Configurator 2.
Reinstall macOS on Apple Silicon Table of Contents
1. macOS Recovery
2. macOS System Recovery
3. Both macOS Recovery and System Recovery are not available?
4. macOS Big Sur USB Install Drive
5. How to Use Apple Configurator 2 to reinstall macOS on Apple Silicon
6. Apple Silicon Security Policy
7. Apple Silicon Compatible Versions of macOS
8. Can I downgrade macOS on Apple Silicon?
9. Where can I get macOS ISPW Firmware files?
10. Signed? What does that mean?
1. Apple Silicon macOS Recovery
Apple Silicon macOS Recovery is almost exactly the same as it is on Intel Based Macs. One of the major things that has changed is the way that you get into macOS Recovery. Instead of having to remember a bunch of keyboard commands you can now use the power button to get right to the boot picker macOS recovery menu!
Mr. Macintosh video on how to get to the macOS recovery menu on Apple Silicon Macs
Mr. Macintosh How to – Boot to recovery + Erase & Reinstall macOS on your Apple Silicon M1 MacBook Pro & MacBook Air!
https://youtu.be/lBiUSnrYyFM
Mr. Macintosh How to Video – Boot to Recovery + Erase & Reinstall macOS on Apple Silicon Mac Mini M1. I will also show you how to boot from a Big Sur USB installer to reinstall macOS twice as fast!
The video above shows you how to factory restore / erase your Apple Silicon Mac and reinstall macOS.
First line of defense, is macOS Recovery.
2. Apple Silicon System Recovery
Apple Silicon System Recovery is a new hidden recovery option in addition to macOS Recovery. If for some reason macOS Recovery becomes corrupt, System recovery will load which is the same as macOS recovery. You can use it to reinstall macOS and macOS Recovery.
3. Both macOS Recovery and System Recovery are not available?
If something serious goes wrong with your Mac and it can’t boot into macOS you will see a new startup screen. (The blinking folder icon has been retired). You will now see a screen like this
Apple Silicon Startup problems – Prohibited sign – Credit Martin Nobel – https://twitter.com/martinnobel_/status/1321645315502432256
This screen has a new Apple Support URL support.apple.com/mac/restore which will tell you that you need to restore macOS firmware via Apple Configurator 2 and a 2nd mac running 10.15.6 or newer. Restoration will now work the same on the Mac as it does on iOS iPhones and iPads.
4. Apple Silicon External Boot Options – USB Installer
On Apple Silicon external boot remains, but has changed.
External Boot for the macOS installer is now enabled by default
You no longer need to enter Security Options to enable External Boot!
Now you can build out an USB Installer of macOS Big Sur and boot your Apple Silicon Mac to it.
https://youtu.be/dQCp-rQlZuY
Mr. Macintosh Video on how to create a macOS Big Sur USB Install Disk for Apple Silicon or Intel.
https://youtu.be/2iNDe2zAJyg
Mr. Macintosh Video on how to use a USB Installer to reinstall macOS on Apple Silicon!You can now boot a USB macOS installer without enabling external boot in Security options! It’s enabled by default.
5. How to Use Apple Configurator 2 to reinstall macOS on Apple Silicon
If all options to reinstall macOS fail you can now use Apple Configurator 2.
1. Revive = Will restore macOS Recovery Only. (User data remains)
2. Restore = Will will download macOS and macOS recovery and reinstall them (THIS WILL ALSO ERASE YOUR HARD DRIVE)
This will help with rapid deployment in lab / school situations.
My Mac T2 BridgeOS Restore article will show you this process. It has not changed except for one thing. In the future the “RESTORE” option will automatically download the newest macOS ISPW file for you and install it. For now you will need to download it and and drag it over to the DFU icon.
Mr. Macintosh quick overview video on how to boot your Apple Silicon Mac to DFU mode. I will also show you how to reinstall macOS in 10 minutes with Apple Configurator 2 and a 2nd Mac.
How to reinstall macOS on a M1 Mac Mini UPDATED VIDEO!
Mr. Macintosh Deep Dive video that goes over the entire process and explains how the enter DFU and Apple Configurator 2 works + Troubleshooting!
How to install macOS on multiple Apple Silicon M1 Macs in about 10 minutes!
I’ve also written an article that goes over the entire new DFU + Apple Configurator 2 Apple Silicon Restore process below.
1.Full Security = “iOS Security” – Only the latest signed version of macOS can be installed on an Apple Silicon Mac.
Full Security
Ensures that only your current OS, or signed operating system software currently trusted by Apple, can run. This mode requires a network connection at software installation time.
WWDC 2020
2. Reduced Security = Any version of macOS that was signed by Apple.
Reduced Security
Allows any version of signed operating system software ever trusted by Apple to run.
WWDC 2020
With the new Apple Silicon Security Policy, you can set a security policy for each container! On an Intel based Mac the security policy would be set on the entire system.
New Apple Silicon Security Policy can be set differently on each container.
7. Apple Silicon Compatible Versions of macOS
Will you be able to install older versions of macOS? A quick review;
Full Security = iOS based security, only the latest signed version of macOS can run on the system.
Reduced Security = Any version of macOS that was signed by Apple can run on Apple Silicon
Note: The shipping OS version will be the oldest OS available to install
8. Can I downgrade macOS on Apple Silicon?
Yes!
Note. The “Shipping version” of macOS on Apple Silicon is the lowest OS that can be installed. An example of this is the M1 iMac which came with 11.3. You can not install Big Sur 11.2 on it.
9. Where can I get macOS ISPW Firmware files?
I started a new database page that will keep track of all macOS Apple Silicone IPSW Firmware files.
Starting with Apple Silicon, macOS OTA (Over The Air) Firmware will be signed by Apple. This means that they control which version of macOS can be installed on your Mac. The difference this time around is that Apple gives us the option to turn Signed Checking OFF. So you will still be able to install older versions of macOS.
Apple Silicon macOS Big Sur IPSW Firmware Restore File Database
How to download Apple Silicon M1 macOS IPSW Restore Files. You can use them with Apple Configurator 2 and a 2nd Mac for quick restores.
UPDATED: 12/11/24
With the introduction of the new Apple Silicon M1 Mac, you can now reinstall macOS with Apple Configurator 2 and IPSW files just like iOS! This page is a database of all macOS IPSW Files. The macOS ISPW firmware files database will be updated when new updates are released.
Table of Contents
1.macOS Sequoia Final IPSW Firmware files
2. macOS Sonoma Final IPSW Firmware files
3. macOS Ventura Final IPSW Firmware files
4. macOS Monterey Final IPSW Firmware Files
5. macOS Big Sur Final IPSW Firmware Files
6. macOS Sequoia Beta IPSW Firmware files
7. macOS Sonoma Beta IPSW Firmware files
8. macOS Ventura Beta IPSW Firmware Files
9. macOS Monterey Beta IPSW Firmware Files
10. macOS Big Sur Beta IPSW Firmware Files
All download links are directly from Apple’s SUS Server.
For more information on how to reinstall macOS on your Apple Silicon Mac, I’ve written an article that goes over everything you need to know!
macOS Big Sur running list of install / upgrade problems.
This article is a running list of all known macOS Big Sur install / upgrade issues.
macOS Big Sur launched on Thursday November 12th, 2020. As with any launch of a product or software there will be issues. In the case of Big Sur, the problems started almost immediately. Users started to report download issues when trying to get Big Sur.
As the the week went by, more serious issues started showing up. If you are seeing a one of these issues, feel free leave a comment below.
Mr. Macintosh video that goes over some of the known Big Sur Install issues.
macOS Big Sur Install Issues Table of Contents
UPDATED 2/14/21 – List of macOS Big Sur Installation Issues.
1. Big Sur Full Installer.app Download Problems – “Installation Failed Error Occurred while installing the selected updates.”
2. Big Sur progress gets stuck mid installation – Black Screen with Apple Logo stuck or stopped progress bar
3. Big Sur Install failing and bricking some older 13″ MBPro’s – Installation fails and the Mac has a black screen – Will not respond to any startup commands.
4. Big Sur stuck in endless boot loop. – Some users are reporting after a good install the Mac is stuck in an endless boot loop.
5. Slowness after upgrade to Big Sur – Other have reported that their Mac is very slow after upgrading to Big Sur.
6. Reinstalling macOS Big Sur on Apple Silicon –
7. Big Sur Upgrade Error – An error occurred preparing the software update.
8. If you can’t unlock settings in System Preferences Big Sur 11.1
If more trending issues come in, they will be posted here.
1. Big Sur Full Installer.app Download Problems – “Installation Failed Error Occurred while installing the selected updates.”
UPDATE 11/27/20 – I’m still getting a bunch of people reaching out saying that they are still getting the error even after Apple fixed the issue! I have a fix for you via Hyram Hakkenbecker. You can download the full macOS Big Sur installer directly from Apple’s servers via Safari.
2. Big Sur progress gets stuck mid installation – Black Screen with Apple Logo stuck or stopped progress bar
This issue happens halfway through the Big Sup upgrade or install process. The Mac has already rebooted to the installer and is now on the progress bar. The problem is, something has gone wrong on the install and the progress bar gets stuck at a certain percentage and will never move again.
The progress bar looks to gets stuck at around 40% and will never move again. Below is a screen shot from MacRumors forum user plandersen.
Big Sur install Black Screen progress bar stuck.
What should you do if this issue happens to you?
1. First WAIT! Sometimes the install process takes time. If after a few hours pass and the progress bar has not moved go to the next step.
2. At this point, you have no choice but to power down. I know this sounds drastic, but you literally have no other choice. The good news is, this is also the fix. Many users have reported that this fixes the issue for them. After force powering down the Mac will come back up and and will boot right to Big Sur.
Out of all the reports, this one is the most serious. I do not throw around the “Bricking” term much, as it means that the Mac is usually DEAD. In this situation, if this issue happens to your Mac it will be non responsive.
The reports say that the install starts but after the reboot they get a black screen with nothing on it. Even if the user restarts they will still get the black screen. If they attempt to hold down option, Command R, Reset the Pram, SMC… etc nothing works. In this mode the Mac will NOT respond to any startup keyboard commands
Mr. Macintosh video going over the 2013-2014 13″ MacBook Pro Bricking Issue
Mr. Macintosh UPDATE video going over the 2013-2014 13″ MacBook Pro Bricking Issue
Affected Macs known so far.
13″ MacBook Pro from 2013-2014.
What should you do if this issue happens to you?
In my option, this issue is 100% on Apple to fix for users. If an update or upgrade causes a Mac to become unusable they need to fix it at no cost to the user.
Wait until a possible new fix comes in.
Wait for a Service Program that will cover this issue.
Bring your Mac into service. Apple so far is saying that you will need to replace the logic board. If they say it will cost you to fix the issue, ask for escalation. This issue is not your fault. A macOS update or upgrade should not BRICK your Mac!
(WARNING this is a last ditch attempt. Try at your own risk!) Try disconnecting the I/O board.
Reddit user maknell wrote an great write up covering the issue.
Other users have reported that after installing Big Sur, their Mac will be in an endless boot loop.
What should you do if this issue happens to you?
1. Try to boot into safe mode. Does the the Mac boot correctly? If so something installed on your mac is causing this issue. Maybe it’s an 3rd party application that has installed a Kernel Extension or a LaunchDaemon that is causing the issue.
2. Reinstall macOS
5. Slowness after upgrade to Big Sur – Other have reported that their Mac is very slow after upgrading to Big Sur.
I am starting to see a decent amount people say that after updating to macOS Big Sur from macOS Mojave or Catalina has caused a bunch of weird issues including slowness. The slowness is all over the system, including opening apps, Apple Menu and system preferences just taking a long time to load.
What should you do if this issue happens to you?
Wait! It’s possible that spotlight search is currently indexing and can take some time.
If after a while the system is still slow, open up activity monitor and click on the CPU or Memory tabs. Are any apps or processes taking very large amounts of memory or CPU?
If so kill the process then check system performance.
Still having issues after checking everything? Backup your data and perform a fresh install. I have macOS Big Sur running on a bunch of Macs even all the way back to the 2014 model. They all run very well. Almost all of them had a fresh install. This might be the way to go.
6. Reinstall macOS Big Sur on Apple Silicon Mac = An error occurred preparing the update. failed to personalize the software update. Please try again.
If you try to reinstall macOS on your new M1 Apple Silicon Mac you will get an error. The issue requires a 2nd Mac to fix!
7. Big Sur Upgrade Error – An error occurred preparing the software update.
If you attempted to upgrade to macOS Big Sur and you did not have enough free space on your hard drive the upgrade will fail! This will also leave you in an upgrade install loop. Even worse, if you have Filevault encryption enabled you will be locked out of your data!
Mr. Macintosh Deep Dive full report of this issue + full walkthrough and fixes for multiple situations!
8. If you can’t unlock settings in System Preferences Big Sur 11.1
If you can’t unlock settings in System Preferences If System Preferences doesn’t accept a valid administrator password when you click the lock to make changes, try these solutions.
