Catalina install is stuck on an iMac

My attempt to install Catalina on an iMac has left the computer frozen at the boot screen. All I'm seeing is the Apple logo and a progress bar that is stuck at about 10%.

I waited four hours, then powered it off, booted into recovery mode and ran first aid on the disk. After that I rebooted and ended up in the same state, it has now been there for about 12 hours.

What should I do?

Posted on Nov 1, 2019 4:51 PM

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2 replies

i_rina

Community Specialist

Nov 6, 2019 1:15 PM in response to larosaf

Hello larosaf,

Thank you for using Apple Support Communities! I see that your iMac won't boot past the screen showing an Apple logo and progress bar after attempting to upgrade to macOS Catalina. It sounds like you've already tried some great steps to help isolate causes. I'd like to have you try the remaining suggestions in the following support article next:

If your Mac starts up to an Apple logo or progress bar - Apple Support

If you're still unable to proceed past this screen after, you'll want to reach out to Apple Support using the link under the "If you need help" section.

Take care.

Nov 6, 2019 1:20 PM in response to larosaf

Looks just like my own iMac -- 21.5" - late 2013.

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Catalina install is stuck on an iMac