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cant delete files from desktop since update

What has changed. can't drag files to bin or right click to remove files. I have to sign in to iCloud to delete the files.

iMac 21.5" 4K, macOS 10.15

Posted on Dec 5, 2019 3:06 PM

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Question marked as Best reply

Posted on Dec 9, 2019 6:51 AM

Hi brackbox,


Thank you for using the Apple Support Communities! I understand you are experiencing an issue removing files from your desktop, and I am happy to assist.


-What specifically happens when you are attempting these actions (drag and drop, or secondary click) to remove items from your desktop?

-Do you have Desktop and Documents files turned on in iCloud Drive? Add your Desktop and Documents files to iCloud Drive - Apple Support.


I would recommend the following to get started:


-Make sure you are using the latest macOS Catalina version: How to update the software on your Mac - Apple Support.

-Restart your Mac and try again: How to turn your Mac on or off - Apple Support.


If you need continued support, reply back with responses to the questions above.



Best regards.

3 replies
Question marked as Best reply

Dec 9, 2019 6:51 AM in response to brackbox

Hi brackbox,


Thank you for using the Apple Support Communities! I understand you are experiencing an issue removing files from your desktop, and I am happy to assist.


-What specifically happens when you are attempting these actions (drag and drop, or secondary click) to remove items from your desktop?

-Do you have Desktop and Documents files turned on in iCloud Drive? Add your Desktop and Documents files to iCloud Drive - Apple Support.


I would recommend the following to get started:


-Make sure you are using the latest macOS Catalina version: How to update the software on your Mac - Apple Support.

-Restart your Mac and try again: How to turn your Mac on or off - Apple Support.


If you need continued support, reply back with responses to the questions above.



Best regards.

Dec 10, 2019 4:53 AM in response to MoonJ.

Thank you. Problem seems to have been resolved by restarting the computer. The only think I can add to this is that I feel sure that I had tried this first and the most common remedy previously.


I also feel the problem presented itself after an update or by using the screenshot utility rather than the shortcut.


Thanks again.

cant delete files from desktop since update

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