MacOS Monterey update hangs at 52 minutes remaining, even in safe mode.

I had the same problem until I downloaded from the App Store rather than using Software Update in System Preferences. Good luck!

Hi sgb1948,

We'd love to assist you with getting the update completed. Let's see if it freezes in another user account? If you already have another user account set up, then you can use that one or create a new one to test in using the steps here: Set up users, guests, and groups on Mac

Take care

Empty Space Requirements  >> If upgrading from macOS Sierra or later, your Mac needs 26GB of available storage to upgrade. If upgrading from an earlier release, your Mac needs up to 44GB of available storage. 

Trust the Computer met the Empty Space Requirement before the attempted upGrade from Big Sur ?

The upgrade stalls on one of my MacBook Airs, too. Yes, plenty of space. Same when signing as a different (”fresh”) user. The same in safe mode.

I was thinking the downloaded file may be corrupt and wanted to trash it and start anew. I cannot find the download on the computer I'm afraid. Any ideas?

Yes, it freezes in mine as well