Sys Settings > General > Login Items can't be selected nor removed

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Level 1

29 points

Sys Settings > General > Login Items can't be selected nor removed

I'm trying to select a Login Item for removal in Sys Settings on latest Mac OS Ventura 13.5.2 on a MBP 13" 2017 without success.

Goal: To remove an app from loading at login (but not delete it entirely).

Problem: Its Sys Settings > Login Item reference cannot be selected (none of the others can be either) so it cannot be removed.

What Happens: Trying to select a Login Item is impossible. I can click on an item and it highlights for a moment but then immediately goes back to unselected state. The "-" icon in the lower left of the window remains deactivated (presumably because nothing can be selected). Right-clicking an item has no effect nor the delete key (again presumably because nothing can be selected).

NOTE: The "+" icon is active and can be used to add login items.

Things Tried: System reboot.

Bug or Feature: Am I oblivious or is this a bug?

I can't see any other way of removing a login item short of removing the entire app.

MacBook Pro 13″

Posted on Sep 21, 2023 11:13 AM

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Answer 1

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Old Toad

Level 10

207,847 points

Sep 21, 2023 11:41 AM in response to sassy monkey

Are you in an administrative account? If so try the following:

Give this a try: boot into Safe Mode according to How to use safe mode on your Mac and test to see if the problem persists. Reboot normally and test again.

NOTE 1: Safe Mode boot can take up to 3 - 5 minutes as it's doing the following;

• Verifies your startup disk and attempts to repair directory issues, if needed

• Loads only required kernel extensions (prevents 3rd party kernel/extensions from loading)

• Prevents Startup Items and Login Items from opening automatically

• Disables user-installed fonts

• Deletes font caches, kernel cache, and other system cache files

NOTE 2: if you have a wireless keyboard with rechargeable batteries connect it with its charging cable before booting into Safe Mode. This makes it act as a wired keyboard as will insure a successful boot into Safe Mode.

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Answer 2

sassy monkey Author

Level 1

29 points

Sep 21, 2023 12:11 PM in response to Old Toad

I am using an Admin user account.

The Safe Boot mode allowed me to remove the item.

Interestingly, after rebooting in, uh, Unsafe Boot or the normal mode, the selection of Login Items works normally. Seems like the directory repair or other processes in Safe mode fixed the issue.

Thanks so much for the help, Old Toad!

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Answer 3

Old Toad

Level 10

207,847 points

Sep 21, 2023 1:30 PM in response to sassy monkey

👍

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Sys Settings > General > Login Items can't be selected nor removed

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