Sonoma: 'Close windows when quitting an application' is ignored

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Level 1

4 points

Sonoma: 'Close windows when quitting an application' is ignored

On my 2021 MBP (w/M1 Max), launching apps such as Preview, QuickTime Player, and TextEdit also reopens files that had previously been used with those apps. My Settings > Desktop & Dock > 'Close windows when quitting an application' setting is enabled. The old files are still reopened even after I've manually closed them (as well as cleared the 'recent' menu) before closing the corresponding app. This all started the moment I upgraded from Ventura to Sonoma. Anyone else having this issue?

MacBook Pro 16″, macOS 14.6

Posted on Aug 28, 2024 7:01 AM

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Answer 1

etresoft

Level 9

56,656 points

Aug 28, 2024 8:00 AM in response to ross_f

There are a few different mechanisms that could be going on.

This Apple Support Document: Prevent apps and windows from reopening on Mac - Apple Support

describes how they work and gives some suggestions on how to reset them. Try the suggestions listed at the end of the document.

The idea is that the iPhone has proven 10 times more successful than the Mac, so Apple is making the Mac work like the phone. Closing of a document is now disassociated from quitting the app. Assume that all apps are always running and then it makes more sense. You only close a document when you are finished with it. You'll experience various problems if you try to circumvent this new logic.

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Answer 2

Aug 28, 2024 7:50 AM in response to ross_f

That’s typical behavior , nothing to worry about. It’s been llike that for years. Apple assumes you’ll be using them again and they don’t take up much resources so they just remain on and hidden. I do a force quit just to see what’s left running then go manually quit them. I’m not a fan of this feature. But again it’s nothing to be concerned about . Oh you may try at shut down to not reopen previously open documents. It’s also located in the preferences

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