When an app that you regularly use on your computer fails to open up, it leaves you frustrated. The situation becomes even worse when the app freezes and all you see is the launching interface that doesn’t seem to end up.
Force quitting the app is certainly the quick troubleshooting that you want to try without any second thought. If the application still won’t start, you can try other workaround methods to open the application on your computer.
If you are dealing with a similar situation, the article is for you. Let’s first understand the reasons that make the app unfunctional on Mac and then move on to the potential ways to resolve the problem.
Why Does an Application Won’t Start?
Most of the time, you don’t find any technical problems while using your Mac, and all the apps, even the ones you use rarely seem to work perfectly. However, there are situations when simple apps like QuickTime or Spotlight Search stop working as usual.
There are a number of reasons why your Mac applications freeze up or start to behave abnormally. Understanding the actual reason for app failure is important to get rid of the problem and make it functional.
Some of the most common issues that stop Mac applications from working appropriately are as under:
- App corrupts due to sudden system crash
- The app is conflicting with another program
- You are running an outdated version of the application
- You need to repair the app’s permission and preferences
How to Fix a Mac App Not Working Error?
Regardless of the reason, several troubleshooting methods are there to fix the problem and make the app functional on Mac.
Check for Subscription
When you try to run microsoft word on macbook and the app fails to open, the chances are that the Office 365 subscription has expired. Renew the subscription to make the app work. Also, check if there are any third-party restrictions that are preventing the app from running smoothly.
Restart Your MacBook
More often, a simple restart is all you need to fix even the complex technical failures. So, if an app turns unfunctional, restart your MacBook and wait for a few minutes before you attempt to reopen the app. Now, double-click the app icon and check if it’s working normally.
Update the Application
If you are running an outdated version of an app, it may fail to launch on your computer. Whether or not you are using a Mac, it is important that you keep the updated version of apps on your computer to avoid technical or security vulnerabilities. So, update and launch the app again.
Run Mac in Safe Mode
When you start your Mac in Safe Mode, it boots up to troubleshoot the environment with restricted startup items. In this mode, macOS uses limited resources and settings. Now, attempt to open the app in Safe Mode. If it starts, any of the startup items on the MacBook may be at fault.
Repair App Permissions
In the latest versions of macOS, app permissions are usually repaired automatically with software updates. To repair application permissions manually, navigate to the Disk Utility by opening Finder, clicking on Go, and then Utilities.
Reinstall the App
If none of the above-mentioned methods seems to make the app functional, uninstall and then reinstall the app in question. Make sure to check if the app is available in the App Store before you delete it permanently. For third-party apps, install from legitimate stores or websites only.
Update macOS
Sometimes, the app you are trying to open is fine and the real fault lies in the version of the operating system your Mac is running. In that case, update the operating system to the latest version and try to run the app to check if it’s working.
Scan Your Computer
A malicious item might be preventing the application from running appropriately. Scan your MacBook to detect if the problem is virus-specific. Also, check if there are suspicious files stored on the computer that might be creating the problem. Delete such files right away.
Pay Attention to App Behaviour
If you notice an app icon bouncing up and down, it indicates that the app is asking for your attention. Sometimes, it requires a password to open an app. So, type in the password or other information to launch the app on the computer.
Contact Apple Support
After trying all the above-mentioned methods, if you are still not able to launch the app on your MacBook, it’s time to seek professional help. Contact Apple Support and explain the situation briefly. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully.
Final Words
I hope the solutions given in this article helped you to solve your problem with MacBook applications. Remember that, before you try any of the troubleshooting tips, don’t forget to back up all the files and apps stored on the MacBook. If anything goes wrong, you can restore data from the backup.
