macOS Sonoma 14.4: Reasons not to update

Since Apple unveiled macOS Sonoma 14.4 on March 7, the transition to the latest software update hasn't been entirely smooth for everyone, and users have reported a number of issues that are significantly impacting their daily workflow.

This article lists the most notable challenges users have encountered since updating to macOS Sonoma 14.4, and provides potential solutions where available.

USB hub and display ports

Lost connection

Some users have had issues connecting to USB hubs and monitors with USB ports since updating to macOS 14.4, with several reports of undetected mice, keyboards, and other peripherals. While Apple is working to resolve the issue, a few users have had some success by changing the “Allow accessories to connect” setting to “Require new accessories” under the Security section of System Settings → Privacy & Security.

Java operations

Unexpected terminations

Oracle warned last week that the macOS 14.4 update could cause Java processes to “terminate unexpectedly” on Macs. The issue affects all versions of Java from Java 8 through early access versions of JDK 22, and there is no workaround available. Affected users may not be able to return to a stable configuration unless they have a full backup of their systems before updating the operating system.

Turn on the printer

Removed or damaged drivers

Update may Remove or destroy printer drivers. Specifically, the CUPS core software for network printing operations appears to have been removed. HP printers in particular appear to be affected, but subtle commonalities between reports, such as usage Microsoft Defender Mobile Device Management Software or JAMF, is not entirely clear. Some users have found a workaround by granting full disk access for certain operations in System Settings ➝ Privacy & Security. Despite these attempts, a comprehensive solution has not yet been found.

PACE/iLok protection

Audio module plug-ins malfunction

There have been reports of compatibility issues with PACE products, including: iLok License Manager, connected to Macs running macOS 14.4. The issue particularly affects plug-ins from various manufacturers that are protected by PACE/iLok, including those Made by Global Voice, when used with DAW hosts like Logic Pro. Temporarily set the DAW and iLok License Manager application Run in Rosetta mode It seems to circumvent this issue.

Consider not updating

If you anticipate that any of these issues may significantly impact your daily operations or productivity, it may be wise to delay updating to the latest version of macOS Sonoma until Apple addresses these concerns with a later fix. Have you identified any other issues since the update? Let us know in the comments and we may include it here if it turns out to be popular.