How to Fix an Apple Mac Stuck on Loading Screen: Expert Tips

My Mac is stuck on the Apple loading bar screen

Why is Your Apple Mac Stuck on the Loading Screen?

When your MacBook is starting up or installing the latest macOS update, you might notice the Apple logo and a progress bar on the screen. Typically, a normal startup takes about 30 seconds, but during an update, the progress bar might take longer to complete.

However, if the progress bar seems stuck for an unusually long time and the Apple logo remains on the screen, your Mac might be experiencing what is commonly referred to as being "stuck on the loading screen."

Here are some potential reasons why your Mac might be stuck on this screen:

⚡Corrupted System Files: Sometimes, essential system files can become corrupted, causing your Mac to hang during startup.
⚡Software Conflicts: Recently installed software or updates might conflict with existing system files, preventing a smooth startup.
⚡Hardware Issues: Faulty or incompatible hardware, such as a damaged hard drive or failing RAM, can also cause startup issues.
⚡Insufficient Storage: Lack of available storage space can hinder the operating system from loading properly, leading to a freeze.

Understanding these causes can help you troubleshoot and resolve the issue effectively.

How to Fix an Apple Mac Stuck on Loading Screen

Now, here’s the section you've been waiting for. We’re going to cover all the effective methods to resolve the issue of your MacBook Pro getting stuck on the loading screen. These techniques will not only help you get your MacBook Pro back up and running but also prevent future occurrences of this problem.

Fix 1: Disconnect Everything and Restart Your Mac

Restarting your Mac is often the quickest way to fix a frozen startup. Disconnecting external devices and rebooting is a straightforward solution that frequently resolves the issue. Sometimes, faulty peripherals or external devices can cause the Mac to get stuck on the Apple logo screen. To address this, follow these steps:

Step 1: Hold down the power button on your Mac for several seconds until it powers off.

Step 2: Disconnect all external devices from your MacBook.

Step 3 Wait a few minutes, then press the power button again to reboot your Mac.

Fix 2: Reboot into Safe Mode

Starting your Mac in Safe Mode can help resolve issues with a stuck loading screen. This problem often arises due to corrupted software or malware, and Safe Mode helps by running only essential functions, making it easier to identify the cause. Follow these steps to boot your MacBook in Safe Mode:

Step 1: Press and hold the Shift key while pressing the Power button.

Step 2: Keep holding the keys until you see the loading screen on your MacBook.

Step 3: Once the Safe Mode option appears, ensure it's selected, then let your Mac run.

Your Mac will now boot in a secure environment, which should help resolve the freezing issue on the loading screen.

Fix 3: Reset the SMC on Your Mac

Resetting the SMC (System Management Controller) can help resolve the issue of your Mac getting stuck on the loading screen. If your MacBook has a T2 chip, follow these steps to reset the SMC:

Step 1: Press the power button to shut down your Mac completely.

Step 2: Hold down the Shift, Control, and Option keys simultaneously.

Step 3: While holding those keys, press and hold the power button for 7 seconds.

Step 4: Release all keys simultaneously, then press the power button again to turn the Mac back on.

This process should help reset the SMC and potentially fix the issue with the loading screen.

Sync Tool: AOMEI Backupper Sync Files on Mac for Data Safety

When your Mac faces unexpected issues, one of the primary concerns is the potential loss of critical data. To safeguard against such risks, it's essential to have a solid backup plan. Instead of constantly worrying, why not explore a reliable Mac data sync solution? AOMEI Backupper Mac is an excellent choice for keeping your essential files synced and secure. Its user-friendly interface and powerful features make data management straightforward, ensuring that your important files are always protected and easily accessible.

AOMEI Backupper Mac

Free Mac sync software to sync files and folders automatically

Download Freeware
macOS 10.15 or later

Step 1: Download and install the AOMEI Backupper Mac software. After installation, open the program and click on "New Task" to initiate the process.

Step 2: Select the synchronization method that aligns with your needs. For instance, if you're syncing files between two folders, consider using options like Mirror Sync or Two-Way Sync.

Basic Sync: Moves files from one place to another but keeps them in the original spot.
Mirror Sync: Creates an identical copy of the files from the source at the destination, including deleting any files at the destination that are no longer in the source.
Two-Way Sync: Ensures that files at both the source and destination stay updated by reflecting any changes made in either location.

Step 3: Identify and select the source and destination folders where the sync process will occur.

Step 4: Tailor the sync schedule and adjust other settings to fit your specific requirements.

You can set how often the synchronization occurs—whether it’s once, hourly, daily, weekly, or monthly. Additionally, you can choose when the synchronization should start and whether the system should go into hibernation or shut down after the process is finished.

In the Options menu, you can adjust the synchronization with features like including or excluding specific files and folders.

Step 5: Once all configurations are set, click the "Sync" button to begin the synchronization process.

FAQs

Q 1: What should I do if my Mac is still stuck on the loading screen after trying all the solutions?

A 1: If your Mac remains stuck on the loading screen despite following the above solutions, consider contacting Apple Support or visiting an authorized service provider. Persistent issues could indicate a more serious hardware problem that requires professional diagnosis.

Q 2: Can a macOS update cause my Mac to get stuck on the loading screen?

A 2: Yes, a macOS update can sometimes cause your Mac to freeze on the loading screen, especially if the update process was interrupted or if the update has compatibility issues with your existing software or hardware.

Q 3: How can I prevent my Mac from getting stuck on the loading screen in the future?

A 3: Regularly updating your macOS, keeping your software and drivers up-to-date, and running routine maintenance checks (like clearing cache and repairing disk permissions) can help prevent startup issues. Also, avoid installing unverified third-party apps that could conflict with your system.

Expert Tips to Avoid Future Issues

1. Regular Software Updates: Always keep your macOS and installed applications up-to-date to minimize the risk of conflicts that could lead to startup issues.

2. Routine Maintenance: Periodically clear cache files, check disk permissions, and ensure your hard drive has enough free space to operate efficiently.

3. Use Reliable Backups: Invest in reliable backup solutions like Time Machine or AOMEI Backupper to ensure your data is safe in case your Mac encounters serious issues that require a system restore or repair.

Conclusion

Dealing with an Apple Mac stuck on the loading screen can be a stressful experience, but with the right approach, it’s a problem that can often be resolved without professional help. By understanding the root causes and following the outlined solutions, you can get your Mac back up and running smoothly. Regular maintenance, updates, and the use of backup solutions can help prevent this issue from recurring in the future.