iMac 2019 software update stuck at 'Preparing' for over an hour

Waited 35 minutes to download update and it got stuck at “ preparing “ and didn’t move for an hour



[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Original Title: iMac 2019 software update

Posted on Oct 12, 2025 1:09 PM

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Posted on Oct 12, 2025 2:06 PM

Shut the Mac down by holding down the Power button for 10 seconds or more till the Mac shuts down.


Next boot into Safe Mode according to How to use safe mode on your Mac and try installing from there.


Note:  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 assure a successful boot into Safe Mode.





1 reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Oct 12, 2025 2:06 PM in response to vincefromcarbondale

Shut the Mac down by holding down the Power button for 10 seconds or more till the Mac shuts down.


Next boot into Safe Mode according to How to use safe mode on your Mac and try installing from there.


Note:  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 assure a successful boot into Safe Mode.





iMac 2019 software update stuck at 'Preparing' for over an hour

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