Apple has released macOS Sonoma 14.4.1, which is a minor update for the macOS Sonoma operating system that launched last September, but one that fixes a handful of widely reported bugs that were introduced in macOS 14.4.
Since Apple unveiled macOS 14.4 on March 7, a number of issues have been reported by users that significantly impact their daily workflow. This article summarizes the bugs that are fixed in macOS 14.4.1, according to Apple's release notes.
USB Hub Connectivity Issues
FIXED
Some users experienced connectivity issues with USB hubs and monitors with USB ports since updating to macOS 14.4, with several reports of mice, keyboards, and other peripherals no longer being detected. Apple now says macOS 14.4.1 provides a bug fix for cases in which "USB hubs connected to external displays may not be recognized."
Java Apps Quit Unexpectedly
FIXED
Oracle last week warned that Apple's macOS 14.4 update can cause Java processes to "terminate unexpectedly" on Macs. The issue affected all Java versions from Java 8 to the early access builds of JDK 22, and there was no workaround available. Apple now says macOS 14.4.1 provides a bug fix for cases where "apps that include Java may quit unexpectedly."
Audio Unit Plugins Crash
FIXED
There have been reports of compatibility issues with PACE products in macOS 14.4, including the iLok License Manager, connected to Apple silicon Macs running macOS 14.4. The problem specifically impacts plugins from various manufacturers that are safeguarded by PACE/iLok, including those made by Universal Audio, when used with host DAWs such as Logic Pro. Apple's release notes for macOS 14.4.1 say the update provides a fix for cases in which "copy protected Audio Unit plug-ins designed for professional music apps may not open or pass validation."
Potential Issues Remaining in macOS 14.4.1
There are still a couple of issues in macOS Sonoma 14.4 that are not mentioned in the release notes for Apple's latest point update, so it is best to assume they have not been addressed.
Printer Operation
Removed or Corrupted Drivers
The update may remove or corrupt printer drivers. Specifically, the core CUPS software for printing operations over a network seems to be removed. HP printers in particular appear to be affected, but the exact commonalities between the reports, such as the use of Microsoft Defender or JAMF mobile device management software, are not entirely clear. Some users have found a workaround by granting Full Disk Access to certain processes in System Settings ➝ Privacy & Security. Despite these attempts, a comprehensive solution has not yet been found.
iCloud Drive
Destroys Saved Versions
Users running macOS 14.4 that have "Optimize Mac Storage" enabled should be aware that they are at risk of losing all previously saved versions of a file if they opt to remove it from iCloud Drive local storage. Versions are normally created automatically when users save files using apps that work with the version system in macOS. If you have already updated, either do not save files to iCloud Drive at all, or turning off Optimize Mac Storage. To perform the latter in System Settings, click your Apple ID, select iCloud, and then toggle off the switch next to "Optimize Mac Storage."
Consider Not Updating
If you have yet to update to macOS 14.4 or later, and you anticipate that either or both of these problems could significantly impact your daily operations or productivity, it may be prudent to delay updating your Mac until Apple explicitly addresses these concerns with a subsequent fix.
