Fix Notes App Not Working After macOS Sequoia Update

After updating to macOS Sequoia, some users have encountered issues with the Notes app not functioning properly. Common problems include saved notes not opening, the app becoming unresponsive, or even crashing upon launch. These issues can be particularly frustrating for those who rely on Notes for organizing tasks, storing ideas, or managing important information. Unfortunately, basic troubleshooting steps, such as restarting the app or the Mac, often do not resolve the problem.

I rely heavily on the Notes app in my daily life. It’s my go-to for jotting down everything from grocery lists and quick reminders to important work notes and personal journaling. If you’re experiencing the same issue, I understand how disruptive it can be. If you’re facing these challenges, try the following fixes one by one until the issue is resolved. These steps are designed to address the various glitches affecting the Notes app and help restore it to full functionality.

Fix 1: Use Handoff to Restore the Notes Content Panel on Mac

If the Notes app isn’t displaying the content panel or responding properly, you can use the Handoff feature between your Mac and iPhone:

1. Switch to Gallery View on Mac:
   Open the Notes app on your Mac and switch to the Gallery View. Then, close the app completely.
2. Create a New Note on iPhone:
   On your iPhone, open the Notes app, create a new note, and add some content to it.
3. Trigger Handoff on Mac:
   Return to your Mac and click on the Notes app icon in the Dock or Finder. This should activate the Handoff feature and allow you to continue working on the note you just created.
4. Check the Content Panel:
   The Handoff action should refresh the Notes app, and the content panel should reappear.

Fix 2: Sign Out and Back Into iCloud for Notes

Sometimes, logging out of your iCloud account for Notes and then logging back in can resolve syncing issues. Here’s how:

1. Open System Settings:
   Click the Apple menu () and select System Settings.
2. Access iCloud Settings:
   Navigate to Your Name (Apple ID) > iCloud.
3. Click Notes.
4. Disable Notes in iCloud:
   Toggle off Notes in the iCloud settings by turning off the Sync this Mac button.
5. Restart Your Mac:
   Restart your device to ensure changes take effect.
6. Re-enable Notes in iCloud:
   Return to the iCloud settings and toggle Notes back on. Sign in if prompted.
7. Sync and Check Notes:
   Open the Notes app and allow it to sync with iCloud. The issue should now be resolved.

Fix 3: Reset Notes Data and Resync with iCloud

If the problem persists, resetting the local Notes data and resyncing with iCloud can help:

1. Disable iCloud Syncing for Notes:

• Open System Settings > Apple ID – Your Name > iCloud.
• Uncheck the box next to Notes to disable syncing temporarily (same steps as the fix number 2).

2. Quit the Notes App: Close the app completely.
3. Access Notes Data in Finder:

• Open Finder and press Command + Shift + G. (see this article to learn more about the Library Folder)
• Enter this path and press Enter:
  ~/Library/Containers/com.apple.Notes

4. Backup Existing Data:

• Create a folder in your Downloads to serve as a backup.
• Copy all files from the com.apple.Notes folder into your backup folder.

5. Delete Notes Data:

• Delete all files and folders inside the com.apple.Notes folder.

6. Repeat for Group Containers Data:

• Open Finder again and go to:
  ~/Library/Group Containers/group.com.apple.notes
• Backup the contents as before, then delete all files and folders inside this folder.

7. Re-enable iCloud Syncing for Notes:

• Go back to System Settings > Apple ID – Your Name > iCloud and check the box next to Notes.
• Sign in if prompted.

8. Check the Notes App:
   Open the Notes app and wait for it to resync with iCloud. The app should now function correctly.

By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the issues with the Notes app after updating to macOS Sequoia. If the problem persists, consider reaching out to Apple Support for further assistance.

Related articles:

• Notes Are Not Syncing Between iPhone, iPad and Mac
• How To Reset Forgotten Notes Password