How to Fix Messages App Randomly Quits After macOS 15.4 Update?

Problem Description

After updating to macOS Sequoia 15.4, many Mac users are experiencing a severe issue: the Messages app (and sometimes other Apple apps like Podcasts, Weather, and Safari) randomly quits without warning or error messages. The app simply disappears, often during normal use, making it unreliable for communication and productivity. This bug has been widely reported on Apple Community forums and Reddit, affecting various Mac models—especially those with M1 and M2 chips.

Key Symptoms

• Messages app closes randomly, sometimes after 10 minutes, sometimes after hours
• No crash alert, error message, or crash log in Console
• Other Apple apps (Podcasts, Weather, Safari) may also be affected
• Issue persists even after safe boot, cache clearing, or full OS reinstall
• Not all Macs are affected; newer models (e.g., M4 MacBook Pro) may run fine

“Since updating to 15.4 my messages app and Podcast app on my Mac just shut down. They don’t appear to crash since I don’t receive a pop up stating the app has crashed.”
— AdminVDS1, Apple Community

Solution Steps

While there is no official fix from Apple as of now, users and experts have identified several troubleshooting steps that may help mitigate the issue. Some users have found partial relief with these methods, though results may vary.

Solution 1: Create a New User Account

1. Add a new user account via System Settings > Users > Add User.
2. Log in with your Apple ID on the new account and use Messages for 30+ minutes.
3. If the app stays open, the problem may be tied to your main user profile.
4. Return to your main account and try re-enabling all login items and extensions, then restart your Mac and test Messages again.

Solution 2: Update All Apps and macOS

Check the App Store for updates to Messages and other Apple apps. Keep macOS updated; Apple may release a minor update (e.g., 15.4.1) to address this bug soon.

Solution 3: Reinstall the Messages App

Delete Messages (if possible) and reinstall it from the App Store.

Solution 4: Check for Rosetta Issues (Apple Silicon Macs)

If you use Intel-only apps via Rosetta 2, reinstall Rosetta:

softwareupdate --install-rosetta --agree-to-license

Some app crashes are linked to Rosetta compatibility.

Solution 5: Safe Mode Troubleshooting

1. Boot into Safe Mode (hold Shift at startup).
2. If Messages works in Safe Mode, the issue may be caused by login items or system extensions. Disable or remove suspicious login items.

Solution 6: Reset App Permissions

1. Go to System Settings > Privacy & Security > Full Disk Access.
2. Toggle Messages’ access off and on.

Solution 7: Check Console for Crash Reports

1. Open Console > Crash Reports.
2. Look for recurring errors related to Messages or other affected apps.

Solution 8: Wait for an Official Patch

If none of the above work, the bug is likely on Apple’s end. Monitor for a macOS update (15.4.1 or later) and install it as soon as available.

This is a devastating bug that has left many users frustrated and unable to rely on their Macs for messaging. While some workarounds may provide temporary relief, the most effective solution will likely come from an official Apple update. Keep your system updated and monitor Apple’s support channels for news on a fix. In the meantime, consider using alternative devices or web-based messaging solutions if reliability is critical