How to Fix OneNote Sync Issue on macOS with Error Code 0xE000006C cig68 30115

Will Downgrading OneNote Solve Your Frustrating macOS Sync Problems Forever? Is Your OneNote Failing to Sync on macOS? Try These Powerful Fixes for Error 0xE000006C

OneNote users on older macOS versions are experiencing persistent sync failures with the error message “Sync error: please refresh this notebook to continue syncing. Refresh now” accompanied by error code 0xE000006C cig68 30115. This issue primarily affects users running macOS Catalina (10.15) and Mojave (10.14), creating a significant compatibility barrier for those unable to upgrade their operating systems.

Understanding the Root Cause

Microsoft has quietly updated OneNote’s system requirements, now mandating macOS 13 or higher for proper synchronization functionality. This change effectively abandons users on older Mac hardware who cannot upgrade beyond Catalina or Mojave, creating a frustrating situation where the app launches but fails to sync notebooks.

Solution 1: Update to macOS 13 or Higher

The most straightforward solution involves upgrading your operating system:

1. Check your Mac’s compatibility with macOS 13 (Ventura) or later versions
2. Navigate to System Preferences > Software Update
3. Install the latest compatible macOS version
4. Restart your Mac and test OneNote synchronization

This approach ensures full compatibility with current OneNote features and future updates.

Solution 2: Downgrade to OneNote Version 16.33

For users unable to upgrade macOS, downgrading OneNote provides a reliable workaround:

Complete Removal of Current OneNote

1. Drag OneNote from Applications to Trash
2. Navigate to ~/Library/Containers/ and delete com.microsoft.onenote.mac
3. Empty Trash completely
4. Restart your Mac

Install OneNote 16.33

1. Download OneNote 16.33 from Microsoft’s official update history page
2. Install the older version following standard macOS installation procedures
3. Launch OneNote and verify sync functionality

This method has proven successful for users on macOS Catalina (10.15.7) and maintains access to existing notebooks without data loss.

Important Considerations

Version Compatibility Testing

• OneNote versions 16.40 and later exhibit the same sync problems on older macOS versions
• Version 16.33 represents the last stable release compatible with macOS Catalina and Mojave
• Intermediate versions (16.34-16.39) remain untested but likely problematic

Microsoft’s Official Response

Microsoft has not officially acknowledged this compatibility issue or provided an estimated timeline for resolution. The company appears to be prioritizing newer operating systems, potentially leaving older Mac users without official support.

Alternative Approaches

Web-Based OneNote

• Access OneNote through your web browser at office.com
• Maintains full sync functionality regardless of macOS version
• Limited offline capabilities compared to the desktop application

Third-Party Note-Taking Apps

• Consider alternatives like Notion, Evernote, or Apple Notes
• Evaluate migration options if OneNote compatibility remains problematic