Apple fixed a bug in the macOS Big Sur installer that could result in data loss and a perpetual install loops for unlucky users.
The macOS Big Sur 11.2.1 fix, released Monday, causes Macs to carry out checks to see if users have enough free space for installation prior to updating their systems.
Before this, Big Sur failed to check that users had the sufficient 35GB needed to install the latest version of Apple’s Mac operating system. As a result, the installation could get stuck midway through the install process.
This meant that users who hadn’t backed up their Macs using Time Machine could potentially lose saved data. It’s a great example of how bugs don’t necessarily have to be massive, glaring vulnerabilities in order to make life miserable for users. It just takes one coding error (and a human error on the part of the installer, by not checking to see if their Mac had enough storage space) to make life miserable.
macOS Big Sur 11.2.1 (20D75) full installer is now available for download.
I've confirmed the new installer now checks for free space properly.
This was a serious problem, and I'm glad users will no longer get caught by this issue. https://t.co/dYSuRjdd4p pic.twitter.com/ILxoKfhORn
— Mr. Macintosh (@ClassicII_MrMac) February 15, 2021
To upgrade to the new bug-fixed version of macOS, go to System Preferences > Software Update on your Mac. Then hit the Update Now button to install the update. (And, no, you shouldn’t have to check your available storage beforehand. It’s still a good idea to do so, however.)
Not the first critical bug Apple has fixed lately
This isn’t the only critical bug Apple fixed this week. Also on Monday, Apple released watchOS 7.3.1. That update fixed a serious problem with Apple Watch Series 5 and Apple Watch SE that caused certain devices to get stuck in Power Reserve mode, unable to charge. Apple also launched a free repair program for Apple Watches unable to upgrade as a result of the flaw.
Have you experienced either of these bugs? Let us know in the comments below.