Mac users are scratching their heads over a frustrating issue that’s been plaguing their Messages app. Ever since the macOS 15.4 update rolled out, people have been reporting that the app shuts down on its own. No warning, no error message — just gone. It’s left many unable to rely on Messages for texting or staying connected.
The trouble started soon after Apple released macOS 15.4 in early April 2025. This update, part of the Sequoia lineup, promised bug fixes and performance tweaks. Instead, it seems to have brought a new headache for some users. Posts started popping up on Apple Community forums and Reddit, with people describing the same odd behavior.
One user, AdminVDS1, wrote on the Apple forums, “Since updating to 15.4 my messages ap 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.” The app simply vanishes, often randomly, leaving no trace of why it closed.
It’s not just Messages taking a hit. Some users have noticed other Apple apps like Podcasts, Weather, and even Safari acting up too. The problem seems to strike out of nowhere. For some, it happens every few minutes. For others, it might take hours, but it always comes back. Another user, yamagato, shared, “This has been happening to me since the 15.4 update on an Air M2. No crash message, nothing in Console logs. Just… closed. It seems random. Might be 10 mins, might be 2 hours, but it will happen.”
User discussions suggest that people have tried safe-booting, clearing caches, even reinstalling the entire operating system, but nothing seems to work. One Reddit user, cranberryforever, posted, “I’ve literally done a completely clean re-install from scratch and still getting the issues.” It’s a sign this might be a deeper bug tied to the update itself.
Not everyone is affected, though. Yamagato pointed out that their M4 MacBook Pro, also on 15.4, runs fine. This has led some to wonder if the issue is tied to specific Mac models, like older M1 or M2 devices. Still, with dozens of “me too” replies on forums, it’s clear this isn’t an isolated glitch.
That said, let me know if you’re also facing the same issue or if the Messages app (and other apps) work fine.
Dwayne Cubbins
854 Posts
For nearly a decade, I've been deciphering the complexities of the tech world, with a particular passion for helping users navigate the ever-changing tech landscape. From crafting in-depth guides that unlock your phone's hidden potential to uncovering and explaining the latest bugs and glitches, I make sure you get the most out of your devices. And yes, you might occasionally find me ranting about some truly frustrating tech mishaps.
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