If you try to reinstall macOS on your new M1 Apple Silicon Mac you will get an error. The issue requires a 2nd Mac to fix!
UPDATE 02/08/21 – If you are upgrading to macOS Big Sur on an Intel Mac and are getting the error message “An error occurred preparing the software update” and are now stuck in a boot loop – go here > https://mrmacintosh.com/big-sur-upgrade-not-enough-hd-space-serious-issue-possible-data-loss/
UPDATE 01/02/21 – This article is only for Apple Silicon M1 Macs
- Use a USB installer with Big Sur 11.2 to reinstall macOS
- Enter macOS recovery. If you have FileVault 2 enabled, click the Recovery Assistant menu and then select “Erase Mac”. If you don’t have FileVault 2 Enabled or have already erased the drive, click utilities from the top menu bar and then click Terminal. Enter in the command
resetpasswordThis will bring you back to the Recovery Assistant menu. Click the Recovery Assistant menu bar item at the top and then select “Erase Mac”. - If the first two items don’t work, you can follow these instructions from Apple. https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT211983
UPDATE 11/19/20 – It looks like Apple has fixed the issue! I’ve just finished reinstalling macOS Big Sur from macOS Recovery and from a USB Installer drive. Everything works now!
UPDATE 11/18/20 – I originally reported that this error would happen on a factory build of Big Sur 11.0 (20A2411) but it also happens if you are running 11.0.1 (20B29). To review…
It doesn’t matter if you are using macOS Recovery or Big Sur USB Installer, you will be unable to reinstall Big Sur!!!
The only way to recover is by using a 2nd Mac with Apple Configurator 2!!
When the macOS is reinstalling the Mac will attempt to personalize the version that is being installed. You will get this error.
An error occurred preparing the update. failed to personalize the software update. Please try again.
Can this issue be fixed?
YES! The ONLY way to fix this issue is to use Apple Configurator 2 and reinstall macOS with a 2nd Mac.
I’ve documented the entire process here.
mrmacintosh.com/restore-macos-firmware-on-an-apple-silicon-mac-boot-to-dfu-mode/
mrmacintosh.com/how-to-reinstall-macos-on-your-apple-silicon-mac-everything-you-need-to-know/
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