Quick Summary
The "OSStatus error -10810" on macOS typically indicates that the application you are trying to launch cannot be found. This can happen for a variety of reasons, usually related to file corruption, incorrect file paths, or issues with application registration.
Common Causes
- Application File Corruption: The application's executable file may be damaged or incomplete, preventing the operating system from launching it.
- Incorrect File Path or Missing Alias: The system is trying to access the application at a location where it no longer exists or was never installed. This can be caused by moving the application after it was initially installed or by a broken alias.
- Application Not Properly Registered: macOS maintains a database of installed applications. If the application wasn't registered properly during installation, the system might not know how to execute it.
- Gatekeeper Restrictions: macOS Gatekeeper security settings may be preventing the application from launching, especially if it's from an unidentified developer or hasn't been notarized by Apple.
Step-by-Step Fixes
Method 1: Verify Application Existence and Location
Step 1: Open Finder.
Step 2: Navigate to the location where the application is installed (usually the /Applications folder).
Step 3: Confirm that the application file is present and hasn't been accidentally moved or deleted.
Step 4: If it's an alias or symbolic link, ensure that the original application file is still in its expected location and accessible.
Method 2: Reinstall the Application
Step 1: Drag the application from the /Applications folder to the Trash.
Step 2: Empty the Trash.
Step 3: Download a fresh copy of the application from the official website or the Mac App Store.
Step 4: Follow the installation instructions provided by the application developer.
Method 3: Reset Launch Services Database
Step 1: Open Terminal (found in /Applications/Utilities).
Step 2: Execute the following command: /System/Library/Frameworks/CoreServices.framework/Frameworks/LaunchServices.framework/Support/lsregister -kill -r -domain local -domain system -domain user
Step 3: This command resets the Launch Services database, forcing macOS to re-register all installed applications. Note that this process can take a few minutes.
Step 4: Restart your computer after the command finishes. Try launching the application again.
Method 4: Check Gatekeeper Settings
Step 1: Open System Preferences.
Step 2: Go to Security & Privacy, then click the General tab.
Step 3: Under "Allow applications downloaded from," make sure either "App Store" or "App Store and identified developers" is selected. If your application is from an unidentified developer and you trust it, you can temporarily select "Anywhere" (not recommended for security reasons) to allow it to launch, or look for an option to 'Open Anyway' next to recent attempts to launch the app.
Step 4: If you changed the Gatekeeper settings, try launching the application again. Remember to revert your Gatekeeper settings to a more secure level afterwards, if possible.