BusyContacts (Setapp): app crashes or stops working after an update on older macOS
If you’re using BusyContacts through Setapp on an older macOS version (for example macOS 11 Big Sur), and BusyContacts suddenly starts crashing or stops launching after an update, the most common cause is OS compatibility.
BusyContacts evolves alongside macOS, and newer BusyContacts releases may require newer macOS versions.
What to check first
- Confirm your macOS version: Apple menu > About This Mac
- Check the minimum OS requirement for the BusyContacts version you’re trying to run:
- Our release notes include a
minOsVersionfield for each release. - You can also see a list of BusyContacts releases here: Can I download old versions of BusyCal and BusyContacts?
- Our release notes include a
Recovery options
Option A: Install a compatible BusyContacts version (recommended)
If your Mac can’t upgrade to a newer macOS version, install an older BusyContacts version that supports your macOS.
Option B: Recover your data (backups)
If your primary goal is to access your contacts data:
- Restore from a BusyContacts backup: Backup and Restore
- If you’re mid-upgrade and see database conversion issues: BusyContacts update stuck on converting database
Option C: Use the BusyContacts trial temporarily to export data
If you can’t immediately get a compatible Setapp build on your Mac, you can temporarily install the direct BusyContacts build from BusyMac to:
- restore a backup
- export contacts as vCard/CSV (as supported)
See: Exporting and Importing Contacts
Notes
- We can help troubleshoot BusyContacts itself, but Setapp controls Setapp-specific distribution and rollback options.
- If you need an older Setapp build, Setapp support can advise on what options exist for your account and macOS version.