macOS Ventura, the latest macOS version, was launched in October 2022 with many new features and add-ons. However, after upgrading to updating to Ventura, users find several technical glitches that stop them from using USB accessories on Mac.
If you are planning to update your Mac operating system to the latest version, expect to see some difficulty with the USB connectivity. You may find that the USB device is not showing up on Mac, or other errors like USB accessories are disabled.
Why You Need to Connect Accessories to Mac
Well, there are a number of different professionals that demand connecting at least one or more devices to the computer. If you are a data analyst, you might need to keep your SSD connected to the Mac all time around since you are working with large chunks of data.
Similarly, if you are a photographer, you would need to connect even more accessories, such as an SD card, a camera, or an external monitor. But if you are running macOS Ventura, you can find difficulty in handling your projects.
What You Need to Do to Allow Accessories to Connect
On Apple Silicon Macs, you need to approve new USB, SD cards, or Thunderbolt devices that you connect to the computer. As soon as you tap Allow, the USB accessory will allow both data and power transmission.
If you tap Don't Allow, the USB accessory can charge but can't transmit data. When you are using macOS 13.3 or later versions, the system may only prompt you to approve SD cards.
You can also change the settings if you do not want to manually approve the device to connect to the Mac.
Next time you connect Gopro to Mac after tweaking the macOS settings, you don't have to disable the access manually. Follow the steps mentioned below:
If you own the device or the accessory you are trying to connect, tap Allow to connect it. When you are connecting your computer to a public device, click on Don't Allow to deny the device or accessory to connect.
Note
Disabling manual approval may pose a threat to unknown USB devices.
Why USB Accessories Disable on Ventura
There are a number of reasons that prevent USB accessories and devices from connecting to your MacBook. In most cases, simple resolutions prove to be powerful, while several issues require implementing advanced fixes.
In this section, we will discuss some common reasons and their troubleshooting methods.
Ensure USB Port Is Working Properly
Sometimes, it's not the latest macOS update that is causing USB connectivity issues but a damaged port that fails to recognize the device. In this case, you need to get the port repaired. Take your Mac to the nearest repair store.
Restart Your MacBook
Restart is a solution to many technical glitches on digital devices. Not only it's simple, but the quickest way to troubleshoot any major issue. Before you plan to get your USB port repaired, restart the Mac and check if it fixes the problem.
Unplug Unnecessary USB Devices
When you have connected a lot of USB devices to the Mac, some of the accessories might not work. Unplug the ones you don't need at the moment, and then check if the connected devices are working. Also, check if the device you're trying to connect is working.
Reset SMC or NVRAM
The System Management Controller (SMC) and the Non-Volatile Random Access Memory (NVRAM) is responsible for controlling the parts of Mac hardware and operating system settings. Check if resetting the SMC and PRAM helps to fix the issue.
Update Driver and Firmware
To resume the proper functioning of the USB ports, consider updating the drivers and firmware. This may help you fix the USB accessories disabled message on your Mac. Also, make sure to install the drivers and firmware from the manufacturer's website.
Clean Virus or Malware
Sometimes USB devices display connectivity errors due to malware attacks. Scan your computer for viruses using an antivirus app and delete any malicious item permanently. Download the antivirus app from a legitimate link only.
Downgrade macOS
If the USB connectivity error begins to occur after you update to the latest macOS, downgrade your Mac computer to the previous version. This can fix the issue and make your USB ports functional.
Clean USB Port
Check the USB ports for dust and clean them carefully using a tiny brush. Dust starts to accumulate over time, preventing proper connectivity of the ports and making them nonfunctional. Clean all the ports properly to make the ports work.