Excel 16.97 update error

Anonymous
2025-04-24T19:52:36+00:00

Hi, I am getting an update error installing Microsoft Excel 16.97 on Mac OS Sequoia. I am currently on 16.96. The install stops near the end of the progress bar for a long time and then I get an update error.

I've had similar issues before and resolved by installing from the pkg file but I can't find the 16.97 install file.

Is it possible to download a pkg file?

Microsoft 365 Insider | Install, activate, and update | MacOS

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  1. Jim G 134K Reputation points MVP
    2025-04-26T16:17:38+00:00

    OK we've beat the install issues to death and ruled out just about everything. It's time to focus on the OS.

    First, verify the startup volume

    Repair a disk using Disk Utility on Mac - Apple Support

    Then, make a new user account in Mac OS System Preferences and try again in the new user..

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  2. Anonymous
    2025-04-26T10:57:31+00:00

    Hi, I've been through those steps. No issues with the storage. Installed latest from pkg. Tried from Safe Mode
    NO joy I'm afraid.

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  3. Jim G 134K Reputation points MVP
    2025-04-26T00:31:43+00:00

    Beta builds are available only via AutoUpdate.

    Things you might try:

    Verify your Mac's startup volume:

    How to repair a Mac storage device with Disk Utility

    Reinstall AutoUpdate:
    Download a copy of the current version of AutoUpdate from this link, install and then run AutoUpdate to bring your installation to current update level, then restart your Mac. If the updater does not open automatically after download, double-click the downloaded .pkg file. Click this link to download the updater. The update is free.

    https://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/p/?linkid=830196

    Boot your Mac to Safe Mode and then try to update again

    How to Boot in Safe Mode on an Apple Silicon Powered Mac

    Older macs: Perform a Safe Boot by holding the SHIFT key down as your Mac starts up from a restart or shut down.

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  4. Anonymous
    2025-04-25T19:08:47+00:00

    I'm on the beta channel, so 16.97 is the latest version. Do you have the Beta location to Download & Install Excel Manually?

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  5. Anonymous
    2025-04-25T16:44:35+00:00

    Hi MikePugh2

    Thank you for posting here in Community.

    I understand how important this with you especially when you've encountered similar issues before and had a workaround that worked. No worries—we’ll figure out a solution to get Microsoft Excel updated properly.

    Possible Causes & Fixes

    1. Restart & Try Again
      • Sometimes, a simple restart clears temporary update issues.
      • Restart your Mac, then attempt the update again.
    2. Check Available Disk Space
      • Go to Apple Menu → About This Mac → Storage.
      • Ensure you have enough free space for the update. Lack of space can cause installation failures.
    3. Install Updates Through Microsoft AutoUpdate
      • Open Microsoft Excel → Help → Check for Updates.
      • Make sure Microsoft AutoUpdate is running and can install the update.
    4. Delete Temporary Update Files & Retry
      • Go to Library > Application Support > Microsoft > MAU and delete temporary files.
      • Then, restart the update process.
    5. Download & Install Excel Manually
    6. Try Installing in Safe Mode
      • Restart your Mac and hold Shift to enter Safe Mode.
      • Then, attempt to install the update from there.

    Hopefully one of these fixes gets Excel running smoothly for you again!

    Best regards,

    Bo

    Microsoft Community

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