Fix Missing OneDrive Finder Sync Icons on macOS Big Sur
Question details
The user needs to restore missing OneDrive file status overlay icons in macOS Finder.
- Product
- OneDrive
- Device & OS
- macOS Big Sur
- Scenario
- Viewing synced cloud files in macOS Finder to monitor their synchronization status.
- Observed behavior
- File status sync overlays are missing from Finder even after performing a basic reset of the OneDrive application.
Ensure you have administrative privileges on your Mac, as modifying System Preferences and Finder Extensions requires admin access. Additionally, make sure your OneDrive app is updated to the latest version.
Disable Conflicting Finder Extensions
Finder extensions from other applications can conflict with OneDrive, preventing the status icons from displaying properly.
macOS limits the number of Finder extensions that can overlay icons on files. Antivirus software or other cloud storage apps often use these slots, pushing OneDrive out and causing sync icons to disappear.
Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner of your screen and select 'System Preferences'.
Click on 'Extensions' and then select 'Finder Extensions' from the left-hand sidebar.
Uncheck extensions from other applications, such as Avira Security Finder Extension or other syncing tools.
Hold the Option key on your keyboard, right-click the Finder icon in your Dock, and select 'Relaunch' to apply the changes.
Enable OneDrive Finder Integration
The OneDrive Finder extension must be explicitly enabled in macOS System Preferences to show status overlays.
Perform a Full Reset of the OneDrive App
Running the built-in reset script can resolve deep-seated sync and UI issues within the OneDrive application.
Manage and Sync Documents Seamlessly with WPS Office
If you are struggling with missing sync icons and macOS extension conflicts, try WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, fully compatible document environment with built-in cloud management, avoiding complex OS integration issues.
- 1. Download and Install: Download WPS Office for Mac from the official website and easily drag it into your Applications folder.
- 2. Save to WPS Cloud: Open your Office documents and save them directly to WPS Cloud for real-time synchronization across all your devices.
- 3. Check Sync Status Easily: View your file upload and sync status effortlessly within the built-in WPS file manager interface without relying on Finder extensions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do my OneDrive sync icons suddenly disappear on Mac?
This usually happens due to major macOS system updates (like upgrading to Big Sur), conflicts with third-party Finder extensions such as antivirus software, or the OneDrive Finder integration being accidentally disabled in System Preferences.
How do I restart Finder on macOS to refresh sync icons?
Hold down the Option (Alt) key, right-click the Finder icon located in your Dock, and click 'Relaunch'. This will restart Finder and force it to reload all active extensions, including OneDrive's status overlays.
Does Mac Safe Mode help fix OneDrive sync icon issues?
Yes, booting your Mac in Safe Mode temporarily disables third-party system extensions and login items. If the OneDrive sync icons appear while in Safe Mode, it confirms that another application's extension is causing the conflict during normal boot.
