Fix Excel for Mac Power Query XML Import Hanging or Loading Indefinitely
Question details
The user needs to resolve an issue where Power Query XML imports freeze and fail to complete in Excel for Mac.
- Product
- Microsoft Excel for Mac
- Device & OS
- macOS
- Scenario
- Attempting to import an XML file into a workbook using Power Query in Excel for Mac.
- Observed behavior
- The XML import process gets stuck on the loading screen indefinitely, even when using files that previously imported successfully.
Ensure your Mac is connected to the internet to check for the latest Microsoft Office updates, and prepare a small, simple XML file to safely test the import functionality.
Convert XML to CSV or JSON Locally Before Importing
Bypassing the buggy Mac XML connector by converting your file to a more stable format like CSV or JSON is currently the most reliable workaround.
Since this issue is a known regression in the Excel for Mac XML parser, feeding the data through a different format circumvents the bug entirely.
Use local conversion tools instead of online converters to ensure data privacy, especially if your files contain sensitive or confidential information. For simple tabular XML, convert it to CSV. For complex or nested XML, convert it to JSON.
Use a trusted local software tool or script (such as Python or a dedicated desktop converter) to convert your XML file into a CSV or JSON format.
Launch Excel for Mac, open your workbook, and click on the 'Data' tab located in the top ribbon menu.
Click 'Get Data' (or 'From Text/CSV') and select your newly converted CSV or JSON file to import it seamlessly into Power Query.
Update Excel for Mac to the Latest Version
Microsoft occasionally releases patches for known regressions. Installing the latest update might resolve the hanging XML connector issue.
Use Excel for Windows and Report the Issue
If the issue persists on Mac, using the Windows version of Excel is a solid alternative, while reporting the bug helps Microsoft fix it.
Try WPS Office for Seamless Data Processing
If bugs in Excel for Mac are disrupting your workflow, WPS Office provides a lightweight, highly compatible, and free alternative. Enjoy seamless document creation and robust data analysis without unexpected software hangs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Power Query in Excel for Mac hang when importing XML?
This is often caused by a software bug or regression in the Mac XML connector introduced in recent Excel updates. The parser fails to load the data structure properly, resulting in an indefinite loading screen.
Can I use an online converter to change my XML to CSV?
While online converters are convenient, you should strictly avoid them if your XML file contains sensitive or confidential data to prevent potential data leaks. Always use trusted local conversion software for business data.
Is the XML hanging issue present in Excel for Windows?
Typically, no. The Power Query XML connector in Excel for Windows uses a different architecture and is generally much more stable. Importing the file on a Windows machine is a frequently recommended workaround.
How do I report this Power Query bug to Microsoft?
Open Excel for Mac, click on 'Help' in the top menu bar, and select 'Feedback'. Provide a detailed description of the hang, your exact macOS and Excel versions, and attach a sample XML file that triggers the issue.
