Catalina Installer Bluetooth Issue - iMac 17,1

[SketchyClown]

It seems a little late to be asking this with Big Sur on the way, but this has been a persistent problem ever since Catalina was released.

I'm curious if anyone else experienced this, not worrying too much about at fix, but suggestions are always welcome.

After making a USB installer and getting to the installation screen, my Apple BT Magic Mouse & keyboard do not function. It is like the BT controller is not being initiated on boot up of the USB installer. This was present for me in 10.15.0 all the way to 10.15.5 as I have tested remaking a USB installer for each update to see if they squashed whatever could be going on.

Overcoming the issue is as simple as plugging in a spare USB mouse & KB. Installation completes, I can unplug them, and when the computer boots to the desktop, BT is working fine and gives me no issues from that point on.

I have never experienced this issue with any other version of macOS on my iMac except Catalina. I could throw the Mojave installer in right now and BT would function normally inside the installer.

Again, just fishing for similar experiences.

 

[Taz Mangus]

Try doing a SMC reset.

Reset the SMC of your Mac - Apple Support

The SMC is responsible for managing power on your Mac. Resetting it can resolve certain uncommon issues related to power or thermal management.

support.apple.com

 

[SketchyClown]

Try doing a SMC reset.

Reset the SMC of your Mac - Apple Support

The SMC is responsible for managing power on your Mac. Resetting it can resolve certain uncommon issues related to power or thermal management.

support.apple.com

Thanks Taz, I have reset SMC & NVRAM, no change in behaviour.