Open-source tool helps Mac users reclaim 12GB+ of storage by removing Apple Intelligence

A new open-source command-line utility called RemoveMacAI offers Mac users an efficient way to shed the considerable storage footprint of Apple Intelligence and regain disk space.

The problem: buried settings and persistent models#

macOS 27 removed the straightforward toggle that once let users disable Apple Intelligence with a single switch. Since then, the AI models remain installed on the system even when features are turned off, and the controls for disabling them have been scattered across multiple settings pages—including some tucked within Screen Time preferences. This fragmentation leaves the foundation models occupying roughly 12GB of disk space, though some users report even larger allocations (one developer noted 35GB on their MacBook Air).

What RemoveMacAI does#

The tool consolidates what would otherwise require adjusting numerous individual settings. In a single command, it disables Siri, Writing Tools, Genmoji, Image Playground, and the ChatGPT extension, then removes the underlying AI models and prevents macOS from downloading them in future updates. According to its creator, dictionary and voice dictation features continue to work normally.

Reversibility and persistence#

Should users change their mind, the "removemacai revert" command restores the AI features and permits model downloads to resume. The developer claims these changes survive macOS updates. A "removemacai status" command also lets users inspect the disk usage of individual AI models on their device.

The tool emerged after MacRumors highlighted its availability, following a developer post on Reddit explaining the motivation behind the project.