For macOS users seeking a swift boost in storage space, a new open-source command line tool, RemoveMacAI, offers a straightforward solution. This tool not only switches off Apple’s AI features but also deletes the hefty 12GB of AI models that can clutter your Mac’s disk. By turning off features like Siri, Writing Tools, and Genmoji, and deleting the models, users can reclaim valuable storage.

The developer notes that the changes persist even after macOS updates, ensuring a consistent experience. However, for those who might change their minds, there’s a ‘removemacai revert’ command that reinstates the features and allows the AI models to download again.

While the developer claims the models take up about 12GB, users have pointed out that the actual space used can vary. On one user’s MacBook Air, the space dedicated to Apple Intelligence was a whopping 35.05GB, as revealed by navigating through the Settings app.

Some might question whether removing these AI features impacts the overall user experience. Dictation, for example, will still work, ensuring that communication remains seamless. However, the removal of other AI tools could lead to a less personalized and potentially less efficient user experience.