Free macOS app Purge finds and clears hidden storage clutter
Purge is a free Mac utility that scans a computer for recoverable storage, including caches, Apple's Aerial screensaver videos, Homebrew dev files, large forgotten media files, and leftover data from already-deleted apps. It also offers a full app-uninstaller that removes associated settings and caches, plus a tool to disable Apple Intelligence's offline AI models, which macOS 27 no longer lets users toggle off through normal settings.
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As Apple bundles more AI features directly into the OS without easy opt-out controls, third-party utilities like Purge may fill a gap for users who want more control over their storage and system defaults. The tool's ability to remove leftover app data also highlights a longstanding gap in macOS's built-in uninstall process, which can leave files behind when apps are deleted via Finder.
- Purge is free and scans Macs for caches, unused screensavers, large files, and leftover app data.
- Its uninstaller tool removes all associated files, unlike Finder's default app deletion.
- It includes a workaround to disable Apple Intelligence, which macOS 27 no longer allows via standard settings.
SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD — If you've cleaned up your Mac with Purge and still need more breathing room, an external SSD gives you fast, reliable extra storage for large files and backups. It's a great complement to decluttering software, letting you offload big media libraries without sacrificing performance.
See SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: wired.com — Justin Pot, 2026-11-07
Published there as: “This Totally Free App Can Free Up Space on Your Mac”
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