how to delete downloaded voices on mac

Daniel Parker

2 min read

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27-01-2025

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Are you running low on storage space on your Mac? Downloaded voices for text-to-speech or other applications might be taking up more room than you realize. This guide will show you how to easily delete those downloaded voices, freeing up valuable disk space. We'll cover several methods, ensuring you can find the solution that best fits your needs.

Locating Downloaded Voices on Your Mac

Before you can delete downloaded voices, you need to know where they're located. The exact location depends on the application using the voices. However, most voice data is stored within the system's library. Directly accessing and deleting files here is risky, so we'll focus on safer, more user-friendly methods.

Method 1: Using System Preferences (Recommended)

This is the easiest and safest method for managing downloaded voices.

1. Open System Preferences: Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner of your screen and select "System Preferences."
2. Access Text to Speech: Click on "Accessibility," then select "Text to Speech."
3. System Voice: You'll see a list of installed voices. Select the voice you wish to remove.
4. Remove the Voice: Click the minus (-) button below the list of voices. Confirm your choice when prompted.

This method elegantly removes voices through the operating system's interface, avoiding potential file system issues. It's the recommended approach for most users.

Method 2: Identifying Voices Through Applications (For Specific Apps)

Some applications, like speech synthesis software or digital audio workstations, manage their voice libraries independently.

1. Locate the Application: Open the application that uses the downloaded voices.
2. Check Preferences or Settings: Look for a section related to "Voices," "Speech," or "Audio." The exact menu name will vary based on the application.
3. Manage Voices: The application should provide an option to manage or delete installed voices. Follow the on-screen instructions provided by the software.

This method is essential when dealing with voices downloaded through specific apps that don't integrate with the standard macOS voice system. Always consult the application's documentation if you encounter difficulties.

Method 3: Manual Removal (Advanced Users Only - Proceed with Caution!)

This method requires navigating the file system directly. Incorrectly deleting files can damage your system, so only proceed if you're comfortable with advanced macOS operations.

1. Open Finder: Launch the Finder application.
2. Navigate to Library: Press Shift + Command + . (period) to show hidden files. Then, navigate to /Library/Speech/.
3. Identify Voice Files: Look for folders named after the voices you want to remove. These folders often contain large files.
4. Delete the Folder: Drag the folder to the Trash. Empty the Trash afterward.

This method is generally unnecessary for most users, as the system preferences method provides a safer and simpler solution. It's best reserved for situations where other methods fail, and you have a deep understanding of your Mac's file system.

Troubleshooting and Tips

• Restart Your Mac: After removing voices, restarting your Mac can help ensure the changes take effect completely.
• Check Disk Space: Use the "About This Mac" utility to verify that the space has been freed up after removing the voices.
• Reinstall Voices: If you accidentally delete a voice you need, you may be able to reinstall it through the same application or system preferences you used to remove it. However, this may depend on whether the voices are available for re-download.

By following these steps, you can effectively manage and delete downloaded voices on your Mac, reclaiming valuable storage space and optimizing your system's performance. Remember to choose the method that best suits your comfort level and technical expertise. If in doubt, always opt for the safer, system-preference-based method.