macOS 27 forces local AI model downloads, real storage use far exceeds Apple's stated cap
On-device AI is now a non-removable system component on Macs, and users bear the storage cost; the discrepancy awaits Apple's explanation.
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macOS 27 automatically downloads the Apple Intelligence local model to every Mac when it next connects to the internet, and Apple has removed the switch to turn Apple Intelligence off.
Apple's official figure is up to 14GB of local storage for M3-and-later Macs with at least 12GB of unified memory, and up to 8GB for other supported models. MacRumors measured 20.67GB on an M4 Pro Mac mini, Ars Technica recorded 22.42GB on an M3 MacBook Air, and one user's screenshot showed 30.16GB.
Even an M1 MacBook Air below the top model's hardware requirements showed about 14GB, above its 8GB cap. Apple's support documentation does not explain the discrepancy, and the measurements come from media tests and user reports, not official confirmation.