Updated Oct 2026
Super Duper Space FAQ
Safety
Is Super Duper Space safe to use?
It only deletes files you pick. You review attachments and choose what goes. Deleted files move to a holding area first (the app calls this Ready to delete), so you can put them back. Those files still use disk space until you delete them for good. Nothing is removed in the background, and it does not delete macOS system files.
What does it delete?
Messages attachments you select: photos, videos, and other files stored in ~/Library/Messages/Attachments. It does not delete your conversations or message text. The Messages database is opened read-only. Removing a local file can leave that attachment missing in the conversation on this Mac. You can also confirm a few other cleanups: some developer leftovers, unzipped downloads, and personal-file copies.
Can I undo a delete?
Yes, until you delete for good. Files in the holding area can be put back, and they still use disk space there. After you delete them for good, the app checks Messages and reports how many of those files are gone. The free space macOS shows can differ from the file sizes.
Which attachments are safest to delete?
Start with Already in Photos. The app marks that group Safest. It is photos and videos that match something in the Photos library on this Mac, either an exact copy or a file that looks the same. The check uses Photos data on this Mac and does not download originals from iCloud.
iPhone and iCloud
Will deleting in Super Duper Space delete messages from my iPhone?
The app removes the copies on your Mac. It tells you that your other devices keep their copies, and that Messages in iCloud may download a file again later. Apple says deleting a message in the Messages app on a Mac with Messages in iCloud on deletes it everywhere (Apple Support). If you want to be certain your iPhone keeps everything, turn off Messages in iCloud on the Mac only first. Read the full guide. We’re still testing this with Messages in iCloud turned on.
Why might deleted attachments come back?
If Messages in iCloud is on, your Mac can download an attachment again when you open that conversation, as long as the file still exists in iCloud. The app’s check after a permanent delete reports files that show up again at the original path.
Does it change my iCloud settings?
No. It does not sign in to iCloud or change any Messages settings.
Privacy and permissions
Does it need Full Disk Access? Why?
Yes. macOS protects the Messages folder, and apps can’t read it without Full Disk Access. Super Duper Space asks for it so it can measure and list your attachments. You can turn it off any time in System Settings > Privacy & Security > Full Disk Access.
Does anything leave my Mac?
Scanning, Photos checks, and Messages deletion stay on your Mac. There is no account and no analytics. The app does not upload your scan or message content. If you confirm a cleanup that runs npm, pnpm, or Homebrew, that tool can contact its own servers. See the privacy page.
Does it read my messages?
It reads attachment filenames, dates, and conversation labels from the Messages database, and it does that without reading message text. It measures attachment files to group them. It does not send message content anywhere.
Storage
What does it show about System Data?
It groups the files it can measure by app, and it tells you what each group is. Those sizes differ from the System Data number in System Settings. Most of that list is an explanation. See What is System Data on Mac.
Is it a Mac cleaner like CleanMyMac?
It is built for Messages attachments. It can also remove some developer leftovers, unzipped downloads, and personal-file copies you confirm. It does not uninstall apps or scan for malware. Compare the two.
Getting it
How much does it cost?
Joining the private beta is free. A price for a later release is not set.
What Mac do I need?
macOS 14 or later.
Do I need an account?
No.
How do I get it?
Join the private beta with your email on the home page. The form stores your address. There is no confirmation email. We use the address to email you when there is something to try.
Related: Messages storage, System Data, CleanMyMac alternative, Privacy.