What is deleted_helper?

deleted_helper is a companion to deleted, the storage management daemon on macOS.

What is deleted_helper?

deleted_helper assists the deleted daemon with storage tasks. While deleted handles the main work of freeing up disc space, the helper carries out jobs that need different permissions or must run in a separate context.

What does deleted do?

The deleted system (including its helper) manages automatic storage cleanup:

• Emptying the Trash after 30 days (if turned on)
• Removing already-watched Apple TV content
• Clearing system caches when disc space is low
• Managing iCloud Drive's "Optimise Mac Storage" feature, which removes local copies of files safely stored in iCloud
• Freeing purgeable space when the system needs room

deleted_helper assists with these jobs, especially those that cross security boundaries.

When is it active?

It runs during storage cleanup, usually when disc space is getting low or during routine housekeeping. You are most likely to spot it when your Mac is short on storage.

Should you worry?

No. It is a standard macOS process that helps stop your disc from filling up. It works alongside deleted to manage storage.

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