If you no longer use the ChatGPT app on your MacBook or want to troubleshoot performance issues, uninstalling it properly is essential. Simply dragging the app to the Trash often leaves behind hidden files that clutter your system.
Below, we break down the process into easy steps to ensure a thorough cleanup.
Step 1: Close ChatGPT Completely

Why this matters: Running apps can’t be deleted.
- Click the ChatGPT icon in your Dock.
- If the app is open, press
Command + Q
or select Quit from the menu bar. - Check for background processes:
- Open Activity Monitor (Applications > Utilities).
- Search for “ChatGPT” and force-quit any active processes.
Step 2: Force Quit ChatGPT (If It’s Frozen)


For unresponsive apps:
- Click the Apple logo in the top-left corner.
- Select Force Quit from the dropdown menu.
- In the window, select ChatGPT and click Force Quit.
- Note: This step is only needed if the app isn’t closing normally.
Step 3: Move ChatGPT to Trash

Permanently delete the app:
- Open Finder and navigate to the Applications folder.
- Locate the ChatGPT app icon.
- Right-click (or
Control + Click
) and select Move to Trash.
- Alternatively, drag the app to the Trash icon in your Dock.
Step 4: Empty the Trash

Why this matters: Files stay in Trash until manually deleted.
- Right-click the Trash icon in your Dock.
- Select Empty Trash to permanently erase ChatGPT.
- Confirm the action if prompted.
Step 5: Delete Leftover Files (Advanced)
Hidden files to remove:
- Press
Command + Shift + G
in Finder. - Type
~/Library/
and press Go to access user library files. - Search these folders for ChatGPT remnants:
- Application Support: Look for a “ChatGPT” folder.
- Caches: Delete files in
Caches/com.openai.chatgpt
. - Preferences: Remove
com.openai.chatgpt.plist
. - Logs: Check
Logs/ChatGPT
for residual logs.
- Drag unwanted files to Trash and empty it again.
Step 6: Use a Cleaner Tool (Optional)
Automate the process:
- Download a free app like AppCleaner or CleanMyMac X.
- Open the tool and drag ChatGPT into its interface.
- The app will scan for associated files and delete them automatically.
Step 7: Restart Your MacBook
Ensure no lingering processes:
- Click the Apple logo and select Restart.
- This clears temporary files and resets system processes.
Uninstalling ChatGPT from your MacBook takes less than five minutes but ensures your device stays organized and efficient. By following these steps, you’ll eliminate the app and its hidden files, freeing up valuable space and reducing potential software conflicts. For future installations, consider using a cleanup tool to simplify the process.