The Apple macOS Blog

What are these relocated items on your Mac?

After updating your Mac, you might notice a new folder on your Desktop called "Relocated Items." Don't worry; this is a normal part of the update process. Let's explore what this folder is and how to handle it.

When you update your Mac's operating system, Apple reviews all your files to ensure they're compatible with the new version. Some files might not fit well with the update, so Apple moves them to a special folder called "Relocated Items."

The folder you see on your Desktop is actually a shortcut. The real folder is hidden away on your hard drive in the Users > Shared > Relocated Items directory.

What's inside this "Relocated Items" folder?

If you open the Relocated Items folder, you'll find:

1. Files that didn't fit with the new system update
2. Modified data that Apple wasn't sure how to handle
3. A PDF file explaining more about the moved items

Is it safe to remove relocated items?

Before deleting anything, it's a good idea to check the contents of the folder. Look for any files that seem important to you or your apps. If you spot something crucial, consider keeping it.

If you've noticed that some of your apps stopped working after the update, the Relocated Items folder might contain data they need. In this case, check if those apps have updates available.

Generally, if you don't recognize anything important in the folder, it's safe to delete it.

How to delete the Relocated Items folder

Deleting the shortcut on your Desktop won't remove the actual files. Here's how to delete the real folder:

1. Open Finder
2. Go to your Mac's hard drive
3. Navigate to Users > Shared > Relocated Items
4. Right-click on the folder and select "Move to Trash"
5. Empty your Trash

Keep your Mac running smoothly

Removing unnecessary files like those in the Relocated Items folder is just one way to keep your Mac in top shape. Here are some more tips:

1. Regularly clean out your Downloads folder
2. Keep your Mac updated to the latest macOS version
3. Tidy up your Desktop
4. Reduce the number of apps that automatically start when you turn on your Mac
5. Use reputable Mac cleaning tools to automate the process

By doing these things you can ensure your Mac stays fast and efficient, even after multiple system updates.

The Relocated Items folder may appear again after future updates but at least now you know what it is and how to handle it.

❤️ Maria