The Virtual Assistant Icon
macOS integrates Siri deeply into the operating system, allowing you to use voice commands to search for files, set reminders, or check the weather. To ensure she is always accessible, Apple places a colorful, circular Siri icon directly in your menu bar (in the top right corner of the screen, next to the clock and Control Center). Clicking this icon instantly activates the assistant.
However, many Mac users never use Siri on their computers, preferring to use keyboard shortcuts like Spotlight (Cmd + Space) for searching, or relying entirely on their iPhone or HomePod for voice assistance. If you do not actively use the macOS version of Siri, this icon is simply wasting valuable horizontal space in your menu bar. If you prefer a cleaner, minimalist desktop environment, you should remove this redundant button.
How to Hide the Siri Icon
You can remove Siri from the menu bar via your System Settings.
- Click the Apple Logo in the top-left corner of your screen and select System Settings… (or System Preferences).
- In the left-hand sidebar, click on Control Center.
- Scroll down through the right-hand pane until you find the Menu Bar Only section (or simply look for Siri in older versions).
- Locate the entry for Siri.
- Next to Siri, you will see a dropdown menu (or a toggle switch).
- Click the dropdown menu and change it from “Show in Menu Bar” to Don’t Show in Menu Bar (or turn the toggle Off).
The Siri icon will instantly vanish from your menu bar, freeing up space. (Note: This only hides the icon; you can still activate Siri using a keyboard shortcut if you have one configured, or by saying “Hey Siri” if voice activation is enabled.)