> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://www.tella.com/docs/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Why do I see the low disk space warning on the Mac app?

> Why the Tella Mac app warns about low disk space while recording, and how to free up the space it needs.

When recording with the Tella Mac app, you may see a warning that your disk space is running low. Here's why this happens and how to fix it.

## Why does Tella need disk space?

When you record a video, Tella temporarily saves the video file to your Mac's local storage before uploading it to the cloud. Longer recordings and higher quality settings require more disk space.

## How much space do I need?

We recommend having at least **5-10 GB of free space** before recording. The exact amount depends on:

* Recording length

* Video quality settings

* Whether you're recording screen, camera, or both

## How to free up disk space

1. **Empty your trash**: Right-click the Trash icon in your Dock and select "Empty Trash"

2. **Delete old downloads**: Check your Downloads folder for files you no longer need

3. **Use storage management**: Go to Apple menu → About This Mac → Storage → Manage to see recommendations

## What happens when space runs out?

Current versions of the Tella Mac app protect the recording when storage is low:

* Tella warns you before recording and prevents the recording from starting when there isn't enough space.

* If space runs out during a recording, Tella stops it safely instead of continuing until the file becomes corrupted.

* The recording will be shorter than planned, but Tella keeps the part recorded before it stopped.

Free up space before starting again, especially before a long or high-resolution recording.

## Where does Tella store temporary files?

Tella stores temporary recording files in your Mac's standard temporary directory. These files are automatically cleaned up after your video uploads successfully.