macOS processes › Siri and intelligence
What is assistantd on Mac?
assistantd is the main background service for Siri on your Mac. It handles your requests, talks to Apple's servers when needed, and returns the answer to Siri.
What it does
When you ask Siri something, assistantd processes the request, works with other services for things like contacts and apps, and keeps track of Siri's settings. Some requests are handled on the Mac and others go to Apple.
Why it gets busy
- Using Siri frequently.
- Changing Siri's language or voice, which reloads its settings.
- Network problems that make requests retry.
Why is assistantd using so much CPU?
assistantd handles Siri requests. If it's busy when you're not using Siri, a settings change or network issue is often behind it, and turning Siri off removes most of its work.
Is it safe to quit?
macOS restarts it the next time Siri is needed.
How to calm it down
- If you don't use Siri, turn it off in System Settings › Apple Intelligence & Siri (or Siri).
- Restart your Mac if it stays busy after a settings change.
In SystemWatch
SystemWatch's History shows whether assistantd is busy only when you use Siri, which is normal, or in the background as well.
