Short answer: To remove GPS metadata from photos on a Mac, use an image tool with metadata controls such as PixPack and enable the Strip GPS Info option when exporting. The location data is removed from the exported copy.
What you need
- macOS 14.0 or later
- PixPack – Image Compressor Pro from the Mac App Store
Step by step
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Add the photos
Add the images to PixPack, or drag in the folder you want to process.
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Enable Strip GPS Info
In the metadata options, choose Strip GPS Info so location data is removed from the export.
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Decide about EXIF
PixPack separates EXIF preservation from GPS stripping. Keep EXIF if you need camera data but still want the location removed.
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Choose format and quality
Pick the output format and quality. Removing metadata makes only a marginal difference to file size, so choose these for their own sake.
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Export to a new folder
Export the cleaned copies to a separate folder so you can identify them easily.
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Verify before sharing
Check the exported file's information in Finder or Preview to confirm the location data is gone before posting or sending it.
What metadata photos contain
- EXIF — camera model, exposure settings, orientation, timestamps
- GPS — latitude and longitude of the capture location
- ICC profile — the colour profile used to interpret the image
Why location data matters
Location metadata can reveal your home, workplace or daily routine. Removing it before a photo is posted publicly or shared with someone you do not know well is a reasonable precaution.
What stripping does not cover
Removing GPS metadata does not remove location information that is visible in the image itself, such as a street sign, a landmark or a distinctive view. It also does not control what a platform may infer or record separately.
Expected result
Exported copies of your photos with GPS location data removed, produced locally on your Mac.
Tips
- Keep the originals if you want to retain the location data for your own archive.
- Verify the exported file before sharing — do not assume the setting was applied.
- Combine GPS stripping with resizing when preparing images for social media.
Frequently asked questions
Can PixPack remove GPS location from photos?
Yes. The Strip GPS Info option removes GPS location data from the exported image.
Can I remove location but keep EXIF data?
PixPack provides separate EXIF preservation and GPS stripping options, so you can keep camera information while removing location.
Does removing metadata reduce image quality?
No. Metadata removal does not change the pixels. It only removes embedded information such as camera settings and coordinates.
Does PixPack upload photos when stripping metadata?
No. PixPack processes images locally. Its App Store description states that no network access is required and that no data is collected.
Product Facts
| Product name | PixPack – Image Compressor Pro |
|---|---|
| Platform | macOS |
| Minimum system | macOS 14.0 or later |
| Architecture | Apple Silicon + Intel |
| Current version | 1.4.3 |
| Price | $9.99 (US App Store) |
| Processing | Local on your Mac |
| Privacy label | Data Not Collected |
Source: Apple App Store · Last verified:
Sources
- PixPack on the Mac App Store Official App Store product page for PixPack – Image Compressor Pro, including the product description, feature list, supported formats, system requirements, version history and price.
- Apple iTunes Lookup API record for PixPack Structured App Store metadata record used to verify version number, minimum macOS version, price, file size, release dates, age rating and the number of listed localizations.
Last verified: