remove backups of phones I no longer have

the backups folder does not distinguish what directory is to what device. And come on this OSX - iTunes used to do this fine from the app. The best answer I have is: the link you sent does not talk about going to apple->about-this-mac->system information->storage->manage->iOS Files then click the device and Delete

applecare rep explained it. the link you sent does not talk about going to apple->about-this-mac->system information->storage->manage->iOS Files then click the device and Delete

okay you've muddied the waters. Try not responding to questions if that is how you roll. It makes it difficult to troubleshoot when taken on red herrings and dead ends and navigating irrelevant information.

the original question and the title of this post clearly says "I dont own the device any longer"

please stop responding - you are not being helpful and wasting time and just being a nuisance at this point. Anyways I answered my own question. I suggest apple update their docs to be relevant and more accurate.

I cant find "under the General tab" in finder. come on Apple - you can do better than this.