How to free up space on iPhone

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting.

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To free up space on your iPhone, you can delete unused apps, clear cache, manage photos and videos, and utilize iCloud storage. These methods can help you reclaim valuable storage space effectively.

Beginner/Intermediate⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before you start freeing up space on your iPhone, ensure you meet the following requirements.
  • •An iPhone running iOS 12 or later.
  • •Sufficient battery charge or connected to a power source.
  • •Wi-Fi connection for downloading apps or updates.
  • •Important data should be backed up to iCloud or iTunes.

Method 1: Manage Storage Settings

This method allows you to see what is taking up space and manage it effectively.
  • •Step 1: Open the 'Settings' app on your iPhone.
  • •Step 2: Scroll down and tap on 'General'.
  • •Step 3: Tap on 'iPhone Storage'. You will see a list of apps and the space they occupy.
  • •Step 4: Tap on an app to see more details and options to delete or offload it.
  • •Step 5: To verify it worked, check the storage space available at the top of the 'iPhone Storage' screen.
  • •Step 6: If it doesn't work, ensure that you have the latest iOS version by going to 'Settings' > 'General' > 'Software Update'.

For iOS 15 and later

iOS 15 introduced new features for storage management.
  • •Step 1: In 'iPhone Storage', tap 'Recommendations' for tips on optimizing storage.
  • •Step 2: Enable 'Optimize Photos' to save space by storing full-resolution photos in iCloud.

For iOS 14 and earlier

Older versions may have fewer optimization options.
  • •Step 1: In 'iPhone Storage', manually review and delete apps that you rarely use.
  • •Step 2: Consider using third-party apps for storage management.

Method 2: Clear Cache and Unused Data

Clearing cache can free up significant space, especially for apps like Safari.
  • •Step 1: Open 'Settings' and scroll down to 'Safari'.
  • •Step 2: Tap 'Clear History and Website Data'. Confirm the action.
  • •Step 3: For other apps, check in 'Settings' > [App Name] for options to clear cache.
  • •Step 4: Verify by checking the storage again in 'Settings' > 'General' > 'iPhone Storage'.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while trying to free up space, consider the following solutions.
  • •Error: 'Not Enough Storage' - Solution: Delete large apps or media files.
  • •Issue: Unable to delete an app - Fix: Restart your iPhone and try again.
  • •Problem: Photos not uploading to iCloud - Workaround: Ensure you have enough iCloud storage and a stable internet connection.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

For power users, here are some additional tips to manage storage more efficiently.
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Use 'Settings' > 'General' > 'iPhone Storage' to quickly access storage management.
  • •Hidden feature: Enable 'Low Data Mode' in 'Settings' > 'Cellular' to reduce data usage and storage.
  • •Third-party tool: Consider using apps like 'PhoneClean' for deeper cleaning options.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

Regularly managing your storage can prevent issues and improve performance.