6 Things That Are Taking Up Way Too Much Space on Your iPhone

Is your iPhone constantly nagging you about low storage? Dreading the inevitable data purge? Don't worry, freeing up space is easier than you think! Most storage hogs are easily identifiable and manageable. Let's dive in.

1. Messages: Attachments Are the Culprit

Your iPhone diligently saves every message and attachment (except short-lived voice messages). While text messages are negligible, attachments can accumulate quickly.

Check your storage usage: Settings > General > iPhone Storage. Messages will be shown graphically, but scroll down for the exact size.

To reclaim space, tap "Messages" and use "Review Large Attachments" or browse the categories below. Deleting large attachments is a great starting point, and if you use iCloud Messages, they're not permanently deleted—only removed from your device.

2. Unused Apps and Games: Hidden Space Wasters

If iCloud is already doing its job, unused apps are likely major space consumers. Apple's App Library hides them, making it easy to forget what's installed.

Use "Offload Unused Apps" (Settings > General > iPhone Storage) for a quick solution. This removes apps but keeps your data, leaving App Store shortcuts until you reinstall.

Alternatively, manually review the app list (sorted by size or last used date) and delete what you don't need. Swipe left to delete, or tap "Size" to sort by usage.

Don't forget to check your App Library (swipe left on your home screen) for forgotten apps, especially game categories.

3. Photos and Videos: Embrace iCloud Photo Library

Unless you're fully committed to iCloud, your photos and videos are probably taking up a lot of space. Deleting precious memories shouldn't be necessary!

iCloud Photo Library is the solution (subscription required). Enable it in Settings > Your Name > iCloud > iCloud Photos. Make sure "Optimize iPhone Storage" is also on.

This syncs your library to the cloud, removing local copies to save space. They're downloaded on demand. A good internet connection is essential.

4. Offline Media (Podcasts, Music, Streaming Shows): Manage Downloads

Podcasts, music, and downloaded shows from services like Apple Music, Spotify, Netflix, and Apple TV can consume significant storage.

Apple Podcasts' automatic downloads can be a big culprit. Adjust this in Settings > Apps > Podcasts > Automatically Download.

Check storage usage for Apple Podcasts and Apple Music under Settings > General > iPhone Storage. For third-party apps, the size is listed in iPhone Storage. Delete downloads within each app (often via a long press or swipe). Deleting the apps entirely will remove downloaded content.

5. Temporary Files: App Data Bloat

Some apps, especially social media (Instagram, TikTok), create excessive temporary files.

The only fix is complete deletion and reinstallation. Check Settings > General > iPhone Storage to identify offenders. Don't offload; delete them completely.

Clear Safari's cache in Settings > Apps > Safari > Clear History and Website Data. Other browsers offer similar options.

6. Pending iOS Updates: Download Hogs

Large iOS updates can consume gigabytes of space. If you have automatic downloads enabled and delay updates, this can be a significant issue.

Go to Settings > General > Software Update and install any pending updates. The download will be removed afterward.

The Bottom Line: iCloud or More Storage?

If you're already paying for iCloud, offloading data is a great strategy. It makes your data accessible across devices. However, consider the cost: doubling your iPhone's storage is expensive, while iCloud storage offers a more affordable, cross-device solution. Ultimately, Apple should consider increasing base storage on all iPhones.

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