Self HelpBoise Computer Care

Phones

Phone storage full

Phone storage full? Free space safely on iPhone and Android: offload apps, large attachments, downloads, and photo backups done right.

Difficulty
Easy
Time
15-30 min
Steps
6
Updated

Sounds like this?

  • 'Storage almost full'
  • Can't take photos
  • Can't install updates
  • Apps crash

Step by step

  1. iPhone: Settings › General › iPhone Storage. Android: Settings › Storage (or Files by Google › Clean).
  2. Offload or delete apps you don't use. iPhone Offload App keeps its data.
  3. Clear large message attachments: iPhone, Settings › General › iPhone Storage › Messages › Review Large Attachments.
  4. Empty Recently Deleted in Photos (only after confirming your backup).
  5. Turn on Optimize iPhone Storage in iCloud Photos, or Free up space in Google Photos after backup completes.
  6. Delete downloaded podcasts, music, and streaming downloads.

Related error codes & messages

Quick answers

When should I stop and get professional help with "Phone storage full"?

Stop and get help if: Storage is full but nothing big shows up ('System Data' huge). A backup and restore may be needed. You're not sure your photos are backed up. Boise Computer Care can diagnose it for a $60 fee; call 208-996-3508.

How long does this fix take and how hard is it?

Plan on 15-30 min. Difficulty: Easy.

Is it safe to try this myself?

Mostly, if you follow these precautions: Before deleting photos, confirm they're in iCloud Photos, Google Photos, or on a computer, and that you can open them there.

Which error messages or codes does this guide cover?

Storage Almost Full, Insufficient storage available.

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