Running low on storage? Ditch these iPhone apps

Ditch storage‑hungry apps

Running out of iPhone storage is a common issue, especially if you’re using a base model. Many apps pre-installed or downloaded over time take up space even when unused. Some apps store large amounts of cache or offline files.

Removing these can instantly free up valuable space. With iCloud and app reinstallation available, deleting apps is safe and reversible. Let’s explore what to remove first.

Delete GarageBand when idle

GarageBand comes pre-installed on many iPhones and is great for music creation. However, it typically uses around 1.7 GB, but may vary widely depending on installed sound libraries or instrument packs.

If you never use it, you can delete it without losing data. It can be redownloaded anytime from the App Store. Removing it gives an immediate storage boost. This is especially useful for smaller-capacity iPhones.

Remove iMovie if unused

iMovie is another Apple app that takes up considerable space. It uses about 600 to 700 megabytes even if you don’t have any projects. If you are not editing videos on your phone, you can safely delete it.

Your projects and data will be stored in iCloud or your backup if needed. Reinstalling is always an option. Keep it only if it’s regularly used.

Uninstall Keynote if unnecessary

Keynote is Apple’s presentation app, and it consumes around 540 MB (as per the App Store listing at 541.5 MB). For users who don’t need to create or view presentations, it serves no daily purpose.

Like other Apple apps, it can be removed and later restored without any issue. This makes it an easy target for freeing up storage. Check if you’ve opened it in the last year. If not, it’s safe to delete.

Delete Pages and Numbers

Pages and Numbers are Apple’s alternatives to Word and Excel. Each of these uses around 500 megabytes of space. Most users already have other productivity apps or rarely need document editing on their phones.

If that’s the case, these apps just take up room. You can always reinstall them later. Delete them if you don’t use them regularly.

Remove pre‑installed “junk” apps

Apps like Compass, Stocks, Tips, and Watch may never be opened, but still take up space. While small individually, together they can consume a surprising amount. If you’re not using Apple’s Home app or Books, they can go too.

All can be reinstalled from the App Store at any time. Deleting unused stock apps is safe and reversible. It’s a simple cleanup step.

Manage Photos and videos

Photos and videos are usually the biggest storage users on iPhones. Especially when shooting in 4K or keeping Live Photos, the file sizes quickly grow.

Review your media in the Photos app and delete what’s no longer needed. Backing up to iCloud or Google Photos can help reduce local use. You can also transfer files to a computer. This clears gigabytes quickly.

Enable optimize‑storage

iPhones offer an option called Optimize iPhone Storage under iCloud Photos. When enabled, full-resolution images and videos are stored in iCloud.

Your device will then keep only low-res previews locally. This feature saves massive space, especially for users with large photo libraries. You still access everything when connected to Wi-Fi. It’s an essential setting to enable.

Clean up message attachments

iMessage stores all photos, videos, audio, and GIFs sent in conversations. Over time, these add up and silently take space. You can view and delete large attachments under iPhone Storage settings.

Deleting just a few group threads can free hundreds of megabytes. Use auto-delete for messages older than 1 year if needed. It’s a quick way to regain storage.

Delete old messages

Keeping years of text messages may not be necessary. Old threads with photos or videos take up more room than expected. Go to Settings > Messages and set messages to delete after 30 days or 1 year.

You can also manually delete older chats. If you want to save specific conversations, back them up first. This makes message storage more efficient.

Remove downloaded media

Streaming apps like Netflix, Spotify, and YouTube allow offline downloads. While convenient, these files can take up gigabytes of space.

Open each app and check for stored downloads. Deleting them can free large amounts quickly. If you’re not traveling or offline often, it’s better to stream. Clear your offline content regularly to keep space free.

Offload unused apps

iPhones have an Offload App feature that deletes the app but keeps its data. It’s ideal for apps you rarely use but don’t want to lose progress in.

Go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage to see recommendations. Offloading can be done manually or automatically. It gives you storage relief without losing information. Reinstalling later restores everything.

Clear social‑media cache

Apps like TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram build up cached content over time. This includes videos, photos, and app data that may no longer be needed.

Reinstalling these apps or clearing their storage resets the cache. Doing so can save hundreds of megabytes. You won’t lose your account or settings. It’s a useful trick for frequent social media users.

Review Meta apps usage

Meta apps like Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram hold a lot of hidden data. They can use up to 300 megabytes just in cached media.

You can see their storage use under iPhone Storage settings. Clear chats or media from within the app if possible. If needed, uninstalling and reinstalling clears all cache. This is often necessary for heavy users.

Clear Safari cache

Browsing the internet adds up cached files over time. Safari stores website data, cookies, and temporary files that can be removed. Go to Settings > Safari and tap Clear History and Website Data.

This action won’t affect your bookmarks or passwords. It’s a fast way to reclaim some space. Do this regularly for the best results.

Tired of the same old posts? Explore what cleaner social media feeds are. Here’s how to reset your algorithm.

Watch “Other” system storage

The “Other” or “System Data” section in iPhone storage is often confusing. It includes app caches, Siri data, logs, and temporary files.

You can reduce it by deleting and reinstalling large apps. Avoid letting apps build up cached content for too long. A device restart can sometimes lower this category. Keep an eye on it if storage is tight.

Also, check if your Apple AI is taking over your storage.

Was this guide helpful in identifying what to remove from your iPhone? Let us know if you’d like more storage tips.

Read More From This Brand:

• This New iPhone Feature Could Put You at Risk
• iPhone settings that can quietly save you from hackers
• iPhone accessibility settings that make everyday tasks way simpler

Don’t forget to follow us for more exclusive content right here on MSN.

If you like this story, you’ll LOVE our Free email newsletter. Join today and be the first to receive stories like these.

This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.