iPhone5 min readUpdated · 05.11.2026.

How to Free Up Storage on iPhone

Find what uses your storage, offload unused apps and safely review photos and downloads.

The illustrations are original AppDrop artwork, not actual Apple interface screenshots.

Step by step

  1. Open Settings → General → iPhone Storage. Let the device calculate what is using your space.

  2. Review large apps. Offload App removes the app but keeps its documents and data; Delete App removes the app and its associated data.

  3. Check large videos, photos, downloaded files and offline streaming content. Back up anything important before deleting it.

  4. If you use iCloud Photos, verify syncing and consider Optimize iPhone Storage. Remember that syncing and a separate backup are not the same thing.

FAQ

Does offloading keep my documents?

Yes. Offloading in iPhone Storage frees the space used by the app and keeps its documents and data. Check that the app is still available before relying on a reinstall.

Official sourceApple Support ↗