7 simple tips on how to get more iPhone storage

Running out of iPhone storage always seems to happen at the worst possible time—just as you're about to snap the perfect photo, update your iOS, or download a new app. But don’t worry, you don’t always need to buy a brand-new device to fix the problem. We’ve gathered 7 simple yet smart tips to help you free up iPhone storage and keep your device running smoothly.

1. Use iCloud to offload photos and videos

Photos and videos are among the biggest storage hogs. By using iCloud Photos, you can store full-resolution media in the cloud and keep only lightweight versions on your phone.

Tip: Go to Settings > Photos > Optimise iPhone Storage to enable this space-saving feature.

Not a fan of iCloud? Google Photos and Amazon Photos are solid alternatives for backing up media without eating into your device’s space.

2. Delete unused apps and offload the rest

Chances are, there are several apps you haven’t touched in months, and now is the time to delete them! For the apps you occasionally use, iOS has a handy “Offload Unused Apps” feature that automatically removes apps but keeps their data.

Tip: Go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage to see what’s taking up space and manage your apps.

3. Clear your Safari cache and old messages

Over time, cached website data and old texts can eat up space. Clear them out regularly:

Safari: Settings > Safari > Clear History and Website Data

Messages: Settings > Messages > Keep Messages > 30 Days

This simple cleanup can free up gigabytes—especially if you're a heavy texter or web browser.

4. Empty the ‘recently deleted’ folder

After deleting photos, they still hang around for 30 days in the “Recently Deleted” album. Be sure to empty it to reclaim iPhone storage instantly.

Open Photos > Albums > Recently Deleted and delete everything permanently.

5. Manage downloads from Netflix, Spotify and podcasts

Apps like Netflix, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts can quietly hoard storage through offline downloads. Check these apps regularly and delete old content you’ve already watched or listened to.

6. Turn off HDR and delete duplicate photos

HDR photos can take up twice the space. You can disable this in:

Settings > Camera > Keep Normal Photo (toggle off)

You can also use apps like Gemini Photos to hunt down and delete duplicates, screenshots and blurry shots—freeing up even more storage without losing anything important.

7. Back up and reset (as a last resort)

If all else fails, back up your iPhone and do a full reset. It’s a last-resort move, but it can make a dramatic difference.

Use iCloud or iTunes/Finder to back up your data first. Then go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone.

Resetting helps remove system junk and hidden files that regular cleanups can’t reach.

If you do end up needing a new iPhone, make sure you’re not overpaying—read our guide on ways to save money on your next iPhone for smart tips to upgrade without spending a fortune.

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