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How to free up storage space on your phone or PC

Before you delete photos or pay for more space, let the phone or PC clear out what you don't use. iPhone can offload apps you never open and Windows 11 can empty temp files on a schedule. Both are built in.

  1. How to free up storage on iPhone

    Go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage and tap Enable next to Offload Unused Apps. The iPhone removes apps you haven't opened in a while but keeps their documents and data. Tap an offloaded app's icon later and it downloads again.

    Use it when: Use it when the Storage Full warning pops up and you're about to start deleting photos to make room.

    iPhone · Easy · 2 min · Full steps

  2. How to free up disk space automatically in Windows 11

    Turn on Storage Sense in Settings > System > Storage. It deletes temporary files and empties the recycle bin on a schedule. Leave the Downloads cleanup off unless that folder is only junk.

    Use it when: Temporary files and a recycle bin full of old deletes stop being a manual chore.

    Windows · Moderate · 3 min · Full steps

Questions people ask

What's the difference between Offload App and Delete App?

Offload removes the app and keeps its documents and data. Delete removes both. If there's any chance you'll use the app again, offload it.

Is Storage Sense safe?

Yes for temporary files and the recycle bin. The Downloads option is the one that can delete things you meant to keep.

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