Do you know that there are ways you can free storage space on your Android without deleting files or uninstalling apps? One of the frustrations that comes with using smartphones is the storage problem. No matter how big your phone’s storage capacity is, there will be a time when the system will alert you that your storage space is filling up.
One would wonder why the storage gets full while they use the same apps. Meanwhile, they have not downloaded any files as well. Well, the answer is that the data capacity of apps on your devices increases for several reasons. These reasons are often related to how apps manage and store data locally.
Reasons Apps Run Out Your Storage Space
- Cached Data
Apps store temporary files and data to speed up performance and reduce loading times. Over time, this cache can grow significantly. So when your apps and browser fetch pages faster, it’s mainly because of the cached data.
- User Data
This includes files like photos, videos, documents, and other user-generated content. All the content you put on social media apps and others takes space in your phone’s storage space. As you use the app more, this data accumulates.
- App Updates
New features, bug fixes, and improvement in-app updates can sometimes increase the app size. Additionally, old versions of app components may not always be deleted properly.
- Downloaded Content
Apps like streaming services; Netflix and Spotify, maps; Google Maps, and social media; Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, allow users to download content for offline use. This content takes up significant space.
- Logs and Debug Files
Some apps generate log files and error reports for debugging purposes. These files can accumulate over time if not managed properly. Briefly, logs are records of events that occur within an app.
- Temporary Files
This includes files that are downloaded or generated temporarily while the app is running. Examples are installation files, temporary images, and other transient data.
- Database Growth
Apps that use databases to store data can see these databases grow over time as more information is stored. Such apps are normally messaging apps and note-taking apps.
- Third-Party Libraries
Many apps use third-party libraries for analytics, advertising and other functionalities. Updates to these libraries can eventually add to the app’s overall size.
How to free storage space
The best way to free storage space on your Android without deleting files and uninstalling apps is to clear caches.
How to Clear Caches
Caches are high-speed data storage layers that store a subset of data, typically transient, so that future requests for that data can be served faster. Caches are found in the CPU, disk, browser, database, and on the web. Those locations are also the types.
To clear cache for individual apps;
- Open Settings
- Go to Apps; scroll down and select Apps or Applications
- Select the App; find and tap on the app whose cache you want to clear.
- Clear Cache; tap on Storage or Storage & Cache. Then, tap on clear cache.
Android does not have the feature to clear caches for all the apps at a go. To do that, you can use third-party apps like CCleaner, Files by Google and SD Maid.