Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Start with Settings > General > iPhone Storage. Check the recommendations and the largest categories or apps, then remove replaceable downloads and files first. Offload apps when you want to keep their documents and data; delete them only when you no longer need that associated data. For photos, choose between optimized iCloud syncing and exporting originals to external storage—those are different workflows, and deleting synced photos can remove them from your other devices too.

1. Find what is using space before deleting anything

Open Settings > General > iPhone Storage. The screen shows available capacity, app-by-app usage and, depending on your device, recommendations. Start with the largest items on your own phone rather than assuming one category is always the culprit. Apple notes that cached and temporary data may not be fully represented as user-deletable app data, so a category total is not necessarily a list of things you can remove directly. Apple’s iPhone and iPad storage guide explains this screen.

2. Remove replaceable downloads and local files

Downloaded media and files are usually sensible early targets because you can often watch, stream, download, or copy them again. Review downloaded films and shows, podcasts, music, and files saved locally. Apple specifically lists downloaded videos and Files documents among the content to review; the amount of space you recover depends on what is stored on your iPhone. Apple’s iPhone guide to freeing storage lists common cleanup options.

  • Remove a video after watching it if you can stream it again or do not need it offline.
  • In Files, check locally stored documents and downloads. Copy anything you want to keep before removing its local copy.
  • Check media apps for their own download controls. Do not assume clearing an app’s cache will recover a particular amount of space.

3. Offload or delete apps according to whether their data matters

These choices are not interchangeable. Apple describes offloading this way: “Offload the app, which frees up storage used by the app, but keeps its documents and data.” Deleting an app removes the app and its related data. Apple’s storage instructions explain the distinction.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
#1 Best Overall
Yojaro 4Pack Silicone Suction Phone Case Mount, Silicon Adhesive Smartphones Stand Sticky, Hands-Free Phone Accessories Holder for Selfies and Videos (Black & White & Translucent & Light Pink)
  • 【Strong Adsorption】The inspiration of the silicone phone suction case comes from the adhesive force of the octopus. Each suction cup phone mount is 3.15 inches long and 2.17 inches wide, with 24 independent suction cups providing a stronger and more stable suction force, so you don't have to worry about your phone falling during use.
  • 【Back of Phone Suction Grip】Remove the adhesive film on the phone suction cup and stick it on the phone case. You can then fix the phone on any smooth surface, which is very convenient. (The phone suction cup cannot be removed and reused after being attached to the phone case. It is recommended to attach it to a regular phone case, not a valuable one.)
  • 【Widely Used】Our non-slip silicone phone sticky grip mount attaches to almost any flat phone case and make it compatible with common mobile phones such as iPhone and Android.You can shoot, watch videos or video calls in the kitchen, gym, dance studio, bathroom and other places.
  • 【Capture the Wonderful Picture】Whether you are a TikTok creator or just like to share videos and photos, this phone suction cup can help you hands-free capture wonderful videos and photos for sharing with friends.
  • 【Note】You can fix the phone suction cup on a smooth surface such as a mirror or glass. If necessary, wipe the suction cup with a damp cloth to obtain stronger suction. Before releasing your hand, make sure the phone is firmly fixed. (Not applicable to rough walls, wooden surfaces, and other uneven surfaces)
Choice Effect on iPhone storage What happens to app data Best fit
Offload app Removes the app itself to free the storage it uses. Documents and data are kept; you can reinstall the app. The app is taking space, but you may need its data later.
Delete app Removes the app and related data. App-specific data may be lost. You no longer need the app or its associated data.
Delete a downloaded video or file Frees space used by that local download. You may need to download it again or restore it from a copy. You have finished with it, can replace it, or have safely copied it.

To enable automatic offloading, Apple documents Settings > Apps > App Store > Offload Unused Apps. Menu paths can differ by iOS release. Apple’s guide to managing storage on an iPhone or iPad covers this option.

4. Review large Messages attachments carefully

Messages and their attachments can use storage. When Messages in iCloud is enabled, they also use iCloud storage; deleting synced messages or attachments can affect other devices on the same account. Make a copy of anything you want to retain before removing it. The recoverable amount varies by device and account. Apple’s storage guide explains how to review and manage Messages attachments.

Rank #2
Apple EarPods Headphones with USB-C Plug, Wired Ear Buds with Built-in Remote to Control Music, Phone Calls, and Volume
  • SUPERIOR COMFORT — Unlike traditional circular ear buds, the design of EarPods is defined by the geometry of the ear. Which makes them more comfortable for more people than any other ear bud–style headphones.
  • HIGH-QUALITY AUDIO — The speakers inside EarPods have been engineered to maximize sound output and minimize sound loss, which means you get high-quality audio.
  • BUILT-IN REMOTE — EarPods with USB-C plug also include a built-in remote that lets you adjust the volume, control the playback of music and video, and answer or end calls with a pinch of the cord.
  • COMPATIBILITY — Works with all devices that have a USB-C port.
  • INTEGRATED MICROPHONE — A built-in microphone precisely captures your voice while you’re on the phone, taking a FaceTime call, or summoning Siri — so you’re always heard loud and clear.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

5. Choose how to handle photos and videos

Photos often matter more than replaceable downloads, so decide whether you want a synchronized library or an independent copy before deleting originals.

Use iCloud Photos with Optimize iPhone Storage

With iCloud Photos and Optimize iPhone Storage, full-resolution originals are stored in iCloud while space-saving versions are kept on the iPhone as needed. This can reduce local photo-library storage, but the library uses iCloud capacity. Check that you have enough iCloud space before relying on it. Apple explains how to manage photo storage.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Rank #3
PopSockets Adhesive Phone Grip, Holder- Black
  • Secure Hold: Our PopSockets adhesive phone grip gives your cell phone a secure, comfortable hold in hand to help prevent drops while texting, taking photos, or scrolling on the go. Designed to stick firmly to most phone cases and devices.
  • Hands-Free Made Easy: Easily turn your PopSocket into a phone stand to prop up your phone anywhere, perfect for watching videos, video calls, or following recipes. A must-have phone holder that keeps your device secure and ready for anything.
  • Compatibility: Works with all phones, tablets, and Kindles. Sticks best to smooth, hard plastic cases and may not adhere to silicone or textured cases. Easily swap your PopTop to change up your style.
  • Black PopSockets: Simple, refined, and endlessly versatile. A timeless essential for any phone.
  • Travel Must-Have for People On the Go: A must-have travel accessory for flights, flying, airports, air travel, airplanes, planes, international trips, cruises, and long travel days. Key gadget for your airport haul, travel accessories and must-haves.

iCloud Photos is synchronization, not a separate archive: deleting a photo or video on one signed-in device deletes it from other devices using the same Apple Account. Copy items you want to preserve before deleting them. Apple’s iCloud storage guide describes this behavior.

Export originals to external storage

You can export selected photos and videos to a connected drive or memory card. Match the device to your iPhone’s Lightning or USB-C connection; an adapter may be needed. The drive must use a supported format and have one data partition, and some hard drives require external power. Apple lists supported formats and connection requirements in its external storage device guide.

Rank #4
360° Rotating Stainless Steel Phone Tether Tab (Silvery 3-Pack) - Universal for iPhone & Other Phones (Fits Wristbands/Necklaces/Crossbody Straps)
  • [360 ° Flexible Rotation Design] Comes with a rotatable lanyard ring that supports 360 ° free rotation, effectively solving the problem of twisted and tangled lanyards
  • [Wide compatibility] The ultra-thin 0.02-inch design does not block the charging port at all, and both wired and wireless charging can be used directly without removing the pad. Compatible with most smartphones such as iPhone, compatible with various wristbands, lanyards, crossbody straps, and keychains
  • [Durable and Portable Material] Premium rust-resistant stainless steel material with good flexibility, which not only avoids scratching the phone case, but also has excellent anti rust and anti fading performance
  • [Multi scenario Practical] Paired with a lanyard or wristband, hands-free use can be achieved. The phone is within reach and not easily dropped, ideal for daily commuting and outdoor activities. Suitable for full coverage phone cases, does not support half coverage phone cases
  • [Quality Service] If you find any damage or other issues with the product upon receipt, please contact us immediately. We will handle it quickly
  1. Connect the storage device to the iPhone.
  2. In Photos, select the items to export, then tap Share > Export Unmodified Original.
  3. Choose the connected device under Locations, then tap Save.
  4. Open the destination and verify the exported files before deleting local copies.

Export Unmodified Original exports edited photos and videos as the unmodified original. Locked items in the Hidden album are not transferred using this action. See Apple’s photo export instructions.

Best Value
Anteel 2 Pack Silicone Suction Cup Phone Case Mount Double Sided, Hands-Free Silicon Phone Grip with Higher Suction Power for Selfies and Videos, Non Slip Phone Accessories (LightPink&White)
  • 【PKYAA Double Sided Silicone Suction Phone Case Mount】PKYAA With Double Sided 40 Strong and Reliable individual suction cups, PKYAA provides a thicken and upgraded universal silicon suction mount for your phone.
  • 【Friendly to Content Creators】If you are a content creator or an online influencer, you can create videos anywhere with this suction mount completely hands free with this silicone cell phone mount for cases.
  • 【HANDS-FREE & Adhere to Mirrors】This Double Sided silicone suction phone case mount allows you to stick your phone to the mirror easily. No longer holding your phone in one hand to watch video tutorials while making up.
  • 【Strong Grip on the Smooth Surface】You can easily hang your phone anywhere with a smooth surface. All you do is you clean off your phone and smooth surface. It is STURDY and it not only sticks to mirrors, it also sticks to windows, it sticks to refrigerators, tiles and other clean, flat surfaces.
  • 【Press Down Firmly Every 30 Minutes】Use your palm or fingers to press the phone down firmly and check it's secure before letting go. Apply even pressure for a few seconds to allow the suction cup to adhere properly. To maintain the grip and prevent accidental falls, it's a good practice to periodically reapply pressure to the suction cup.

Which cleanup option fits?

Option Local-space result Key consideration
Offload an app Frees space used by the app itself. Keeps documents and data.
Delete an app Removes the app and related data. App-specific data may be lost.
Remove a downloaded file or video Frees space used by that local download. Keep a copy or expect to download it again if needed.
iCloud Photos with Optimize Storage Can reduce local photo copies. Uses iCloud capacity, and deletions sync across devices.
Export to external storage Lets you move exported originals off the iPhone after verifying them. Check connector, drive format, power and export workflow compatibility.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.