The Tool Desk
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You can’t delete “Other” storage as one item on a Samsung Galaxy phone. Samsung says it includes app data, system files, cached data and temporary files. To reclaim space, review files in Device care, clear cache for selected apps, and move eligible personal files to removable storage if your model supports it. Avoid deleting unfamiliar folders or using Clear data unless you understand what that app may lose.
What is Other storage on your Galaxy phone?
“Other” is a category in the phone’s storage breakdown, not a single folder you can safely remove wholesale. Samsung says it can include app data, system files, cached data and temporary files. The exact breakdown and labels can vary by model and software version. Samsung’s Ireland support article, last updated 13 January 2023, puts it plainly: “The data contained in the ‘Other’ storage category cannot be deleted directly from your device.” Samsung: What is Other storage on your Galaxy phone.
That does not mean the space is untouchable. You can remove recognized personal files and reduce some app-related storage, but the amount reclaimed depends on what is stored on your phone. Samsung does not specify a typical amount of space these steps will free.
Compare the safe ways to free internal storage
| Option | What it affects | Main risk or limitation |
|---|---|---|
| Review files in Device care | Files you select, such as media or items shown in supported cleanup categories. | Deleting the wrong file removes content you may want. Emptying Trash can make its contents permanently unavailable. |
| Clear cache for an app | Temporary files associated with that app. | Usually the lower-impact first step, though the app may need to recreate cached files. |
| Clear data for an app | App-specific saved content and settings. | May reset the app, remove locally saved content or require setup again; use only when you understand the consequences. |
| Move files to a microSD card | Eligible personal files, such as photos, videos or other files, on a compatible phone. | Requires a model with removable-storage support and does not directly clear app or system data counted under Other. |
Samsung describes Device care storage review in its low storage space guidance, app cache and data controls in its Other storage article, and removable-storage transfers in its microSD guide.
#1 Best Overall
- PRIVACY DISPLAY: Automatically hide your screen from those beside you. The built-in privacy display can be preset¹ to turn on when receiving notifications, typing passwords, or using specific apps
- TYPE IT IN. TRANSFORM IT FAST: Enhance any shot in seconds on your smartphone by using Photo Assist² with Galaxy AI.³ Add objects, restore details, or apply new styles by simply typing or tapping
- NIGHTS, CAPTURED CLEARLY: From gigs to city lights, record and capture moments after dark with clarity using Nightography so your photos and videos stay crisp and clear on your Samsung Galaxy
- MAKE IT. EDIT IT. SHARE IT: Turn everyday moments into something personal with creative tools built right into your mobile phone, whether it’s a special contact photo, custom wallpaper, an invitation or more⁴
- HELP THAT KEEPS UP: Stay in the moment while Now Nudge with Galaxy AI helps you respond faster and stay organized with smart suggestions⁵ that appear exactly when you need them on your phone
Review storage with Device care first
Start with Samsung’s built-in storage view so you can see which files and categories are taking space before deleting anything. Depending on your phone’s software, the feature may be called Device care or Battery and device care, and the menu names can differ by model and region.
- Open Settings.
- Tap Device care or Battery and device care, then tap Storage. If those labels are not present, look for the storage or device-care option shown in Settings on your model.
- Review the categories and any cleanup suggestions. Select only files you recognize and intend to remove.
- Check Trash or Recycle bin contents before emptying it. Empty it only if you are ready to permanently remove those items.
Samsung’s Canada Device care guidance, updated 3 June 2026, notes that available features can vary by country, model and software version. Its Device care instructions and Samsung US’s low-storage guidance describe storage review and selecting files for removal.
Rank #2
- Please note, this device does not support E-SIM; This 4G model is compatible with all GSM networks worldwide outside of the U.S. In the US, ONLY compatible with T-Mobile and their MVNO's (Metro and Standup). It will NOT work with other CDMA carriers, and it is also not compatible with their MVNO (Visible, Xfinity Mobile, US Mobile, Cricket Wireless, etc).
- Compatibility with certain third-party devices and accessibility accessories, including some hearing aids, may vary depending on manufacturer support, Bluetooth protocols, software compatibility, and regional firmware limitations. For additional hearing aid compatibility information, please refer to Samsung’s official support documentation.
- Camera: 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 2 MP, f/2.4, (macro). Battery: 5000 mAh, non-removable | A power adapter is NOT included.
Clear an app’s cache before considering its data
If app-related storage is contributing to the total, clear cache for individual apps rather than trying to erase Other as a whole. The path below is typical; your device may use slightly different labels.
Recommended Free Tools
- Open Settings and tap Apps.
- Select the app you want to review.
- Tap Storage.
- Tap Clear cache. Check the displayed app and storage details before confirming if prompted.
Clear data is a separate, more consequential control in the same area. It can remove that app’s saved content or settings, so the app may behave like a new installation or require you to configure it again. Samsung also warns that deleting data from a frequently used app may make it run slower. Do not use Clear data just because the app appears in the storage list; first check whether its content is backed up or can be restored. Samsung’s support article on Other storage explains these controls.
Rank #3
- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
Check the Apps and Other breakdown if it looks confusing
On some Galaxy software versions, an information control beside Apps in the storage breakdown can change how app storage is displayed. If your screen offers that control, follow its on-screen explanation; do not assume every model exposes the same display or interprets the categories identically. This affects the breakdown view, not the underlying files. Samsung describes the option in its Other storage support guidance.
Move personal files to microSD only on compatible models
A microSD card can free internal storage by moving eligible personal files off the phone, but it does not directly remove app or system data counted under Other. This option is available only on models that support removable storage; check your exact model’s specifications and supported card capacity before buying or transferring files.
Rank #4
- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
- Confirm that your Galaxy model has a microSD card slot and check its supported capacity.
- Insert a compatible card, then open My Files.
- Select the eligible photos, videos or other files you want to move, and choose the card as the destination using the on-screen options.
- Open the files from the card to confirm they are accessible before deleting any remaining originals from internal storage.
Menu labels and transfer options can differ. Samsung’s microSD cards and your Galaxy phone or tablet guide covers file transfers and the compatible-device limitation.
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- Return to Settings > Apps, review which apps use the most storage, and consider clearing cache selectively.
- Use Device care to inspect recognized personal files and cleanup categories rather than deleting unfamiliar folders through My Files.
- Check whether photos, videos or downloads you want to keep can be moved to another supported storage location.
- If the category remains unusually large or the storage breakdown does not make sense, contact Samsung support with your phone’s exact model and software version. There is no universal procedure documented here for safely removing all of Other.
Do not delete system files or random folders in an attempt to shrink the category. Their names may not make their purpose clear, and removing them can affect apps or the phone’s operation.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- TYPE IT IN. TRANSFORM IT FAST: Enhance any shot in seconds on your smartphone by using Photo Assist¹ with Galaxy AI.² Add objects, restore details, or apply new styles by simply typing or tapping
- MAKE IT. EDIT IT. SHARE IT: Turn everyday moments into something personal with creative tools built right into your mobile whether it’s a special contact photo, custom wallpaper, an invitation or more³
- FAST. POWERFUL. AI-READY: Power through your day with AI-accelerated performance from our fastest, smoothest and most powerful Galaxy processor yet, built to keep up with everything you do
- IMMENSELY IMMERSIVE: No matter where you are or what you’re watching, your favorite videos and more come to life with the vibrant display on Galaxy S26
- FIT EVERYONE IN THE SHOT: Group selfies are easier on your Samsung phone with a wider front camera⁴ that captures more of the scene, so no one gets left out of the moment
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