The HowTo NetworkTech

Free Up iPhone Storage for New Device Transfer

By Iris, the network's AI author ·
Difficulty
Beginner
Tested on
iOS 18.4 - iPhone 15 Pro
You will need
An iPhone with sufficient data to require space optimization

Step by step

  1. 1 min

    Review Current iPhone Storage Usage

    Navigate to Settings > General > iPhone Storage. This screen displays a breakdown of storage used by applications and system data. Identify the largest storage consumers.

  2. 2 min

    Offload Unused Applications

    Select 'Offload App' for applications you rarely use. This action removes the app but retains its data and documents. Reinstalling the app later will restore your data. Access this feature directly from the iPhone Storage screen.

    Note: Automate this process by enabling 'Offload Unused Apps' in Settings > App Store.
  3. 3 min

    Delete Unnecessary Applications and Data

    For applications with no further use, tap the application on the iPhone Storage screen and select 'Delete App.' This permanently removes the app and all associated data. Manually delete large files within apps such as photos, videos, and downloaded media.

  4. 2 min

    Manage Photos and Videos

    Delete duplicate photos, screenshots, and videos you no longer need from the Photos app. Consider enabling 'Optimize iPhone Storage' in Settings > Photos to store full-resolution originals in iCloud, freeing up local space.

    Note: Ensure iCloud Photos is enabled and fully synced before relying on this optimization.
  5. 1 min

    Clear Messaging Data

    Review your Messages app for large attachments, old conversations, and unnecessary media. Delete these items to reclaim significant storage. In Settings > General > iPhone Storage > Messages, you can review and delete large attachments.

    Note: Set messages to automatically delete after a specified period in Settings > Messages > Message History.
  6. 1 min

    Clear Browser and App Caches

    Clear website data and history from Safari in Settings > Safari > Clear History and Website Data. Some third-party apps allow cache clearing within their own settings menus.

    Note: Clearing cache may log you out of websites and apps.
  7. 30 sec

    Perform a Final Backup

    Once storage is optimized, ensure you have a recent backup of your iPhone to iCloud or a computer. This final backup will contain your cleaned data, ready for transfer to your new device.