Is it OK to clear data?

To download more apps and media, or help your phone run better, you can clear space on your phone.

• Storage is where you keep data, like music and photos.
• Memory is where you run programs, like apps and the Android system.

Important: Some of these steps work only on Android 9 and up. Learn how to check your Android version.

Free up storage

Remove photos

If you back up with Google Photos, you can delete the copies on your phone. You can see the backed-up copies in the app using Wi-Fi or mobile data. Learn how to delete photos and videos from your phone.

Remove downloaded movies, music & other media

To delete content from Google Play:

1. Open the Google Play app with the content, like Play Music or Play Movies & TV.
2. Tap the Menu
   
   
   Settings
   
   Manage downloads.
3. Tap Downloaded
   
   
   Remove.

To delete content from other sources, delete from the app that you used to download it.

Remove apps & app data

Close apps that don't respond

Android manages the memory that apps use. You don't usually need to close apps. But if an app isn't responding, try closing the app. Learn how to troubleshoot apps that aren't working.

Uninstall apps you don't use

If you uninstall an app and need it later, you can download it again. If you paid for the app, you won't have to buy it again. Learn how to uninstall apps.

Clear the app's cache & data

You can usually clear an app’s cache and data through your phone’s Settings app. Settings can vary by phone. For more info, get help from your device manufacturer.

• Clear cache: Deletes temporary data. Some apps can open slower the next time you use them.
• Clear data storage: Permanently deletes all app data. We recommend trying to delete from inside the app first.

Delete or move files

Delete downloaded files

To learn how to find and remove downloaded files, go to your device manufacturer’s support site.

Copy files to a computer

You can move files and folders to a computer with a USB cable, and then delete them from your phone. Learn how to transfer files between your phone and computer.

Check & free up memory

Android manages the memory that apps use. You don't usually need to close apps. But if an app isn't responding, try closing the app. Learn how to troubleshoot apps that aren't working.

Tip: If you think an app is using too much memory, you can delete the app. Learn how to uninstall apps.

Related resources

• Get started with Google Photos
• Can't download from Google Play
• Find & delete your files with Files by Google

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