We’ve all been there — you go to snap the perfect photo or download a new app, and suddenly you’re hit with the dreaded message: “Storage Full.” Your phone slows down, photos won’t save, and frustration builds. But don’t worry — this digital blockage is fixable. Here’s a practical guide to help you reclaim space, breathe new life into your phone, and avoid hitting capacity again anytime soon.
Step 1: Do a Quick Audit
Start by checking what’s actually taking up all your space.
iPhone: Settings → General → iPhone Storage
Android: Settings → Storage
You’ll see a breakdown — photos, apps, messages, system data, and other files. This gives you a clear picture of where to focus first.
Step 2: Delete What You Don’t Use
You’d be surprised how many apps just sit there untouched.
– Uninstall apps you haven’t opened in months.
– Delete old voice memos, downloaded files, and duplicate photos.
– Clear out podcasts or audiobooks you’ve finished.
Pro Tip: Both Android and iOS now offer built-in recommendations to help you offload unused apps or large attachments.
Step 3: Move Photos & Videos to the Cloud
These files are usually the biggest space hogs.
iPhone: Turn on iCloud Photos and enable Optimize iPhone Storage
Android: Use Google Photos (which offers free storage with some compression) or Google One for full-quality backups
Once backed up, you can safely delete local copies from your device.
Step 4: Clean Up Your Messages
Text messages, especially those with photo/video attachments, pile up quickly.
– Delete entire old threads you don’t need.
– Set messages to auto-delete after a certain period (30 days or 1 year).
– Clear out big attachments from chats (Settings → Messages → Review Large Attachments on iPhone).
Step 5: Empty the “Trash” or “Recently Deleted” Folder
Just because you’ve deleted something doesn’t mean it’s really gone.
– Open your “Recently Deleted” album in Photos and permanently erase those files.
– Do the same in your Files app or cloud storage folders — many have trash bins that still occupy space until emptied.
Step 6: Use an SD Card or External Storage (Android users)
Many Android phones let you expand storage with an SD card. Move media files or even apps (if supported) to your SD card to free up internal memory.
For iPhone users, external drives like SanDisk iXpand plug directly into your Lightning port and let you move files off your phone quickly.
Step 7: Clear App Cache (Android only)
Some apps (especially social media) store tons of cached data.
Go to Settings → Apps → [App Name] → Storage → Clear Cache
Be careful not to hit “Clear Data” unless you’re okay with logging back in.
Step 8: Update Your Phone’s Software
System updates often include performance improvements that can better manage memory and storage — and sometimes free up a bit of space.
Step 9: Enable Storage Optimisation Features
Some phones now have built-in tools to help automate cleanup.
iPhone: Use Optimise Storage in Music and Photos settings.
Android: Use Files by Google — a smart file manager with cleanup suggestions.
Step 10: Backup and Start Fresh (Advanced)
If you’re still low on space and want a fresh start:
1. Back up your entire phone to iCloud, Google, or your computer.
2. Perform a factory reset.
3. Restore only what you actually use and need.
It’s like spring cleaning for your digital life.
Final Thoughts
Running out of storage can feel like hitting a wall, but with a little digital decluttering, you can free up space and keep your phone running like new. Make a habit of checking storage every few months — and don’t forget to keep your photos backed up!
Bare in mind if your not sure or if your struggling you can always give us a call for some help at 1300 682 817