Quick Answer: To delete files on your iPhone, you can use the built-in Files app or go to the specific app where the files are stored and delete them from there.
Introduction:
So, you’ve been using your iPhone for a while now and it’s starting to get cluttered with files and documents that you no longer need. Whether it’s old photos, unnecessary PDFs, or obsolete apps, deleting files from your iPhone is a simple task that can free up valuable space and help you stay organized.
In this article, we will guide you through the process of deleting files on your iPhone. We’ll cover various methods that you can use, depending on the type of file you want to delete. From photos and videos to documents and apps, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s dive right in and explore the different ways you can declutter your iPhone and reclaim some much-needed storage space!
How Do I Delete Files on My iPhone?
Deleting files on your iPhone can help you free up valuable storage space and organize your device. Whether you want to remove old photos, unused apps, or unnecessary documents, this guide will walk you through the different methods to delete files on your iPhone. From individual files to entire app deletions, we’ve got you covered.
Delete Individual Files
To delete individual files on your iPhone, follow these simple steps:
1. Open the app where the file is stored. For example, if you want to delete a photo, open the Photos app.
2. Locate the file you want to delete. You can browse through albums, folders, or search for a specific file.
3. Once you’ve found the file, tap on it to open it in full view.
4. Look for an icon that resembles a trash can or a delete button. It’s usually located in the bottom menu bar or in the top-right corner of the screen.
5. Tap on the delete icon and confirm your action when prompted. The file will be moved to the “Recently Deleted” folder, where it will be permanently deleted after 30 days, or you can choose to delete it immediately.
Delete Multiple Files
If you have multiple files you want to delete at once, you can use the “Select” option to make the process faster:
1. Open the app where the files are stored.
2. Locate the folder or album containing the files you want to delete.
3. Look for the “Select” option, usually represented by a button with a checkbox icon. Tap on it to enter selection mode.
4. Tap on each file you want to delete. A checkmark should appear next to the selected files.
5. Once you’ve selected all the files you want to delete, look for the delete icon and tap on it.
6. Confirm your action when prompted. The selected files will be deleted and moved to the “Recently Deleted” folder.
Delete Apps
Deleting apps you no longer use is another effective way to free up storage space on your iPhone. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Locate the app you want to delete on your home screen or in the App Library.
2. Gently press and hold the app icon until all the icons start jiggling. Be careful not to press too hard, as this might activate 3D Touch or Haptic Touch.
3. Look for a small “x” icon in the top-left corner of the app icon and tap on it.
4. A confirmation pop-up will appear, asking if you want to delete the app and its data. If you’re certain, tap on “Delete.”
5. The app icon will disappear, indicating that the app has been deleted from your device.
Delete Documents and Data
In addition to files and apps, your iPhone accumulates data from various sources, such as cached files, cookies, and temporary data. Clearing these unnecessary files can help optimize your device’s performance and free up additional space. To delete documents and data on your iPhone:
1. Go to Settings on your iPhone and tap on your name at the top to access your Apple ID settings.
2. Scroll down and tap on “iCloud” (or “iTunes & App Store” on older iOS versions) to access your iCloud settings.
3. In the iCloud settings, tap on “Manage Storage” or “Manage Storage & Backup” (depending on your iOS version).
4. Tap on “Backups” to access your existing backups.
5. Select the backup you want to manage or tap “Delete Backup” to delete an entire backup.
6. If you want to delete specific app data, scroll down and tap on the app under the “Documents & Data” section.
7. Tap on “Delete Data” or “Delete App,” depending on your iOS version, to remove the app’s data from your device.
Empty the Recently Deleted Folder
Remember that files you delete, including photos and videos, are not immediately removed from your iPhone. Instead, they are moved to the “Recently Deleted” folder, where they are stored for 30 days before being permanently deleted. To empty this folder and reclaim additional storage space:
1. Open the Photos app on your iPhone.
2. Tap on the “Albums” tab at the bottom.
3. Scroll down and locate the “Recently Deleted” folder.
4. Tap on it to open, and you’ll find all the files you’ve deleted recently.
5. Tap on “Select” in the top-right corner.
6. Tap on “Delete All” in the bottom-left corner.
7. Confirm your action when prompted. The files in the “Recently Deleted” folder will be permanently deleted.
Remember to regularly check and empty the “Recently Deleted” folder to keep your storage space optimized.
In conclusion, deleting files on your iPhone is essential for managing storage and keeping your device organized. Whether it’s individual files, multiple files, apps, or unnecessary data, you now have the knowledge and tools to efficiently delete files and reclaim valuable space on your iPhone. Enjoy a clutter-free device and a smoother user experience.
How to Permanently Delete Files on iPhone and iPad (2023)
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I delete files on my iPhone?
To delete files on your iPhone, follow these simple steps:
Can I delete multiple files at once on my iPhone?
Yes, you can delete multiple files at once on your iPhone. Here’s how:
Where do deleted files go on my iPhone?
When you delete files on your iPhone, they are moved to the Recently Deleted folder. Here’s how to find and permanently delete them:
Can I recover deleted files on my iPhone?
Yes, you can recover deleted files on your iPhone, but only if they were recently deleted and are still in the Recently Deleted folder. Here’s how to recover them:
How do I free up storage space by deleting files on my iPhone?
To free up storage space on your iPhone by deleting files, follow these steps:
Can I delete pre-installed apps on my iPhone?
No, you cannot delete pre-installed apps on your iPhone. However, you can hide them from your home screen. Here’s how:
Final Thoughts
To delete files on your iPhone, simply follow these steps. First, locate the file or app you want to delete on your home screen. Press and hold the icon until it starts to wiggle. Then, tap the “X” button that appears on the top left corner of the icon. A confirmation message will appear, asking if you want to delete the file. Tap “Delete” to confirm. Alternatively, you can go to the Settings app, select “General,” then “iPhone Storage.” From there, tap on the app or file you want to delete and select “Delete App” or “Delete Files.” By using either of these methods, you can easily remove unwanted files and free up space on your iPhone. So, if you’re wondering, “how do I delete files on my iPhone,” these simple steps will help you accomplish just that.
