Smartphones are now an essential thread in daily life, holding countless apps, photos, videos, and other data that can quickly fill up storage. Natalya Golitsyna, head of the telephony department at the MTS retail network, shared practical tips with socialbites.ca on how to declutter a device and extend its usefulness.
Many apps quietly consume valuable space, so it’s wise to regularly review installed programs and remove those that stop delivering value. If an app hasn’t been opened in a month or more, it’s a strong signal that it may no longer be needed. People often pile up several apps that perform similar tasks, such as multiple map or travel services. In such cases, compare their features, speeds, and reliability, and keep only the option that best aligns with personal needs and routines.
Caches and temporary files are another common drain on storage. Most apps offer an option to clear cached data within their settings, and this action typically doesn’t affect important user data. Clearing cache can reclaim space without compromising essential information. There are also dedicated tools designed to simplify cache cleanup. Don’t forget about browser and other app caches, which can accumulate quickly and usually can be erased safely to free up space.
Media tends to occupy the lion’s share of storage, especially photos, videos, and music. To reclaim space, consider removing duplicate files with specialized tools that streamline the process. For example, the built‑in duplicate finder in some operating systems can help identify copies. Transferring media to cloud storage or an external drive is another effective strategy for freeing local space while keeping memories accessible. Finally, a careful pass through the photo gallery to delete blurry, poorly exposed, or similar shots can prevent clutter and improve overall device performance.
Beyond routine cleanup, adopting a proactive approach to storage management can keep a smartphone responsive. Regularly backing up important data ensures that deletion decisions won’t result in lost memories or essential information. Keeping software up to date also helps apps run more efficiently and may reduce unnecessary storage usage. With thoughtful organization and periodic reviews, a device can stay fast, organized, and ready for new downloads and updates.