System data takes up 50GB of my total memory

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Level 1

4 points

System data takes up 50GB of my total memory

I have had a phone for 5 years and last year I noticed I filled 60/64GB of my phone storage. I tried deleting stuff but nothing changed. Then this summer I had a choice between a 128 GB & 256GB one so I got the bigger one thinking I dont want to to have more issues with the storage.

Now looking back it was a good choice because my memory got filled to 114/256GB so with the other I would have issues again.

my question is, how dan I remove the 50gb of system data, reduce it slightly or significantly?

I always use Safari on incognito mode to it doesnt save cash memory( seen it as an advice on these forums but not sure anymore)

any help is welcome. Thank you

iPhone 13 Pro Max, iOS 16

Posted on Dec 25, 2022 12:20 AM

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Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

ProustGiulio

Level 10

209,826 points

Dec 25, 2022 12:36 AM in response to -luka-

Keeping in mind that the “other" or "system data” storage category is mostly filled with cache and system files created by Safari, the Mail app, other apps and iOS/iPadOS itself, that space is automatically managed by the operating system and you can’t interact with it.

That said, if your device is running iOS/iPadOS 13.6.1 or later, see this support article: Clear Other storage on your iPhone or iPad - Apple Support

If you already tried (to no avail) those steps, some benefits to reduce that space can be also obtained creating a full backup of your device, then restoring it to factory settings and, in the end, setting it up as new, as per these instructions: Restore your iPhone, iPad, or iPod to factory settings – Apple Support

When done, restore data from your previously made backup, then restart your device and check your device storage again.

If the issue persists, contact Apple Support directly, using this link: Get Support

Regards

Giulio

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Answer 2

-luka- Author

Level 1

4 points

Dec 25, 2022 12:55 AM in response to ProustGiulio

" That said, if your device is running iOS/iPadOS 13.6.1 or later, see this support article: Clear Other storage on your iPhone or iPad - Apple Support "

this link only tells me to update my iOS to 13.6.1 or later to fix it but I am on the latest 16.2, I think, already

nevertheless I will try the other part

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Answer 3

ProustGiulio

Level 10

209,826 points

Dec 25, 2022 2:08 AM in response to -luka-

Unfortunately, not everyone, even if they have devices that support that iOS version, update their iPhones. That's why I wrote that sentence.

But you are right, now noticing your product list (model 13 with iOS 16) I could have avoided inserting that suggestion, I apologize for that.

Giulio

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System data takes up 50GB of my total memory

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