iCloud folder tricks
Many overlook hidden iCloud folders that occupy space. Check your Files app under iCloud Drive for files from Voice Memos, Notes, and apps like Keynote and Pages.
You’ll probably find clutter you don’t need. Deleting items from iCloud Drive removes them from iCloud and from any device signed in with iCloud Drive enabled, so only delete files you no longer need anywhere.
Optimize photo storage
This feature automatically stores full-resolution photos in iCloud and keeps smaller versions on your iPhone. It’s found under iPhone Settings, then Photos. When turned on, your device won’t hold the heavy original files unless needed.
This helps you save a lot of local space without losing access to your entire library. It’s perfect for people who take many photos but don’t want to keep deleting to make room.
Smart backup settings
Not every app needs to be backed up to iCloud. Go to Settings, tap your name, then iCloud, and select Manage Storage. From there, look at what apps are included in your backup. Disable the ones you don’t need, like games or unused apps.
This will not delete the apps themselves, but will stop them from bloating your iCloud. You may notice how much space you save when trimming unnecessary backup data.
Shared albums hack
Shared Albums don’t count against your iCloud storage limit. Instead of sending pictures through messages or email, create a Shared Album and invite friends or family.
It’s a handy way to share photos without using your iCloud storage, but Shared Albums reduce photo resolution and have limits (for example, a shared album can hold up to 5,000 items).
You can even add and remove images as needed. This also helps you organize events like holidays or birthdays in one place without taking up your personal iCloud space.
Auto sync alternatives
Consider turning off auto-sync for specific apps if your iCloud storage is constantly maxed out. Services like Google Photos offer free or cheaper storage plans to keep your photos safe without relying only on iCloud.
If you switch away from iCloud Photos, download your original photos and videos first, then turn off iCloud Photos on that device. After that, you can upload to an alternative service. It’s a helpful option for folks needing more flexibility.
Free up iPhone storage (without deleting apps)
If your iPhone is full (even if iCloud has space), enable Offload Unused Apps to remove the app while keeping its documents and data.
Offloading primarily saves space on your iPhone by removing the app itself while keeping its documents and data. It may not reduce iCloud usage unless you also adjust what’s stored or backed up to iCloud. This is great for apps you rarely use but don’t want to delete completely.
iCloud Drive cleanout
Over time, your iCloud Drive can collect a mess of old files you forgot existed. Open the Files app, tap Browse, then iCloud Drive. Go through each folder manually and delete items you no longer need, like PDFs, videos, or duplicate documents.
These are often overlooked but can free up a meaningful amount of space. Also, check Downloads or folders tied to third-party apps that saved stuff to your iCloud without you realizing it.
Screenshots to trash
Screenshots are small but add up fast. Go into your Photos app and search “Screenshots” to find them all simultaneously. Review the list and delete the ones you don’t need. Most people forget to clean these out regularly.
After deleting, clear your “Recently Deleted” folder to free up space. This trick can quickly reduce storage use without deleting personal memories or essential photos.
Compress photo library
To reduce storage use, start with ‘Optimize iPhone Storage’ and remove duplicates or unwanted videos. If you need smaller files for sharing or archiving elsewhere, export copies at a lower resolution, compression reduces file size, but quality may also drop.
You don’t lose your photos or videos; you gain some breathing room on iCloud. This is a practical move if you’re quickly running out of space.
Delete duplicate files
Duplicates happen more than you think. You might save the same file twice or have apps that create redundant copies. Use the Files app to sort by name or size to spot these.
You can also use third-party apps like Gemini or Cleaner to scan and remove extras. Cleaning duplicates not only frees up storage but makes it easier to find what you need. It’s an easy win for better iCloud organization.
Use external storage
You don’t have to keep everything in iCloud. External hard or lightning-based flash drives can safely store photos and videos offline. Use the Files app to transfer your older memories or large video files onto these drives.
This is a good option for anyone who wants to keep files but doesn’t need them on their phone daily. It helps reduce iCloud usage while still maintaining data accessibility when needed.
Family sharing fix
With Family Sharing, everyone can share a single iCloud storage plan, which can be more affordable and space-efficient. Go to Settings, tap your name, then Family Sharing, and set up storage sharing.
Instead of paying for separate plans, your family gets one large plan that’s easier to manage. It’s useful when everyone has tons of photos or backups. You’ll also be able to see who’s using what amount of space and manage it better.
Turn off Live Photos
Live Photos take up more space than still images. You can disable the feature by opening the Camera app and tapping the Live icon. Your future photos will be still shots and take up less space.
You can also convert existing Live Photos into stills using the Edit feature in Photos. Doing this regularly makes a difference, especially if you snap many pictures daily.
Manage app backups
Some apps, like WhatsApp or large games, can store gigabytes of data in iCloud. Head to Settings, tap your name, then iCloud, and Manage Storage. From there, tap Backups and choose your device. You’ll see a list of apps that are backing up.
Turn off backup for the ones you don’t need. This won’t affect how the app works, but it will keep your iCloud from filling up with stuff you never plan to restore.
Reduce video size
Videos eat up more iCloud space than anything else. Before uploading, use tools like iMovie or Apple’s built-in editing to trim or compress the file. You can also lower your camera settings from 4K to 1080p to avoid giant file sizes in the future.
Editing even a few seconds off a video can make a big difference in space. It’s a smart habit if you record a lot and want your iCloud to last.
Curious how they stack up? Check out our breakdown of iCloud, Google One, and Dropbox in 2025.
Download originals option
By default, your device may store full-resolution photos and videos locally. You can switch to keeping originals in iCloud instead. Go to Settings, then Photos, and turn on Optimize iPhone Storage.
This allows your phone to hold smaller versions of files and load full versions from iCloud only when needed. It’s one of the simplest ways to save iPhone storage while keeping full-resolution originals in iCloud. while keeping your media secure and accessible at any time.
Want to know how your smart home works without relying on the cloud? Take a peek at what really happens when you go cloud-free.
This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.
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