With a constant inflow of text messages, pictures, videos, and GIFs, it’s not surprising that your iPhone storage eventually runs out. This can halt your ability to take new photos or download apps, making it essential to free up some space. One prime suspect for taking up unnecessary storage on your device is Apple Messages. Here are some tips to clean up Apple Messages and create more room on your iPhone.

1. Delete old message threads

Scroll through your messages and look for old conversations that are no longer relevant or important. To delete these threads:

– Swipe left on the message thread you want to delete.

– Tap the red trash icon.

– Confirm by tapping ‘Delete.’

2. Automatically delete messages after a set period

Apple allows you to set an expiration date for messages, so they automatically get removed from your device after a certain amount of time. To enable this feature:

– Go to ‘Settings.’

– Scroll down and tap ‘Messages.’

– Under the ‘Message History’ section, tap ‘Keep Messages.’

– Choose between 30 days, 1 year or forever.

Remember that choosing this option will permanently delete messages older than the specified time frame.

3. Save photos and videos manually

Sometimes, we receive media files in our messages that we want to keep. Instead of saving the whole message thread, simply save the attached photo or video manually and then delete the conversation.

– Tap on the photo or video in the message.

– Tap the share icon (square with an upward arrow) in the bottom left corner.

– Tap ‘Save Image’ or ‘Save Video.’

4. Clear message cache

Apple doesn’t provide a straightforward way to clear the cache in Messages, but you can use a workaround with the built-in Voice Memos app.

– Open ‘Voice Memos’ on your iPhone.

– Record a dummy memo, ideally around 40-60 seconds long.

– Send the recorded memo to yourself in the Messages app.

– Delete the dummy memo from Voice Memos and Messages.

This process forces Messages to clear its cache, often removing several MBs of space.

5. Disable message attachments from auto-downloading

Prevent future storage issues by disabling the auto-download of videos or photos sent to you in messages.

– Go to ‘Settings.’

– Scroll down and tap ‘Messages.’

– Toggle off ‘Auto-play Videos,’ ‘Low-Quality Image Mode’ and ‘Message Previews.’

By following these steps, you can clean up your Apple Messages and free up some much-needed space on your device. Say goodbye to full storage notifications and enjoy a clutter-free messaging experience.