Slow smartphone performance does not always mean that it is outdated or needs repair. Often, it is enough to clear the cache — temporary files that accumulate while using apps and the internet. This frees up some storage, improves Android stability, and resolves issues with apps freezing or taking a long time to launch, writes UNN.
When Clearing the Cache Is Truly Necessary
Clearing the cache is a simple and safe way to speed up an Android device without deleting personal data or resetting settings. In most cases, this helps free up additional storage, eliminate minor errors, and improve the system’s overall stability.
If your smartphone has suddenly started working more slowly, freezing, or taking longer than usual to open apps, it is worth starting with clearing the cache. As a preventive measure, it is recommended to clear it once every few months.
Ways to Free Up Phone Storage
Cached files are information that the device repeatedly requests in order to keep it readily accessible. To delete app caches, you need to:
- Open the Manager app and activate the cleanup function. The system will begin analyzing the device, after which a message will appear suggesting that all cached app data be deleted;
- Tap “Clear” or proceed to the next task subsection. To do this, tap the cache size figure displayed by the Manager app. A list of apps will appear on the screen. Select only those utilities that are not used or are launched rarely.
- Tap “Clear.”
To clear the cache in messengers, including Telegram and Viber, which are considered "harmful" because they "clog up" a lot of phone storage, you need to:
- Open one of the messengers.
- Tap the menu icon in the upper-right corner of the screen.
- Go to Settings.
- Select “Data and Storage,” and then “Storage Usage.”
- Tap “Clear Cache.”
Browser history entries and cached files take up a small amount of storage; however, if they are not deleted for months or even years, they can occupy a lot of space. The browser cache can be deleted as follows:
- open the browser’s home page and tap the three small dots in the upper-right corner of the screen;
- Select “History” from the menu.
- tap “Delete browsing data.”
The Difference Between Clearing the Cache and Deleting App Data
Clearing the cache deletes temporary data. Some apps may work slowly the next time they are opened. The Clear Data function permanently deletes all app data. Try deleting the data in the app first.
Cached data is not vital for an app or website to function. It simply means that the files will need to be downloaded again.
Clearing an app’s cache will not delete your data. However, be careful: if you clear the app’s data, you will lose all settings and saved data.
How to clear cache in Viber on your phone: instructions for Android and iPhone09.04.26, 16:07