Have you received a “Insufficient Storage Available” message on your Android smartphone for what seemed like no reason? This is a common problem that we explore in detail in this article. We’ll also dive into data erasure for used phone businesses as deleting files manually is definitely not an option for companies. Join us!
Why Is the Phone Storage Full for No Reason?
Although it might seem that there is not much data on the device, the storage is still full for a reason. Most likely, it’s due to one of the following factors.
Cached Data
Some data that needs to be retrieved faster (for example, files or browser information that are used frequently) is collected in the cache. Also, messaging apps auto-download media files, including images, videos, and voice messages, into the cache.
Eventually, cached data accumulates and occupies storage space. Clearing the cache can improve device performance as it removes outdated files and, therefore, frees up space.
Application Data
Data used and generated by applications can be stored, even when it is not needed or visible to the user. To detect such files that take up storage space for no reason, check the data usage of applications in the settings. Then, applications can be archived to reclaim storage without losing essential information.
System Files
System files are essential for the functioning of the operating system and powering basic operations on the device. They cannot be easily deleted and take up storage space. Some of these files, such as temporary data and logs, can accumulate over time. Clearing the system cache, if the function is supported on the smartphone, can help remove unnecessary files that were not automatically deleted after use.
How to Free Up Phone Storage
When an “Insufficient Storage Available” message appears, there are several steps you can take to reclaim space:
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Clear the cache. We have already discussed this method, but it is probably the most efficient and deserves to be mentioned twice. Usually, cache can be deleted directly from the settings of the Android phone, but not all devices provide such an option (in which case, cache can only be cleared for specific applications). Also, double-check the cache of browsers, messaging apps, and other resource-intensive applications, as they generate the most data.
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Delete or archive apps. If clearing the cache doesn't help, try uninstalling or archiving applications. Similar to the Offloading function on Apple products, archiving on Android devices allows you to remove parts of an app’s data without deleting the app completely. It helps free up storage space while still keeping the app’s settings and progress. It’s better to delete applications that you no longer need so they don’t take up space.
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Optimize data storage. With limited storage available on the smartphone, you need to manage it efficiently. For example, images and videos can be transferred to external storage devices, such as hard drives or computers. If these files need to be accessed frequently, they can be stored in cloud storage or on an SD card.
It’s important to manage data storage on your Android phone carefully to prevent the storage from becoming overloaded. Removing unnecessary files and applications and keeping your phone’s storage well-organized will help prevent the “Insufficient Storage Available” error.
How Can Used Phone Businesses Erase Data?
Businesses that operate with used devices also need to erase data from phones. Obviously, they do it for another reason — not to free up storage space, but rather to irreversibly wipe personal information and prevent data leaks.
While manual wiping is prone to errors, using certified software provides a safe and secure workflow. For example, NSYS Data Erasure wipes personal data in accordance with international standards, including NIST, ADISA and R2. With this solution, up to 60 phones and other mobile devices can be connected to one computer, which drastically streamlines phone wiping. Therefore, businesses receive a quick and safe workflow, the results of which are confirmed by certificates of successful data erasure.
Try NSYS Data Erasure for your business to ensure certified data protection!
