Clean up memory - how to create storage space

Whether on your smartphone, laptop or tablet: If the memory space is full, you need to clean it up. With the right tips and tricks, this often works with just a few simple steps. In many cases, you also have the option of expanding the internal memory space.

Memory space full? What you can do

If the storage space on your smartphone, tablet or computer is full, no new apps can be installed or data saved.

• Identify storage hogs and clean out unused apps and data. Android, iOS, macOS and Windows are equipped with extra on-board tools for this purpose, which allow you to manage and optimize internal storage space. You can usually find corresponding tools in the memory management or in the system settings.
• Empty the download folder and the recycle bin regularly. In the two folders quickly accumulate data that is actually no longer needed. Store unused data. For example, use an external storage medium or one of the many cloud storage solutions. Online storage not only saves you storage space on your device, but it also simplifies data synchronization between multiple devices.

Expand storage space - you have these options

If the integrated storage space remains scarce, you can expand it in many cases. For example, many smartphones and tablets are equipped with a memory card slot. You can also expand the storage space on a laptop or computer by either installing a new additional hard drive or connecting an external storage medium.