You cannot delete Samsung’s entire “Other” storage category with one tap: it is a storage-accounting label, not one folder. It can include app data, system files, cached data and temporary files. To reduce it safely, first find what is using space, remove files or downloads you no longer need, review Trash, and clear cache selectively. Treat Clear data as a separate, more consequential action.
What “Other” means on a Samsung phone or tablet
Samsung says the “Other” category contains data from installed apps, including system files, cached data and temporary files that do not fit another storage category. It is not a single user-accessible folder with a universal delete button. Samsung’s UK explanation, updated 4 August 2026, says the category cannot be deleted directly as a whole, though some of its contents can be reduced by clearing cache or app data: Samsung: What is Other Storage on your Samsung phone.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Depending on the device and software, Apps and Other may appear combined in the storage breakdown. Samsung’s instructions explain how to enable My Files in that view to see a more detailed breakdown. Follow the labels shown on your own Galaxy, since menu names and display options can vary.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
How to find files you can safely remove
Review storage categories
- Open Settings > Device care > Storage. The exact wording can vary by model and software.
- Open a category such as Images, Videos, Audio files or Documents.
- Review the listed items and select only files you recognize and no longer need, then delete them. Samsung’s guide describes this category-by-category review: Samsung: Free up storage space on your Galaxy phone or tablet.
Check Downloads and offline media
Use My Files > Downloads to inspect downloaded files. For films, music, podcasts or other offline content saved by an app, remove it from the app that downloaded it when possible. Google notes that downloads are often managed within the relevant app: Google: Free up space on your Android device.
#1 Best Overall
- PRIVACY DISPLAY: Automatically hide your screen from those beside you. The built-in privacy display can be preset¹ to turn on when receiving notifications, typing passwords, or using specific apps
- TYPE IT IN. TRANSFORM IT FAST: Enhance any shot in seconds on your smartphone by using Photo Assist² with Galaxy AI.³ Add objects, restore details, or apply new styles by simply typing or tapping
- NIGHTS, CAPTURED CLEARLY: From gigs to city lights, record and capture moments after dark with clarity using Nightography so your photos and videos stay crisp and clear on your Samsung Galaxy
- MAKE IT. EDIT IT. SHARE IT: Turn everyday moments into something personal with creative tools built right into your mobile phone, whether it’s a special contact photo, custom wallpaper, an invitation or more⁴
- HELP THAT KEEPS UP: Stay in the moment while Now Nudge with Galaxy AI helps you respond faster and stay organized with smart suggestions⁵ that appear exactly when you need them on your phone
If photos or videos are backed up and you want to keep them, verify that the backup is complete before removing local copies. Deleting a local file without confirming backup can mean losing the copy you intended to preserve.
Check Trash before expecting space back
Some Samsung deletion workflows move items to Trash rather than removing them permanently at once. Review Trash before emptying it: once emptied, its recovery path is gone. Samsung’s instructions describe separately emptying Gallery Trash for permanent deletion; depending on the device and software, Device Care may also show Trash or unused-app cleanup options. See the relevant steps in Samsung’s storage guide and Device Care and cache guidance.
Rank #2
- Please note, this device does not support E-SIM; This 4G model is compatible with all GSM networks worldwide outside of the U.S. In the US, ONLY compatible with T-Mobile and their MVNO's (Metro and Standup). It will NOT work with other CDMA carriers, and it is also not compatible with their MVNO (Visible, Xfinity Mobile, US Mobile, Cricket Wireless, etc).
- Compatibility with certain third-party devices and accessibility accessories, including some hearing aids, may vary depending on manufacturer support, Bluetooth protocols, software compatibility, and regional firmware limitations. For additional hearing aid compatibility information, please refer to Samsung’s official support documentation.
- Camera: 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 2 MP, f/2.4, (macro). Battery: 5000 mAh, non-removable | A power adapter is NOT included.
Clear cache without confusing it with app data
Clear cache for a selected app
- Open Settings > Apps.
- Choose an app, then open Storage.
- Tap Clear cache.
Cache is temporary app data. Clearing it is generally less disruptive than clearing app data, but an app may load more slowly the next time it opens while it rebuilds cached material. Neither Samsung nor Google specifies a guaranteed amount of space this will free, so treat it as a targeted cleanup rather than a promise of a particular storage gain. Google’s explanation of cache and app storage is in its Android storage guidance.
Use Clear data only when you accept the consequences
The same app Storage screen may offer Clear data or Clear storage. These are not another name for clearing cache: Google says clearing app storage permanently deletes all app data. Depending on the app, that can remove downloaded content, drafts, settings or local information and may sign you out. Check the app’s own options and confirm anything important is backed up before proceeding; when available, delete content from inside the app instead.
Rank #3
- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
Compare cleanup choices by risk and control
| Option | What you can inspect or choose | Data-loss risk | When space is reclaimed | Compatibility or limits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delete selected files in storage categories or Downloads | Review and select individual files | Limited to the selected files, but deleted items may matter | May require emptying the relevant Trash | Menu labels and Trash behavior vary by device and software |
| Remove downloaded media in its app | Choose app-managed offline content | Removes the selected offline copy; check whether it can be downloaded again | After the app removes the download | Steps depend on the app |
| Clear cache | Choose an app, not individual cached items | Usually temporary material; the app may rebuild it | After cache is cleared | Per-app Settings path; reclaimed space is not guaranteed |
| Clear data or Clear storage | Choose an app, but not which pieces of its stored data to retain | High for that app: stored app data can be permanently deleted | After the app data is cleared | Consequences depend on the app and its backup or sync behavior |
| Move personal files to another destination | Choose which files to move or copy | Low if you verify the transfer before deleting the original | After moving files off the device and, if needed, removing originals | SD card support is model-specific; many apps cannot be moved to SD |
| Factory reset | Not a selective cleanup | Very high: removes apps, settings and personal files | After the reset | Back up first; not a routine way to clear Other |
Move files you want to keep
If the space is occupied by personal files you want to retain, move them rather than delete them. Samsung documents moving files to an SD card, but a card slot is not available on every Galaxy model and many apps cannot be moved. Check the specifications for your exact model before buying a card; it is a destination for supported files, not a direct fix for app or system storage. Google also documents copying Android files to a computer in its storage guidance.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.When a factory reset is—and is not—appropriate
A factory reset is a last resort, not a normal “Other” cleanup step. Samsung warns that it removes apps, settings and personal files and recommends backing up first. Consider it only if you have a separate reason to reset the device and have verified a backup of everything you need; it is far broader than clearing selected files or one app’s cache: Samsung: Device Care and cache guidance.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- TYPE IT IN. TRANSFORM IT FAST: Enhance any shot in seconds on your smartphone by using Photo Assist¹ with Galaxy AI.² Add objects, restore details, or apply new styles by simply typing or tapping
- MAKE IT. EDIT IT. SHARE IT: Turn everyday moments into something personal with creative tools built right into your mobile whether it’s a special contact photo, custom wallpaper, an invitation or more³
- FAST. POWERFUL. AI-READY: Power through your day with AI-accelerated performance from our fastest, smoothest and most powerful Galaxy processor yet, built to keep up with everything you do
- IMMENSELY IMMERSIVE: No matter where you are or what you’re watching, your favorite videos and more come to life with the vibrant display on Galaxy S26
- FIT EVERYONE IN THE SHOT: Group selfies are easier on your Samsung phone with a wider front camera⁴ that captures more of the scene, so no one gets left out of the moment
Rank #4
- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
