Recommended Free Tools
Apple lists 7 GB of on-device storage as a requirement for Apple Intelligence, but that does not mean every iPhone will show an Apple Intelligence category using exactly 7 GB. To see what is taking up space on your phone, go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage. If you want to keep Apple Intelligence, reclaim space from the photos, attachments, downloads, files, or apps shown there. Turning the feature off is the option Apple documents for removing its on-device models.
Check how much iPhone storage is available
Open Settings > General > iPhone Storage. The screen shows available device storage and a breakdown of what is using it; it may also offer recommendations. Use the figures on your own iPhone to decide what to remove, rather than assuming Apple Intelligence occupies a fixed amount on every device.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Apple’s support page, accessed October 4, 2026, lists 7 GB of on-device storage as an Apple Intelligence requirement. That is Apple’s stated requirement, not a measurement of the model files on each individual phone. Requirements, compatible devices, languages, and feature availability can change; check Apple’s current Apple Intelligence requirements for eligibility details.
Free space without turning off Apple Intelligence
In iPhone Storage, start with the categories that have the most removable content. Apple identifies photos and videos, message attachments, downloaded videos, Files content, and apps as possible places to reclaim space. Before deleting anything, make sure you have a backup or that the content is otherwise safe to lose.
#1 Best Overall
- 【MFi Certified Flash Drive, Wide Compatibility】This 256GB USB flash drive for iPhone is officially MFi certified, ensuring full support for all iOS devices (iOS 12.1 and above). NOTE: For iPhone users, please download the required app from the App Store before use, while Android only needs to open your OTG function.
- 【Large Storage Capacity, Backup Easily】With 256GB/512GB of additional storage, this iPhone flash drive perfectly addresses memory shortages on your phone or iPad. You can share your special moment with your friends and family on your social media with just one-click. Note: The displayed capacity may differ from 256GB/512GB due to different calculation methods between storage manufacturers (1GB=1000MB) and computers (1GB=1024MB).
- 【Multi Port Design, Plug and Play】Equipped with USB/Lightning/Micro USB/Type-C (with independent adapter), this usb storage flash drive supports a variety of devices for effortless plug and play operation. Quickly transfer data between different devices, significantly enhancing convenience. Please note: Type-C adapter is shipped randomly in black or silver.
- 【High Speed Transfer, Save Your Time】With read speeds up to 40MB/s and write speeds up to 25MB/s, this thumb drive is more efficient than traditional USB drive. Allowing you to quickly transfer files, photos, and videos, which help you save time and focus on the things you like. Note: Actual speeds may vary based on device and processor performance.
- 【Stylish, Portable, and Secure】With a compact and stylish design, this flash drive for iPhone is available in blue, pink, black and gold, making it easy to carry around. The built-in encryption option allows you to set a password via the APP to secure your personal files, photos and videos, ensuring you have peace of mind when storing and accessing your precious memories while traveling or for daily use.
Photos and videos
Review large or unwanted photos and videos first. If you use iCloud Photos, confirm that syncing is complete and understand what deleting an item does across your devices before removing it. Back up anything you want to keep; deleting a local item is not a substitute for verifying that a copy exists elsewhere.
Message attachments
Large photos, videos, and other attachments in Messages can take up space. Review attachments listed in iPhone Storage and remove only those you no longer need or have saved elsewhere.
Rank #2
- MFi Certified Multi-function Flash Drive: This flash drive is MFi certified, high quality and excellent performance, allowing you to store your data more securely without worrying about data loss. Made of high quality metal material and advanced chip technology, it has excellent dustproof, drop-proof and anti-magnetic performance. The flash drive has a 256GB capacity, easily free up space on your device
- 256GB 3-in-1 Lightweight and Compact Memory Stick: The flash drive has USB/Lightning/Type C interfaces for USB/Usb C pcie port card compatible with iOS devices with iOS12.1 and above / OTG Android phones / PC with Win7 and above / MAC devices with MAC10.6 and above, convenient for data transfer between different devices. It is also lightweight and compact, easy to carry around and keep your data at your fingertips. Accompanied by a uniquely designed keychain, the product is more convenient for you to carry
- One Click Backup and One Click Sharing: You can easily backup photos, videos, and phonebook to your phone with just one click via the APP, freeing up space on your mobile device without using a data cable or iCloud. You can also share photos/videos/files from the flash drive directly to social media (Facebook, etc.) for easy sharing with family and friends. (Tips: iOS devices need to download the "U-Disk" APP when using flash drive; Android and PC devices do not need to download APP)
- Automatic Storage and On-the-Go Playback: All photos and videos captured by the in-app camera are automatically saved to U-Disk albums in real time and stored in a folder for easy editing and searching. Store your favorite movies and music on the flash drive, you can enjoy the stored movies or music anytime and anywhere when you are traveling or on a business trip
- High Speed Transfer and Data Encryption: This flash drive has high read/write speed, so you can enjoy the convenience of fast backup and save time. The flash drive uses stable APP software, you can choose to turn on Touch ID/Passcode to encrypt the whole flash drive, or you can choose to encrypt specific files to protect your data, so you can enjoy a more convenient and secure file storage experience
Downloaded videos
Remove offline video downloads you have already watched or can download again. This clears local copies without requiring you to delete the associated streaming app.
Files content
Check the Files app and iPhone Storage for large documents and downloads stored on the device. Delete items only after confirming they are backed up or available from their original source.
Rank #3
- USB-C 2-in-1 storage OTG: The Lexar JumpDrive Dual Drive D40E features USB Type-A and Type-C connectors in a slim, portable form factor for easy device compatibility
- Transfer speeds up to 100MB/s: Based on internal testing, performance may vary depending upon the host device, interface, and usage conditions. 1MB=1,000,000 bytes
- Plug and Play: Widely compatible with USB Type-C smartphones, tablets, laptops, Macs, and traditional Type-A devices, no software installation required. The 360° swivel design allows for easy switching between connectors without the hassle of losing a cap
- Durable & Compact: The Lexar D40E USB memory stick features a metal enclosure, withstands temperatures from 0° to 50° C (32°F to 122°F), and is lightweight at 26g with dimensions of 70.4 x 16.9 x 11.7mm
- Security & Warranty: Securely protects files using an advanced security software solution with 256-bit AES encryption. Backed by a Lexar 3-year limited warranty
Apps: offload or delete
For an app you rarely use, iPhone offers two different cleanup choices:
- Offload App removes the app itself while keeping its documents and data. Its icon remains on the Home Screen, and tapping it can reinstall the app.
- Delete App removes the app and its related data. Make sure you do not need that data before choosing this option.
iPhone can also offload unused apps automatically when storage is low. Apple says cached or temporary material may be removed when space is needed.
Rank #4
- Made For iPhone Certified. Compatible with iPhone 15 or newer (USB-C) and iPhone 14 or older models (Lightning)(2). When connected via USB-C, works with SANDISK Memory Zone app or Apple iOS Files app—automatic backup requires SANDISK app(3). Lightning connection requires the SANDISK app for copy and backup functions(3).
- SANDISK Memory Zone App Required. Download the app(3) from the App Store and update firmware if prompted to optimize your file management experience or jump to the iOS Files app from the home screen.
- Free Up Space. Seamlessly transfer files to your SanDisk Phone Drive, then easily delete them from your phone to reclaim valuable storage(3).
- Smarter Backups. Choose manual or automatic backup within the SANDISK Memory Zone app with real-time progress tracking, background multitasking, and partial backup support when storage is limited(3).
- Reliable Transfers. Move content between your USB-C or Lightning iPhone, iPad Pro, Mac, and other compatible devices(2).
Turn off Apple Intelligence to remove its on-device models
If you prefer to remove the models rather than keep Apple Intelligence enabled, turn off Apple Intelligence in Settings. Apple states: “If you turn off Apple Intelligence, the on-device models will be removed from your device.” This removes the models by disabling the feature; Apple’s support guidance does not describe a separate control for deleting only the models while leaving Apple Intelligence on.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →After a software update, Apple Intelligence models may download again. Apple says download time varies and recommends keeping the device connected to Wi-Fi and power for the fastest download experience.
iPhone storage and iCloud storage are different
iPhone storage is the physical capacity built into the device. iCloud storage is cloud capacity used for services such as backups, iCloud Photos, and iCloud Drive. Managing or buying iCloud storage does not increase the iPhone’s built-in capacity.
Low iCloud storage can interrupt backups, photo uploads, syncing, or iCloud Mail, but managing it is a separate task from freeing local iPhone space. Apple provides separate guidance for checking iPhone and iPad storage and managing iCloud storage.
Quick Recap
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.
