[Full Guide] How to Fix System Data iPhone Storage High

What is system data on iPhone?

In iOS, system data refers to "caches, logs, and other resources in use by the system," including temporary files not strictly linked to an app's storage. This data is fluid and adjusts according to system requirements, with the iPhone clearing it automatically when not needed.

For instance, Safari browsing history isn't classified under app data but is stored as cache, contributing to system data. Similarly, content downloaded for offline use in streaming apps falls into this category. The "System Data" portion in storage seems to encompass temporary files and miscellaneous data beyond app size.

How to check iPhone storage

If you need to check your iPhone storage, just go to the Settings app on your iPhone > Tap General, then choose iPhone Storage to see it.

The storage bar visually displays the utilized storage. Below, individual apps are listed showcasing their storage usage. Tapping each reveals the app's size, file consumption, and options to offload the app or delete its data. At the list's bottom, you'll find System Data.

Why is system data so high on your iPhone?

System data on an iPhone encompasses various essential components and functionalities that contribute to the device's operations. Several factors can contribute to the system data appearing high:

 A significant portion of system data comprises the iOS operating system and its firmware. With each update, the system data may increase to accommodate new features, security updates, and improvements.  iOS generates cache and temporary files to optimize performance, store app data, and facilitate smoother operations. Over time, these files can accumulate.  The system collects logs and diagnostic information to track errors, monitor performance, and provide data for troubleshooting purposes.  The iPhone reserves space for system processes, such as managing updates, background tasks, system settings, and other core functionalities. This reserved space ensures the device functions smoothly.

  Some app-related data might fall under system storage, especially if it's integral to the functioning of the system or shared across multiple apps.

 Occasionally, corrupted or fragmented data within the system can occupy more space than necessary, contributing to higher system data.

How to fix system data iPhone storage high

If you need to erase documents or data on iPhone to clear up your system storage, try these ways below to learn how to clear system data on iPhone storage without resetting.

Method 1. Restart your iPhone

Restarting your iPhone can release system resources and clear temporary files. It's a simple way to refresh your phone without resetting it entirely.

For iPhone X/11/12/13 or later: Press and hold either volume button and the side button simultaneously until the power-off slider appears > Drag the power-off slider to the right to turn off your device.

For iPhone 6/7/8 or SE(2nd or 3rd generation): Press and hold the side button until the power-off slider appears on the screen > Drag the slider to the right to power off your iPhone.

For iPhone SE (1st generation), 5, or earlier: Press and hold the top button > When the power-off slider appears, drag the slider to turn off the device.

After 30 seconds, hold down the side or top button until the Apple logo appears to restart your iPhone.

Method 2. Delete data with a professional tool

When it comes to freeing up iPhone storage without resetting your device, the professional iPhone data eraser - FoneTool can be an effective tool to make it.

 Erase private data: You can use FoneTool to erase photos, videos, music, podcasts, contacts, etc. on your iPhone.  Factory reset iPhone: FoneTool allows you to erase all iPhone data in one click when you need to sell or give it away.  Selective or full backup: You can selectively or fully back up your iPhone data to PC before the erasing.  Wide compatibility: FoneTool works well with various iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch, as well as the latest iOS 17. So you can easily delete podcasts on iPad.

Come and download it on your Windows PC and discover how to erase data from your iPhone running iOS 17 or any other iOS version when your iPhone system data storage is too high.

Step 1. Launch FoneTool on your PC > Connect your iPhone to the computer with a USB cable > If asks, tap Trust on your iPhone.

Step 2. Go to Toolbox > choose Data Eraser.

Step 3. Click Erase private data > Choose Get Started.

Step 4. Tap each icon that needs to be erased and check Enable Deep Erase Technology if you want them unrecoverable, then click Start Erase.

Clear app cache

If you don’t want to use a third-party app to finish the process, you can clear caches from apps like Safari and Messages may help minimize the data categorized under System Data on your iPhone directly to fix the iPhone storage system data high issue.

For the Safari cache: Go to Settings > Click Safari > Choose Clear History and Website Data > Tap the Clear History and Data button in the pop-up window to confirm your choice.

For the Message cache: Just go to Settings, tap Messages, then locate Message History. Changing the retention period from Forever to a shorter duration, like one year or 30 days, can help.

Conclusion

From this full guide, you can know what is system data on iPhone, why it’s so high and how to fix the system data iPhone storage high issue efficiently. Using FoneTool can be the quickest way to make it and hope you can have a pleasant experience.