How to Delete Other Files on Internal Storage Android

Deleting files on your Android device’s internal storage is a common task that many users need to perform. Whether you want to free up space, organize your files, or simply remove unwanted data, knowing how to delete other files on your internal storage can be incredibly useful. In this blog post, we will explore different methods for deleting files on Android and provide insights into the pros and cons of each option.

What’s Needed

To delete other files on your Android device’s internal storage, you will need:

  • An Android device
  • Access to the device’s internal storage
  • The file manager app installed on your device
  • Basic knowledge of navigating through your device’s file system

Video Tutorial:

What Requires Your Focus?

When deleting other files on your Android device, there are several important factors that require your attention:

  • Identifying the files you want to delete: It’s essential to determine which files you want to delete to avoid accidentally removing important data.
  • Choosing the appropriate deletion method: Depending on the type of files and your intentions, different deletion methods may be more suitable.
  • Understanding the implications of file deletion: Deleting files may have consequences, such as data loss, so it’s crucial to be aware of any potential impacts.
  • Ensuring data backup: Before deleting any files, it’s advisable to back up important data to prevent irreversible loss.

Option 1: How to Delete Other Files via File Manager

Using a file manager app is one of the most straightforward methods to delete other files on Android. Follow these steps:

1. Open the file manager app on your Android device.
2. Navigate to the internal storage or the specific folder where the files you want to delete are located.
3. Long-press on the file you want to delete.
4. Tap on the "Delete" option or the trash bin icon.
5. Confirm the deletion when prompted.

Pros:

  • Simple and user-friendly process
  • Accessible through various file manager apps
  • Allows for selective deletion

Cons:

  • May take longer if deleting multiple files
  • Requires manual identification and selection of files
  • Does not provide advanced options for file management

Option 2: How to Delete Other Files via Settings

Another method to delete other files on Android is through the device’s settings. Here’s what to do:

1. Open the "Settings" app on your Android device.
2. Scroll down and tap on "Storage" or "Storage & USB" (may vary depending on the device and Android version).
3. Tap on "Internal storage" or a similar option.
4. Select the category of files you want to delete, such as "Downloads" or "Documents."
5. Tap on the files you want to delete or use the "Select all" option.
6. Tap on the "Delete" or trash bin icon.
7. Confirm the deletion when prompted.

Pros:

  • Native Android feature available on most devices
  • Allows for bulk deletion based on file categories
  • Provides a system-level overview of storage usage

Cons:

  • Limited to deleting files in specific categories
  • Does not offer granular control over individual file deletion
  • May not be available on older Android versions or custom ROMs

Option 3: How to Delete Other Files via Third-Party Apps

There are various third-party apps available on the Google Play Store that offer advanced file management and deletion capabilities. Follow these steps:

1. Open the Google Play Store on your Android device.
2. Search for and install a reliable file manager app of your choice (e.g., ES File Explorer, Solid Explorer, or Astro File Manager).
3. Open the file manager app.
4. Navigate to the location of the files you want to delete.
5. Select the files you want to delete.
6. Tap on the delete or trash bin icon.
7. Confirm the deletion when prompted.

Pros:

  • Offers advanced file management features
  • Allows for searching and filtering specific file types
  • Offers cloud integration for managing files across different platforms

Cons:

  • May require additional app downloads and setup
  • Some apps may include ads or offer premium features at a cost
  • Not all apps may be optimized for all Android devices

Option 4: How to Delete Other Files via USB Connection

If you prefer managing files on your Android device from your computer, using a USB connection is an effective method. Here’s what to do:

1. Connect your Android device to your computer using a USB cable.
2. On your Android device, pull down the notification shade and tap on the USB connection notification.
3. Select "Transfer files" or "File transfer" mode (may vary depending on the device).
4. On your computer, open the file explorer (e.g., Windows Explorer or Finder) and navigate to your Android device.
5. Locate the files you want to delete on your Android device.
6. Right-click on the files and select "Delete" or press the "Delete" key on your keyboard.

Pros:

  • Allows for file management from a familiar desktop environment
  • Offers more control and flexibility in file selection and deletion
  • Suitable for managing a large number of files

Cons:

  • Requires a USB connection and compatible computer
  • May involve additional steps for enabling USB file transfer mode
  • Relies on the availability of a computer

Why Can’t I Delete Other Files?

If you are unable to delete other files on your Android device, there could be a few reasons:

1. File permissions: Some files may have restricted permissions that prevent deletion. Ensure that you have the necessary permissions to modify or delete the files.

2. System files: Certain files are essential for the proper functioning of your Android device and cannot be deleted. Deleting system files may lead to instability or issues with your device.

3. Corrupted files: If the files you want to delete are corrupted or have become unreadable, your device may not allow you to delete them. In such cases, it’s advisable to format or reset your device.

Implications and Recommendations

When deleting other files on your Android device’s internal storage, keep the following implications and recommendations in mind:

1. Data loss: Deleting files means they will be permanently removed from your device. Always make sure to back up important files before deletion to prevent data loss.

2. External storage: If your Android device has an external storage option, consider moving files to external storage instead of deleting them, as it provides an alternative solution and preserves the files.

3. App cache: Deleting app cache can help free up storage space without losing important data. Go to "Settings > Apps > [App Name] > Storage" and tap on "Clear cache."

The Bottom Line

Deleting other files on your Android device’s internal storage is a necessary task to manage storage space and ensure a smooth user experience. By utilizing the available options, such as file managers, settings, third-party apps, or USB connections, you can effectively delete unwanted files while considering the implications and recommendations outlined in this blog post.

5 FAQs about Deleting Other Files on Internal Storage Android

Q1: Can I recover deleted files from the internal storage of my Android device?

A1: Once files are deleted from the internal storage of an Android device, they are typically not recoverable without specialized software. It’s crucial to back up important files before deletion to avoid permanent data loss.

Q2: How can I check the storage space available on my Android device?

A2: To check the storage space on your Android device, go to "Settings > Storage" or "Settings > Storage & USB." This will display an overview of the total storage capacity and the amount of space used by different file categories.

Q3: Can I undelete files on my Android device?

A3: While some file manager apps or recovery software may offer limited file recovery capabilities, it’s generally challenging to undelete files from the internal storage of an Android device. It’s best to regularly back up important data and use data recovery methods immediately after accidental deletion.

Q4: Will deleting files from the internal storage affect app performance?

A4: Deleting unused or unneeded files, such as app cache files, can potentially improve app performance by freeing up storage space and reducing clutter. However, deleting important system files or necessary app data may cause stability issues or hinder app functionality.

Q5: How often should I delete other files on my Android device?

A5: The frequency of deleting other files on your Android device depends on your storage needs and usage patterns. Regularly reviewing and deleting unnecessary files can help optimize storage space and device performance. Consider performing file deletions periodically or whenever storage space becomes limited.