How to reduce System Data and free up space on iPhone 12 running iOS 18?

iPhone 12 storage full 63.8/64 GB It doesn’t matter what I do I can’t free up space. I’ve deleted everything I can and it seems as if my System Data increases, it’s at 36.35/64 now. I haven’t been able to install updates for months. IOS 18 please help.

[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Original Title: IPhone12 Storage Full

Posted on Oct 24, 2026 7:43 AM

1 reply

WheelieNick

Level 9 (74,110 points)

Oct 24, 2026 7:56 AM in response to Sue847

Hi there

please try thi s

Safari stores massive amounts of temporary website data, offline reading lists, and history that count directly toward System Data.

Go to Settings > Safari.
Scroll down and tap Clear History and Website Data.
Go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage > Safari, tap Website Data, and tap Remove All Website Data. [1, 2]

Step 2: Delete and Reinstall Bloated Social Media Apps

Apps like Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and Discord hide gigabytes of local cache inside System Data that iOS won't let you clear with a simple button.

Do not just offload them—offloading keeps the corrupted cache files behind.
Delete the apps completely by pressing and holding their icons, then tapping Delete App.
Restart your iPhone, then go to the App Store and download them fresh.