The cache on Android 10 is temporary files that are created by applications and the system to speed up work. Over time, they accumulate, taking up precious internal storage space and slowing down the device's performance. The problem is especially pressing for smartphones with 32-64 GB of memory, where every megabyte counts.

Unlike newer versions of Android, Android 10 (Q) has its own characteristics in cache management. For example, there is no built-in cache auto-cleaning function for all applications at once, and some system files require manual deletion via Developer settings. In this article, we will look at all the cleaning methods - from basic to advanced, including hidden methods for experienced users.

Why you need to clear the cache on Android 10

The cache performs a useful function - it speeds up the loading of frequently used data. But when its volume exceeds 1-2 GB, problems arise:

  • 📉 Slowdown —applications take longer to open, the system freezes when switching between tasks.
  • 🔋 Increased consumption batteries —background processes are constantly sorting through cached data.
  • 🚨 Errors in applications - outdated cache files may conflict with updated versions of apps (especially important for Google Play Services and Social networks).
  • 📱 Lack of memory - on devices with 32 GB the cache may occupy up to 10-15% of the total volume.

It is important to understand the difference between application cache and system cache (Dalvik-cache) The first can be deleted without consequences, but you need to be careful with the second - cleaning it can lead to it. to rebooting the device into optimization mode the next time you turn it on.

⚠️ Attention: On some firmware (for example, MIUI or ColorOS) clearing the system cache via Recovery can reset the network settings. Before the procedure, write down your Wi-Fi passwords.

How to clear the cache of individual applications

The safest way is to delete the cache for specific apps. This will not affect their operation, but will free up space.

Instructions:

  1. Open Settings → Applications and notifications → Show all applications.
  2. Select the desired application (for example, YouTube or Chrome).
  3. Click Storage and cache → Clear cache.

To speed up the process, you can sort applications by cache size:

  1. In the section Applications and notifications click on the three dots (⋮) in the upper right corner.
  2. Select Sort by size.
  3. Clear the cache for applications that take up more than 100-200 MB.

Facebook (500+ MB)

Google Play Services (300-800 MB)

Chrome (200-500 MB)

Instagram (100-300 MB)

YouTube (100-400 MB)-->

Do not clear the cache for Google Play Market and Google Play Services unless absolutely necessary - this may disrupt the operation of updates and push notifications.

Bulk clear cache of all applications

Android 10 does not have a built-in feature to clear the cache of all applications at once, but there are workarounds:

Method 1: Through Storage Settings

  1. Go to Settings → Device memory.
  2. Click on Cached data (at the bottom of the screen).
  3. Confirm clearing in the dialog box.

This method deletes only non-system cache (applications). System files remain intact.

Method 2: Using ADB (for advanced)

If you need to clear the cache for all user applications via your computer:

adb shell pm trim-caches -f 1000000000

Where 1000000000 —size in bytes (here 1 GB). The command will delete the cache for all applications exceeding this limit.

⚠️ Attention: Using ADB requires the USB debugging v Developer settingsmode to be enabled. system.

Once a week

Once a month

Only when memory runs out

Never clearing-->

Clearing the system cache (Dalvik-cache)

The system cache (Dalvik-cache) contains optimized versions of applications for fast loading. Clearing it can help if:

  • 🐢 The smartphone slows down a lot after. updates.
  • 🔄 Applications constantly crash with an error "The application has stopped".
  • 📱 The device overheats for no apparent reason.

To clean:

  1. Turn off the phone.
  2. Hold the combination of buttons to enter Recovery (usually Power + Volume up, but depends on the model).
  3. V select recovery menu Wipe cache partition (control with volume buttons, select with power button).
  4. Confirm the action and reboot the device.

After cleaning, the first start of the system will take 1-2 minutes longer - Android will rebuild the cache.

What will happen if you clear Dalvik-cache on custom firmware?

On some custom firmwares (for example, LineageOS or Pixel Experience), clearing Dalvik-cache can lead to a loopy reboot if the firmware kernel is not compatible with the current version of Android. In this case, you will need to re-flash the firmware. via fastboot or TWRP.

Cache type Clearing method Consequences Recommended frequency
Cache applications Through Settings → Storage Safe, data is not deleted 1 time every 1-2 months
Browser cache In settings Chrome/Firefox Log out of accounts on websites once a month
Dalvik-cache Via Recovery Long first boot Only in case of problems
Google Play cache Settings → Applications → Google Play Temporary update errors Rarely, as needed

Clearing browser cache (Chrome, Firefox, Samsung Internet)

Browsers accumulate cache faster than other applications - not only pages are stored here, but also cookies, history, autofill data.

Google Chrome

  1. Open Chrome, click ⋮ → History → Clear data.
  2. Select period (All time for complete cleaning).
  3. Tick the following boxes:
    • 🗃️ Cookies and site data
    • 🖼️ Cached images and files
  • Click Delete data.

    • Mozilla Firefox

    In Firefox, you can clear the cache without deleting history:

    1. Go to Settings → Delete personal data.
    2. Uncheck all the boxes except Cache.
    3. Click Clear data.
    💡

    If the browser runs slower after clearing the cache, try disabling the "Preload pages" option in the settings. This will reduce the background. activity, but will increase the loading time of new tabs.

    Automatic cache clearing: applications and settings

    Manual cleaning is tedious, so many users install third-party utilities The best options for Android 10:

    • 🧹 SD Maid - deep cleaning, including residual files after. uninstallation.
    • 🔍 CCleaner —a simple interface, but requires caution with permission to access files.
    • 📊 Files by Google —a built-in cleaner from Google with analysis of “junk” files.

    Setting up automatic cleaning in Files by Google:

    1. Open the application, go to tab Cleaning.
    2. Click Settings → Auto cleaning.
    3. Turn on the option and select the frequency (for example, Every week).
    ⚠️ Attention: Automatic cleaners can delete useful data if they are configured incorrectly. For example, SD Maid by default clears the folder Downloadwhere important files may be stored. Always check the list before confirming.

    What to do if clearing the cache did not help

    If after clearing the cache problems remain, check:

    • 📱 Free disk space - if less than 10% of the total volume, the system starts to slow down. Delete unnecessary files or transfer them to an SD card.
    • 🔄 Background processes - open Settings → Battery → Battery usage and check which applications are consuming more. 5% charge in the background.
    • 🛠️ File system errors —check via Settings → Memory → Diagnostics (not available on all devices).

    If the brakes are related to Google Play Services, try:

    1. Clear cache and application data (Settings → Applications → Google Play Services → Storage).
    2. Update services via Google Play Store.
    3. Reboot the device.
    💡

    If after all manipulations the smartphone continues slow down, the reason may be wear and tear of the internal memory (especially on budget models after 2-3 years of use). In this case, only replacing the drive or buying a new device will help.

    FAQ: Frequently asked questions about clearing the cache on Android 10

    Is it possible to clear the cache for all applications at once without root?

    Yes, but not completely. Through Settings → Memory → Cached data only user cache files are deleted. System applications (for example, Android System WebViewrequire manual cleaning or superuser rights.

    Why after clearing the cache some Applications run slower?

    This is normal - applications need time to restore optimized data. Typically, performance returns to its previous level after 1-2 launches. The exception is games with large texture packs (for example, Genshin Impact or Call of Duty Mobile), which may take longer to load.

    Is it safe to clear the cache for system applications (for example, Phone or Contacts)?

    Yes, but with reservations. Cache Phone or Contacts can be deleted without the risk of data loss. However, clearing the cache for Settings (com.android.settings) can reset some interface settings (for example, the order of icons on the Home screen).

    How to clear the cache for an application that does not open?

    Use the ADB command: 

    adb shell pm clear package.applications

    To find out the package name, run:

    adb shell pm list packages grep "name"

    For example, for Instagram this com.instagram.android.

    Why does the cache quickly accumulate again?

    Reasons:

    • 📱 Frequent use of “heavy” applications (social networks, streaming services).
    • 🔄 Automatic update of applications in the background.
    • 📡 Poor Internet connection - browsers and instant messengers cache more data for offline access.

    Solution: limit background activity in Settings → Applications → Special access → Battery optimization.