Users of mobile devices from the company Huawei often encounter a situation where the internal storage is filled to capacity. The system starts to work slower, applications crash, and there is simply nowhere to save new files. A dilemma arises: delete your favorite games and apps or look for alternative ways to solve the problem.
Fortunately, there are effective methods to free up gigabytes of valuable space without deleting the applications themselves. In this article we will examine in detail the standard shell tools EMUI i Magic UI, as well as specific settings that will help optimize the operation of your smartphone. You will learn how to safely delete temporary files and transfer data.
The main goal of our guide is to show you that junk files take up the lion's share of memory. We will look at the mechanics of the cache and hidden folders. This will allow you to restore the performance of the device without sacrificing the installed software. Let's start with an analysis of what exactly is taking up space.
Storage analysis: where gigabytes are hidden
Before taking active steps, you need to understand the structure of disk space. The standard settings menu provides detailed statistics. Go to Settings → Memoryto see a visualization of the occupied space.
Here you will find that the category "Other" often takes up a disproportionate amount of space. This is storage for system files, updates, and temporary application data. Sometimes this section swells to 10-15 GB for no apparent reason.
It is also worth paying attention to the section "Cache". This is data that apps save for faster loading. For example, social networks store viewed photos and videos here so as not to download them again every time they are opened.
Sometimes the system incorrectly calculates the size of categories. In this case, a simple reboot of the device helps, which forcibly updates the file indexing.
⚠️ Attention: If the “Other” section takes up more than 20 GB and does not shrink after a reboot, this may indicate a file system error or the presence of hidden debug logs.
Using the built-in cleaning manager
In every smartphone Huawei application "Phone Manager" (or "Optimizer") is preinstalled. This is the safest and fastest way to start cleaning. The application icon usually has the shape of a shield.
Having launched the app, click on the button "Cleaning". The system will automatically scan your device for junk files, duplicates, and outdated installation packages. The algorithm works quite aggressively, but does not affect the user’s personal data.
After scanning, you will see a list of categories that can be deleted. Pay special attention to section "Junk files". This includes advertising banners, temporary logs and remnants of deleted apps.
You should not ignore the button "Speedup" in the main menu of the dispatcher. Although it primarily frees up random access memory (RAM), it indirectly helps the system manage internal storage more correctly.
Run a complete cleanup through Phone Manager at least once a week to prevent the accumulation of a critical mass of junk files.
Manually clearing specific caches applications
Automatic cleaners do not always delete the entire cache, especially if it is protected by the system. To deeply clean messengers and browsers, you will need manual intervention in the settings.
Go to Settings → Applications → Applications. Select an application that consumes a lot of space (for example Telegram, YouTube or VK). Click on the item "Memory".
You will see two buttons: "Clear data" and "Clear cache". We need the second one. Clicking on it will delete temporary files, but will save your logins, passwords and correspondence.
It is strictly not recommended to click "Clear data" for messengers if you are not sure that you remember the password for account. This action will reset the application to its factory state, deleting all local history.
Why is the messenger cache so large?
Messengers save all sent and received media files (photos, videos, voices) to local memory for instant access. Over time, this database can reach tens of gigabytes, even if you deleted chat messages.
⚠️ Attention: Clearing the map cache (Google Maps, Yandex.Maps) will delete downloaded offline maps. You will have to download them again if there is no Internet.
Managing the gallery and cloud services
Media files are the main enemy of free memory. High-resolution photos and videos quickly fill up your storage. However, it is not at all necessary to delete them if you use the function "Free up space".
In the application Gallery go to the section "Albums" → "Recently Deleted". Often, users delete photos, but forget to empty this recycle bin, where the files are stored for another 30 days, taking up space.
Use the service Huawei Cloud or third-party solutions like Google Photos. Activate the synchronization function and then delete local copies. This will allow you to store the originals in the cloud, and leave only the thumbnails on the device.
Also check the folder DCIM → .thumbnails. This is a hidden folder with gallery thumbnails. It can grow to enormous sizes. It can be safely deleted through the file manager, the system will create it again if necessary.
| File type | Average size | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Photo (JPEG) | 3-5 MB | Compress or store in the cloud |
| Video (4K) | 300-500 MB/min | Transfer to PC or SD card |
| Cache Telegram | 1-10 GB | Clean through application settings |
| Offline cards | 0.5-2 GB (region) | Delete unused regions |
Transferring data to a memory card and to the cloud
If your smartphone Huawei supports memory cards of Nano Memory (NM) or microSD format, this is an ideal option for offloading internal memory. Modern models often lack a slot, but for older devices this is a lifesaver.
In the storage settings, you can change the default recording path. Set your memory card as the primary location for saving photos, videos, and browser downloads. To do this, select Settings → Storage → Default save location.
Applications can also be transferred, although this function is limited in new versions. Go to the application settings and check for the presence of the Android limited. Go to the application settings and check for the button "Move to SD card"button. If it is active, feel free to transfer heavy games.
For cloud storage, use not only branded services, but also Google Drive or Yandex.Disk. Set up auto-upload of photos, and then delete the originals from the device.
☑️ Preparing to transfer data
Specific settings for Huawei and Honor models
Shells EMUI i Magic UI have unique functions that affect memory. One of them is HiCare (or "Support"). This application has an optimization section that cleans system garbage deeper than the standard manager.
It is also worth disabling automatic downloading of application updates via the mobile network if you have limited traffic or little space. Go to AppGallery or Google Play and set up updating only via Wi-Fi.
Check the folder Download (Downloads). Browsers often download APK installation files that have already been installed. These files are no longer needed and take up space.
Some models have a function "Smart cleaning"that analyzes application usage. If you have not opened the app for a month, the system will offer to archive its data or delete it, freeing up space.
⚠️ Attention: The settings interface may vary slightly depending on the firmware version (EMUI 10, 11, 12 or Magic UI 4, 5, 6). If you do not find the menu item, use the search in the settings.
Regularly cleaning the "Downloads" folder and messenger cache can free up to 5-10 GB of memory monthly without losing important data.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it safe to delete .thumbnails folder in the gallery?
Yes, it is absolutely safe. The folder contains only thumbnail images for quick viewing in the gallery. The next time you open the album, the system will automatically recreate these files.
Why does the memory quickly fill up again after cleaning?
Most likely, you have automatic media downloading active in instant messengers (Telegram, WhatsApp). Go to the settings of these applications and disable auto-saving of photos and videos to the gallery.
Is it possible to delete Huawei system applications to free up space?
You cannot delete system applications without obtaining root access. Attempting to do this via ADB may result in system instability or loss of warranty. It is better to simply disable unused applications in the settings.
What to do if the "Other" section does not shrink?
Try making a full backup of the data to your computer, performing a factory reset and restoring the data. This is the only way to completely clear system garbage if it is caused by an indexing error.