Clearing your iPhone 7 Plus's cache can significantly improve its performance. A cluttered cache can lead to slowdowns, app crashes, and even storage issues. This guide provides clear, step-by-step instructions on how to clear your iPhone 7 Plus cache, focusing on the most effective methods. We'll cover both clearing individual app caches and addressing the system-wide cache.
Understanding iPhone Cache
Before diving into the steps, let's clarify what the cache is. Your iPhone, like any smartphone, uses a cache to store temporary files that speed up app loading and overall system performance. However, over time, this cache can become bloated with outdated or unnecessary data. This leads to performance issues. Unlike Android devices, iPhones don't offer a single, centralized cache clearing option. Instead, you need to approach this process app-by-app or by resetting specific system settings.
Method 1: Clearing Individual App Caches
This method focuses on clearing the cache for specific apps that are exhibiting sluggish performance. Unfortunately, there isn't a direct "clear cache" button within most iOS apps. The solution is to force-quit the app and, in some cases, delete and reinstall it.
Steps to Force Quit an App:
- Double-click the Home button: This will bring up the app switcher.
- Locate the app: Find the app whose cache you want to clear.
- Swipe up on the app's preview: This will force-quit the app, clearing its temporary memory cache. Note that this doesn't clear all cached data, but it's a good first step.
When to Delete and Reinstall:
If force-quitting doesn't solve the problem, deleting and reinstalling the app is a more thorough approach. This completely removes all app data, including cached files. Remember to back up any important data within the app before doing this.
- Tap and hold the app icon: On your home screen.
- Select "Delete App": Confirm your choice.
- Reinstall the app: Download it again from the App Store.
Method 2: Clearing the Safari Cache and History
Safari, your iPhone's built-in web browser, also stores a significant amount of cached data. Clearing this cache can significantly improve browsing speed and efficiency.
Steps to Clear Safari Cache and History:
- Open the Settings app: This is the grey icon with gears.
- Tap "Safari": This will open the Safari settings menu.
- Tap "Clear History and Website Data": Confirm your choice. This will delete your browsing history, cookies, and cached website data.
Method 3: Resetting Network Settings (Advanced)
As a more drastic measure, resetting your network settings can clear out any corrupted network cache data. However, this will also reset your Wi-Fi passwords, Bluetooth connections and VPN settings.
Warning: This action should be taken as a last resort. Back up any important data before proceeding.
Steps to Reset Network Settings:
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap "General".
- Tap "Transfer or Reset iPhone".
- Tap "Reset".
- Tap "Reset Network Settings".
- Enter your passcode to confirm.
Maintaining a Clean iPhone
Regularly clearing app caches and occasionally resetting your network settings can help maintain optimal performance on your iPhone 7 Plus. Consider implementing these steps as part of your regular phone maintenance routine to prevent future performance issues. Remember that deleting and reinstalling apps is the most thorough way to clear app-specific cached data, but it requires reinstalling the app.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Will clearing the cache delete my photos and videos?
A: No, clearing the cache will not delete your personal files, photos, videos, or other important data.
Q: How often should I clear my iPhone's cache?
A: There's no set schedule. Clear the cache of individual apps when they become sluggish. Clearing Safari's history and data can be done weekly or monthly, depending on your usage. Resetting network settings should only be done as a last resort when other methods fail.
Q: My iPhone is still slow after clearing the cache. What should I do?
A: If the problem persists, consider updating your iOS software to the latest version, restoring your iPhone to factory settings (remember to back up first!), or contacting Apple Support for further assistance. You might also have a hardware issue.
By following these steps, you can effectively manage your iPhone 7 Plus's cache and maintain optimal device performance. Remember to always back up your data before performing any major resets.
