How to delete WhatsApp files - briefly?
To delete WhatsApp files, you can do so directly from the app or through your device's file manager. Within the app, go to Settings > Storage and Data > Manage Storage, then select the files or conversations you wish to delete. Alternatively, use your device’s file manager to locate the WhatsApp folder and manually remove unwanted files.
How to delete WhatsApp files - in detail?
Deleting WhatsApp files can help free up storage space on your device and improve its performance. Here’s a detailed guide on how to delete various types of WhatsApp files:
Deleting Media Files (Photos, Videos, GIFs)
WhatsApp media files often take up the most space. To delete them:
- Open WhatsApp and go to the chat containing the media file you want to delete.
- Press and hold on the media file until a menu appears at the top of your screen.
- Tap on the "Delete" icon (a trash can).
- Confirm by tapping "Delete for Me" if you want to remove it only from your device, or "Delete for Everyone" if you want to delete it from both your and the recipient's devices (this option is available only for a short period after sending).
Clearing WhatsApp Cache
Clearing the cache can also help free up space:
- Go to your phone’s Settings.
- Navigate to "Apps" or "Application Manager."
- Find and tap on WhatsApp.
- Tap on "Storage" or "Storage & Cache."
- Clear the cache by tapping on "Clear Cache."
Deleting Conversations
If you want to delete entire conversations:
- Open WhatsApp and go to the chat you want to delete.
- Tap on the three dots (⋮) in the top-right corner of the screen.
- Select "More" or "Delete Chat."
- Confirm by tapping "Delete."
Deleting Backups
WhatsApp backups can also take up significant space:
- Go to your phone’s Settings.
- Navigate to "Storage" and then "Other Apps."
- Find WhatsApp in the list and tap on it.
- Tap on "Clear Data" to delete all local backups. Note that this will not affect cloud backups.
Using Storage Management Tools
WhatsApp itself offers a storage management tool:
- Open WhatsApp and go to "Settings."
- Navigate to "Storage and Data."
- Tap on "Manage Storage."
- Here, you can see the largest files and forwarded media. You can delete these directly from this interface.
By following these steps, you can effectively manage and delete WhatsApp files, ensuring your device remains clutter-free and performs optimally.