If your Android phone or tablet feels slower than usual, you may not need new hardware just yet. A simple cache clean-up can improve performance, free up storage, and fix common glitches across almost all Android devices.
Google rolled out Android 16 this summer for Pixel devices and select OEMs, introducing performance upgrades and new Material You features.
However, even with the latest software, Android devices can slow down over time due to accumulated cached data.
Cached files help apps load faster, but they can become outdated or corrupted.
Restarting your phone may help, but clearing cache offers a more targeted way to restore responsiveness.
How to clear cached data from Android apps
What You Need
Any Android phone or tablet.
Steps may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer, but the overall process remains similar.
Step 1: View All Installed Apps
Open Settings, go to Storage, and tap Apps.
If you don’t see an Apps option, use the Settings search bar to find it quickly.
Some devices also offer a “Free up space” suggestion via the Google Files app.
Open Files, tap the three-line menu, select Clean, and review recommendations like unused apps or large files.
Step 2: Clear Cache for Individual Apps
Select an installed app, avoiding system services.
Tap Storage and cache, then choose Clear cache.
Avoid tapping Clear storage, as this will reset the app completely.
Clearing cache only removes temporary files.
Step 3: Repeat for Other Apps
Repeat the process for apps that consume the most space.
Social media apps and streaming services are usually the biggest storage users.
Some Android versions allow you to sort apps by size using the three-dot menu.
Certain devices may also include a “Clear all cache” option under Storage settings.
How to clear cache in Google Chrome on Android
Step 1: Open History Settings
Launch Chrome and tap the three-dot menu.
Go to History and select Clear browsing data.
Step 2: Choose Data to Delete
Select the time range and check Cached images and files.
Tap Clear data to complete the process.
Clearing cookies will log you out of websites, while cached images may reload slower initially.
Each option clearly explains its impact before deletion.
Step 3: Use the Quick Shortcut (Optional)
Newer Chrome versions offer Clear Browsing Data directly in the menu.
Selecting More options allows you to fine-tune what data to remove.
Common questions about clearing cache
Will Clearing Cache Delete App Data?
No.
Your accounts, settings, and saved data remain intact.
Will It Make My Device Faster?
Yes.
Removing outdated or corrupted cache files can fix lag and app crashes.
How Often Should Cache Be Cleared?
Only when you notice slowdowns or glitches.
For most users, clearing cache every three to six months is sufficient.
Is Cache Clearing Only for Storage?
No.
It also helps resolve app-related issues by forcing apps to rebuild temporary files.
