Releasing Storage Space on Your Android Device with the Files by Google Application
Google Files Provides a Variety of Storage-Saving Tools: Here’s How to Utilize Them
In a time when smartphones boast impressive features, numerous Android users continue to encounter a familiar challenge — restricted on-device storage. Even in 2025, a considerable number of Android smartphones, including various models from Samsung and Google, come equipped with only 128GB of storage or less. As apps, images, videos, and downloads rapidly consume space, effectively managing your storage is crucial.
Thankfully, Google presents a robust answer with its complimentary Files by Google app. This tool not only assists users in browsing and organizing files but also incorporates a selection of space-saving features designed to maintain a tidy device. Whether you’re utilizing an economical Android phone or the latest Google Pixel 9, Files by Google can aid you in recovering essential storage space.
Here’s an overview of the most beneficial functionalities in Files by Google and how to utilize them effectively.
Utilizing the Clean Tool to Liberate Space
The Clean tool is among the most user-friendly and efficient features within the Files by Google app. It examines your device for unwanted files such as duplicates, outdated screenshots, memes, and unnecessary files, then proposes what you can safely discard.
To use the Clean tool:
1. Launch the Files by Google app.
2. Tap on the three-line menu icon located in the top-left corner.
3. Select the Clean tab.
4. Tap the arrow icon next to your storage summary for an in-depth view of space utilization.
5. Browse through the suggested deletions, such as “Remove old screenshots” or “Eliminate junk files.”
6. Choose the files you wish to delete and tap “Move files to Trash.”
This procedure allows you to swiftly clear out clutter and free up space without having to sift through folders manually.
Clearing the Trash to Permanently Erase Files
After employing the Clean tool, your files will be shifted to the Trash, where they’ll remain for 30 days before being deleted automatically. To instantly recover that space, you need to manually empty the Trash.
Here’s how:
1. Launch the Files by Google app.
2. Tap the three-line menu icon.
3. Select the Trash tab.
4. Pick the files you intend to delete permanently.
5. Tap Delete twice to confirm.
This guarantees that removed files are entirely eliminated from your device, promptly freeing up storage space.
Activating Smart Storage on Pixel Phones
If you own a Google Pixel phone, you get access to a unique feature known as Smart Storage. This feature automatically removes photos and videos that have already been backed up to Google Photos and have been on your device for over 60 days.
To enable Smart Storage:
1. Launch the Files by Google app.
2. Tap the three-line menu icon.
3. Navigate to the Settings tab.
4. Toggle on Smart Storage.
Once activated, Smart Storage functions in the background to keep unnecessary media files off your device, ensuring your storage is used efficiently.
Reasons to Regularly Free Up Space
Many individuals only consider storage when they are out of it — typically at the most inconvenient times, such as when trying to download a new app or capture a video. Nevertheless, proactively managing your storage can avert these problems entirely.
Images, videos, and even text messages can pile up rapidly and take up substantial space. Consistently evaluating and removing unwanted content helps enhance your phone’s performance and guarantees you always have space for what is most important.
Whether you’re using a mid-tier Android phone or the premium Google Pixel 9, Files by Google is an essential tool for maintaining your device’s smooth operation. Its user-friendly interface and powerful functions make it simple to manage storage without relying on third-party applications.
Final Thoughts
Files by Google is more than a mere file manager — it’s a clever, effective means to stay ahead of your phone’s storage needs. With features like Clean, Trash, and Smart Storage, you can effortlessly identify and eliminate clutter, making space for new applications, media, and memories.
If you haven’t yet done so, download Files by Google from the Play Store and take command of your device’s storage today. Your phone — and your future self — will be grateful.
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