How to Clear Cache on Android

Edited 3 weeks ago by ExtremeHow Editorial Team

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Clearing the cache on your Android device can solve many problems such as improving performance, fixing app issues, and freeing up storage space. This guide will detail the different methods you can use to clear the cache on Android smartphones and tablets. Let's first understand what cache is and why it's important.

Understanding cache

Cache is temporary storage for data that the app uses frequently to work more efficiently. Instead of downloading or creating the same data over and over again, the app stores this information for quick access. There are two types of cache on Android:

1. App cache: These are specific files that are stored by individual apps to load faster.
2. System cache: These files are stored by the Android OS to speed up system performance.

Why clear the cache?

Clearing the cache can be beneficial for several reasons:

• Free up space: Cached data takes up storage space on your device.
• Performance improvements: Over time, too much cached data can slow down your device.
• Fix issues: Sometimes cached data can become corrupted, causing apps to misbehave.
• Address privacy concerns: Cached data may include personal information that you don’t want stored.

How to clear the app cache

The process of clearing the app cache involves going into your device’s settings. Here are the steps:

Step-by-step guide

1. Open the Settings menu on your Android device.
2. Scroll down and select Apps.
3. You will see a list of all installed apps. Tap on the app whose cache you want to clear.
4. Once you're in the app's settings, tap Storage.
5. Next, tap on Clear Cache.

Repeat these steps for each app whose cache you want to clear.

How to clear the system cache

Clearing the system cache can help improve the overall performance of your Android device. Here's how you can do it:

Step-by-step guide

1. Turn off your Android device completely.
2. Press and hold the Power and Volume Up buttons simultaneously until the device logo appears.
3. Release the Power button but keep holding the Volume Up button until you see Android Recovery Mode.
4. Use the Volume buttons to navigate to Wipe Cache Partition and use the Power button to select it.
5. Confirm your selection by tapping Yes and pressing the Power button again.
6. Wait for the process to complete, then select Reboot System Now.

Your device will restart and the system cache will be cleared.

Using third-party apps to clear the cache

There are many third-party apps designed to help you clear cache and manage storage. These apps can simplify the process and provide additional features. Some popular apps include:

• CCleaner: A popular app for clearing cache and optimizing storage.
• Clean Master: Known for its comprehensive cleaning tools and performance enhancements.
• SD Maid: Provides advanced tools for managing files and clearing cache.

To use these apps:

1. Go to the Google Play Store on your Android device.
2. Find the cleaning app you want to use (e.g., CCleaner, Clean Master, or SD Maid).
3. Download and install the app.
4. Open the app and follow the instructions to clear cache and manage storage.

Automating cache clearing

If you find clearing the cache manually a hassle, you can automate the process using Tasker or other automation apps. Here is how you can use Tasker to clear the cache automatically:

Step-by-step guide

1. Download and install Tasker from the Google Play Store.
2. Open Tasker and create a new profile.
3. Select a context such as time, day, or event to trigger cache clearing.
4. Create a new task and add an action.
5. Select the app, then choose Clear app data or use a shell command to clear the cache.
6. Save profile and tasks.

Tasker will now automatically clear the cache based on the context you set.

Precautions and things to keep in mind

Although clearing the cache can be beneficial, you should still take some precautions:

• Back up important data: Make sure you have a backup of important data in case something goes wrong.
• Don't clear data: Be careful clearing data instead of cache, as this may result in loss of app settings and user data.
• Use trusted apps: When using third-party apps to clear cache, make sure they are from trusted developers to avoid security and privacy risks.
• Factory reset: If you are considering performing a factory reset to clear the cache, remember that this will erase all data on your device. Always backup your data before proceeding.

Conclusion

Clearing the cache on an Android device is a simple process that can lead to better performance and more free storage space. There are several ways to clear the cache, including using built-in settings, third-party apps, and automation tools. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily manage the cache on your Android device and enjoy a seamless experience. Remember to take the necessary precautions to avoid any data loss or security issues.

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