39 GB of System Data and No Storage Left

So my iPhone 12 had 39 GB of system data used (in October of this year it was 20 GB) and now my iPhone as a whole has only 0.10 GB left to use out of 64 GB. I am at a loss for what to do as I have spent the last two months trying to solve this problem only for it to continually get worst. I got rid of 13 GB of photos, 5 GB of text, and almost all my apps except for the important ones that are basic or work related. Every app I delete is replaced with a GB of system data within two days, and I have tried every tip I can find to no avail. If anyone knows anything, my phone is currently unusable and cannot use maps or receive text messages so now I am left without the use of a phone.

Posted on Dec 9, 2025 10:26 AM

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2 replies

Dec 9, 2025 11:59 PM in response to Libbyel

39 GB of System Data and No Storage Left: So my iPhone 12 had 39 GB of system data used (in October of this year it was 20 GB) and now my iPhone as a whole has only 0.10 GB left to use out of 64 GB. I am at a loss for what to do as I have spent the last two months trying to solve this problem only for it to continually get worst.[…]

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Clearing System Data:

Use my User Tip: How to Clear "System Data" in your iPhone's Storage - User Tip

Dec 9, 2025 11:55 PM in response to Libbyel

If the above does not resolve the issue then...


I would ignore that because this system data will make room when you need more space on your iPhone. These are some cache and temporary files that will be erased by the system whenever you try to save more files.


You may --> Clear Other storage on your iPhone or iPad - Apple Support (IN)


Tap on System Data it will take you to "Other System Data"

Now the question is what is the "Other System Data" storage. Read on...


  • Other System Data: Non-removable mobile assets, like Siri voices, fonts, dictionaries, non-removable logs and caches, Spotlight index, and system data, such as Keychain and CloudKit Database. Cached files can't be deleted by the system.
  • System: Space taken by the operating system. This can vary based on your device and model.


About cached files in "Other System Data"

Finder and iTunes categorize cached music, videos, and photos as Other instead of actual songs, videos, or photos. Cached files are created when you stream or view content like music, videos, and photos. When you stream music or video, that content is stored as cached files on your device so you can quickly access it again.


Your device automatically removes cached files and temporary files when your device needs more space.


If storage on your device differs from what you see in Finder or iTunes

Since Finder and iTunes categorize cached files as Other, reported usage for Music or Videos might differ. To view usage on your device, go to Settings > General > [Device] Storage.


If you want to delete the cached files from your device

Your device automatically deletes cached files and temporary files when it needs more space. You don't need to delete them yourself.



39 GB of System Data and No Storage Left

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