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iPhone storage shows full even after deleting large video files

You delete several big videos, expect to see free space again, and nothing changes. Storage still shows full. Apps won’t update, photos won’t save, and the numbers in Settings feel stuck. This is a common iPhone behavior, and in most cases the files are gone — the system just hasn’t reclaimed the space yet.

The quick answer: iOS often keeps deleted videos temporarily or delays recalculating storage. Clearing Recently Deleted items and forcing the system to refresh storage usually fixes it.

Check the Recently Deleted Folder First

When you delete videos from the Photos app, they are not removed immediately. They move to a holding area and still count toward storage.

  1. Open Photos.
  2. Scroll down and tap Recently Deleted.
  3. Tap Select.
  4. Choose Delete All or remove large videos manually.
  5. Confirm permanent deletion.

Wait about 30 seconds, then check Settings → General → iPhone Storage again. Sometimes the space updates instantly, sometimes it takes a minute.

Force iOS to Recalculate Storage

iOS doesn’t always refresh storage numbers in real time, especially after deleting large media files.

Try this simple reset:

  1. Open Settings → General → iPhone Storage.
  2. Stay on the screen for about 20–30 seconds.
  3. Scroll slowly up and down once or twice.

This sounds minor, but it often triggers a background recalculation.

If nothing changes, restart the phone:

  1. Hold the side button and volume button.
  2. Slide to power off.
  3. Wait 20 seconds, then turn it back on.

Look for Hidden Video Copies in Messages or Apps

Videos shared through Messages, WhatsApp, or editing apps can create duplicate files. Deleting the original video doesn’t remove these copies.

Check here:

  • Settings → General → iPhone Storage → Messages and review large attachments.
  • Video editing apps like CapCut or iMovie that store exported versions.
  • Cloud apps that downloaded offline copies.

Removing large attachments from Messages alone can free several gigabytes.

Wait for Background Cleanup (Yes, Really)

After deleting very large files, iOS may spend time reorganizing storage in the background. During this period, the storage bar can remain full even though space is already being freed internally.

Plug the phone into power, connect to Wi-Fi, and leave it locked for 10–15 minutes. The system often completes cleanup quietly during idle time.

If Storage Still Looks Wrong

One last reliable method is forcing cache cleanup:

  1. Open Settings → Safari.
  2. Tap Clear History and Website Data.

This doesn’t affect saved passwords but removes cached files that sometimes prevent storage from updating correctly.

After doing these steps, reopen the iPhone Storage screen. In nearly all cases, the freed space finally appears and the device behaves normally again.