How to clear the cache on Android: instructions

Any gadget starts to freeze over time. This is usually due to the fact that the device is running out of free space. Therefore, system utilities are slow, glitchy, and new applications are not installed. Let's look at how to solve this problem at home by cleaning the tablet's memory.

Relevant for Apple devices on iOS and iPadOS and popular brands on Android: Acer, Asus, Digma, Explay, Huawei Mediapad (also Highway), IRBIS, Lenovo, Oysters / Oysters, Prestigio / Prestigio, Samsung Galaxy Tab / Samsung Galaxy Tab.

To start

To save the device from freezing, you need to find the reason for the appearance of “brakes”. Problems can be in the hardware of the device, and in the internal memory, which needs to be cleaned from time to time for the gadget to work properly.

Types of memory

It is enough for the average user to understand that there are two types of memory:

operational - it is used only for temporary data storage,
internal, permanent (non-volatile) - a kind of “hard drive” where all files and programs are stored.

To avoid freezing, you need to constantly monitor their fill level.

Why does the tablet slow down and freeze?

First of all, check the RAM - it clogs up when too many applications are running in the background at the same time. Suspicions also fall on viruses and Trojans. In addition, do not forget to check your antivirus: it may be mistakenly blocking safe utilities and preventing them from working normally.

Much less often, but still there are problems from the hardware side - that is, problems inside the device itself. To fix them, you will have to go to a service center.

Boot into Safe Mode (Android)

For self-diagnosis on Android, put the tablet in safe mode. In this mode, the device works as it is by factory settings: without “background” programs from Google Play, manufacturer’s proprietary launchers and other applications. Connection to Wi-Fi and mobile traffic will be unavailable.

To enable Safe Mode:

Press the power button and in the menu that appears, long hold the “Restart” button (on some devices - “Shutdown” or “Power Off”).
Confirm the action and safe mode will be activated.

Now use your device as usual to troubleshoot any problems. If the picture has changed dramatically, the problem is that the RAM or internal storage is full. If the “brakes” continue, it is either a matter of firmware or hardware failure. In the first case, you can fix the problem at home, in the second - only through repair, or try to reflash it at your own peril and risk.

Replacement for Safe Mode on iOS: Resetting parameters via DFU mode

What types of cache memory are there?

On an Android tablet there are three in the form of cache memory:

dalvik;
systemic;
applications.

Dalvik cache – these are files that are created by a special system of the same name. In a sense, this data is instructions that allow you to launch applications faster. They are hidden in a protected section of memory, and the user cannot access them. They are unprofitable and need to be cleaned, since otherwise the harvest of the entire system may be disrupted.

System cache - data that is created by the applications itself is stored here, that is, the difference is that the dalvik cache is needed so that applications can work in principle, and the system cache speeds up their work. It is important to understand that the system cache is application files that are installed in the device by default, that is, those that the owner of the Tablet PC cannot remove.

The application cache is information necessary for the fast operation of applications installed by the user. Especially these files usually slow down the system and clutter up the memory. In fact, to the memory on the tablet - this means clearing the application cache.

How to clear memory

You can use several methods to free up space on your tablet and improve productivity. In general, they can be divided into manual and automatic. When cleaning manually, you look for the problem yourself; in automatic mode, you launch the desired “cleaner”.

Manually

Manual cleaning, although tedious, in some cases turns out to be much more effective than automatic cleaning. We recommend trying all options, not just one.

Delete or move files

The simplest idea is to destroy unnecessary and “heavy” photos, videos, music, archives, and so on. If you really need the files, transfer them to an SD card. If there is no slot for such a “flash drive” or it is already full, transfer the data to a computer or phone using a USB cable.

Some programs (for example, file managers on Android) have recycle bins for temporarily deleted files. Check that they are empty.

Application cache

Every program you use remembers logins, passwords, message texts, etc. This takes up a lot of space.

To clean your Android tablet, go to Settings → Applications → Show All. A complete list will appear, which can be sorted by size through the three-dot menu. Then go to the properties of each, select “Storage” and clear the cache.

On an iPad, the size of the application and its data can be viewed in the “Settings” → “General” → “Storage and iCloud Usage” → “Storage: Manage” menu. Programs are immediately sorted by disk space, but you can only delete them entirely.

In detail: 5 ways to delete an application from an iPad from any iOS

"Garbage" in the browser

The browser cache stores cookies, logins, passwords, requests to search engines and copies of pages that you downloaded. To erase them, go to the browser menu and find the “Clear history” button:

Google Chrome: “three dots” → “History” → “Clear history...”,
Yandex.Browser: “three dots” → “Settings” → “Privacy” block → “Clear data”,
Mozilla Firefox: “three dots” → “Options” → “Delete my data”,
Opera: Opera button → “Settings” → “Privacy” block → “Clear browsing history...”.
Opera Mini: Opera button → “Settings” icon → “General” block → “Clear browsing history...”,
Microsoft Edge: Favorites and History button on the right → Trash icon → Clear History.

All browsers will ask you to choose which data to part with: browsing history, cookies, downloaded files, or all at once.

Delete messages

We recommend clearing old SMS messages, MMS and correspondence on WhatsApp, Viber and Telegram. “Long-press” one conversation, select the others you want to erase along with it, and click “Delete” or the trash can icon.

Messengers, as a rule, automatically save any sent photos, videos and GIFs. Folders with them must be manually deleted from the gallery (names “WhatsApp / Viber Images” or similar) - and, if necessary, auto-downloading must be disabled:

WhatsApp: “Settings” → “Data and storage” → “Startup” block. In the “Storage” item, you can erase media from specific correspondences.
Viber: “More” → “Settings” → “Data and multimedia” → checkboxes “Autoload on GSM network” and “via Wi-Fi”. Erase everything downloaded: “Memory management” → “Data on device” → “Clear” button.
Telegram: “Settings” → “Data and memory” → “Autoload media” block. Clear cache: “Memory usage” → “Clear cache” and “Local database”.

Remove apps

Game lovers are most often faced with a constant lack of space on their device. Examine what you downloaded that you no longer need or rarely uses. Try erasing or hiding Google and tablet manufacturer system programs.

Using programs

There are many “cleaner” apps on the market. Their method of operation is very similar - the utility searches for unnecessary data and offers to delete all files or only part. They are usually released in free and paid versions - without advertising and with a large number of features. Whether you should use them is up to you to decide. All programs are fully or partially translated into Russian.

IMPORTANT! Do not use sites and utilities that offer “online cleaning” - as a rule, they are produced by scammers, you are guaranteed to catch a virus.

CCleaner

CCleaner cleans the RAM, removes temporary and technical files that consume up to 80% of the charge. Several cleaning methods are offered: simple and deep. They differ only in operating time.

Paid version: no ads, with cleaning scheduler. How to clean: click “Analyze”, wait until the end of the scan and choose what to delete.

Clean Master / Clean Master Lite

This cleaner optimizes RAM, clears the cache, and hides pop-up advertising and junk notifications. The light version is intended for devices with memory up to a gigabyte.

Paid version: no ads, with cleaning scheduler, antivirus and “VPN connection”. How to clean: click “Clean” (at first launch it will ask for several permissions), wait until the end of the scan and erase the necessary files

SD Maid

The utility cleans the “tails” of already deleted programs - files that they used but did not erase themselves.

Paid version: with a cleaning scheduler, cleaning the cache of installed programs and duplicate files. How to clean: click “Scan” (at first launch it will ask for several permissions), wait until the end of the scan, delete what is required.

GO Speed

In addition to clearing cache and garbage, it allows you to disable unnecessary system utilities. Judging by reviews on Google Play, it does not work well with Android 6.0 and later.

Paid version: not available. How to clean: “Unnecessary files” → wait until the end of the analysis.

App Cache Cleaner

Simple and fast. With just one tap, you can clear all cache and unnecessary apps. Reviews about the program are mixed: for some users it does not delete data, others use it without any problems.

Paid version: not available. How to clean: “Quick clean” item.

All-In-One Toolbox

All the above functions, but in a laconic, very simple design. Suitable for those who find it difficult to understand the interfaces of other “cleaners”.

Paid version: no ads, new themes and support for three devices. How to clean: “Cleaning” → wait for the end of the analysis → select the desired one.

Avast Cleanup

The cleaner, known by the name of its older antivirus brother Avast. Even in demo mode it combines basic functions: clears RAM and optimizes internal memory.

Paid version: no ads, with cleaning scheduler. How to clean: click “Quick Clean” (the first time you launch it, click “Start”, several permissions will be required). Wait for the analysis to finish, click “Quick Cleanup” and select the files you need.

How to clear the cache on Android Honor and Huawei without deleting photos

To save your photos on the device, but clear the accumulated cache, you need to perform a targeted cleaning rather than a general one. Next, we will talk about what methods of this process exist on Huawei and Honor phones in 2021.

Removal via settings

The easiest way is to use the standard settings. To do this, go to the appropriate section and select “All applications”. Open the ones you use and clear the data one by one. For this purpose, each window has the necessary button.

Recovery Menu

To get to the recovery menu, press the smartphone's power key and volume control. Keep them in the active position for at least 15 seconds. Then release, and the system will automatically launch Recovery. Using the up and down keys, move through the items until the line “Wipe cache partition”. Select and confirm the action.

CCleaner program

This is a third-party software for PCs and phones that helps clear the cache on Huawei and Honor phones. As of 2021, it is widely used for cleaning memory, since the interface is simple, the cleaning system itself is free, and over the years of operation has proven itself to be effective and reliable.

To use this option, go to the Play Market, enter the name CCleaner in the search bar, download and install. After launch, select the desired cleaning option.

Removing the cache of one specific program

If only one program needs to clear the cache, open Settings, go to Applications. There, separately select what exactly you need, with two clicks a context menu will open, which has a separate item for cleaning.

It is worth noting that the system in this way removes only components that do not significantly affect the operation as a whole.

If you suspect a virus

Separately, when “brakes” appear, you need to check the gadget with an antivirus for the appearance of Trojans, etc. All antiviruses in our “rating” are similar in function and actually differ only in price.

REMINDER! Do not use sites or utilities that offer “online virus scanning.”

Kaspersky Internet Security

Kaspersky is one of the most reliable and easy to use. In the free version, it scans your memory, helps you find your tablet if it’s stolen, and blocks dangerous links. The paid version allows you to scan equipment in the background, set a password for specific programs and protect against fraud on the websites of banks and online stores (phishing).

ESET Mobile Security

Freely scans your device for malware and protects against phishing sites. The paid version allows you to install an antivirus on five Android devices, search for missing devices, schedule scans, and scan programs immediately after downloading. All these features can be tried for 30 days after downloading, after which you need to purchase access.

Security Master (formerly CM Security)

Created by the developers of the “cleaner” Clean Master. In addition to standard functions, it allows you to enable logging into applications using a password only, cleaning files, and hiding notifications. The paid version includes a scan scheduler and anti-theft protection (for example, it takes photos of intruders using a tablet).

360 Security / 360 Security Lite

Scans potentially dangerous data and allows you to block system utilities. The light version is intended for devices with memory less than 1 GB.

Avira

Avira calls itself the best free antivirus program. In the free version, it automatically detects malware and protects against the consequences of theft; in the paid version, it allows you to block the microphone and webcam.

Dr. Web

Doctor Web is a good, reliable antivirus for tablets. It is very careful about RAM and power consumption of devices. In the light version, it scans files (including in the background), and can unlock a tablet captured by Trojans, viruses and banners. The paid version adds a filter for calls, SMS, unwanted pages, parental controls and anti-theft protection.

What else helps with brakes?

To speed things up, you can run several system and operational functions. This will have to be done manually.

Software update or flashing

This option will be very difficult for an unprepared user: updating the software or flashing it requires strict adherence to the instructions. It is recommended that you familiarize yourself with the step-by-step algorithm of actions on the website of the gadget manufacturer.

It is better to refuse custom firmware - their compatibility with a very large number of device models is questionable, especially for Chinese brands. You can install software or firmware yourself using a notification, an SD card or a USB cable connected to a computer. In case of difficulties, it is better to entrust such a complex process to a repairman.

Block background applications from running

Android

On Android, first you need to enable developer mode:

Android 4.0 and below: “Settings” - “Developer options”
Android 5.0 and higher: “Settings” - “About phone” - press “Build number” several times. After seven clicks, the “Developer Options” item will appear in the menu.

In the open section, select “Process statistics” or “Running applications” - it will display all running processes. Select the ones you need and click “Stop”.

iOS

To completely block background programs on your iPad, go to Settings → General → Content Refresh. You can set options for all applications - update only when Wi-Fi is available or not update at all - or disable specific ones.

Cleaning the startup list of unnecessary services

On Android: Go to Settings → Applications → All tab. Click on each unnecessary program one by one and click “Stop”.

Disabling automatic updates

Android

Open Google Play → “Settings” → “Auto Update” (or “My Apps” → “Disable Auto Update”).

iOS/iPadOS

“Settings” → “iTunes Store and App Store” → “Automatic downloads” block → disable the “Updates” and “Applications” items.

Deactivating GPS

Usually, the geolocation search works constantly. Swipe across the screen to the quick settings menu. Find the GPS icon and click on it once - you will prohibit the transfer of data about your location. The transmission of geodata is activated in the same way - with one tap.

Disable animation and live wallpaper

Replace the live wallpaper with a regular jpg image so that the graphical interface does not slow down loading.

Removing unnecessary shortcuts and widgets

Shortcuts and animated widgets on the Android desktop waste a lot of battery power and load time. Disable unnecessary ones, reduce the number of elements on the display to a minimum, or move them to the side screens.

CPU overclocking

If you have root rights on Android (or jailbreak on iPad) and the right amount of skills, you can overclock the processor to greater power. Without special knowledge in this area, it is recommended to leave this venture to professionals, because there is a high risk of rendering the device inoperable, and you will have to restore the brick

Using third party drivers

If you have already rooted or jailbroken your tablet, you can install almost any third-party drivers. Those that optimize the tablet's graphics system are suitable.