In a perfect setting, app data would make all apps load faster and also run faster. But the reality is that not many apps are use caching very efficiently. Consequently, your device’s performance is sacrificed as it caches more data than needed. If you are experiencing this, it will help if you know where to locate app data. While you’re at it, clear out some obsolete app data, or cache, to get your Android phone up and running like a brand new device. So no need to worry. In this article, I will detail everything you need to know about app data stored on Android! Read:
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Where is app data stored on Android? And does it really slow down phone performance?
It is time to get to know Android at a deeper level and find out how things work. The best thing about Android devices is their inclusivity. You can download apps from the main Google Play Store or through other APK downloaders. And when you install an app from either of these two platforms, Android stores that in /data/app/your_package_name. If you did not know this already, this section of your device’s storage is also known as Shared Storage. All the other apps put their data here too. The problem is that when apps are given this whole folder, and even when they only need a small portion, it means that the data produced stays in storage. And get this, even if you uninstall the app, the data still stays in storage. So no wonder your phone slows down, even after deleting tons of your installed apps! That explains a lot. Thankfully, Android fixes this with Scoped Storage. Now, apps can have all their collected data inside their own individual app directory, and not all cluttered together in the Shared Storage folder. This change allows the system to recognize which files were created by individual apps. Thus, files that were generated by apps won’t get left behind in storage after uninstalling them. Also, it will now be harder for other apps to snoop on other files in the external storage. This change not only helps your phone storage issue, but also your security.
How to clear app data on Android in two easy ways
As mentioned above, if your Android phone is slowing down, you can simply clear up the app cache. If you have tons of apps installed, clearing up the cache can be a time-consuming task. There are two ways that you can clear up your app data on Android. And I will talk you through both methods so you can try it out for yourself.
Method 1: Uninstall app to clear app data
One way to delete app data is by uninstalling and installing it back again. This puts the app back into a freshly installed state with no files or cache stored yet.
Step 1: Long-press the app icon
Step 2: Click Uninstall
Step 3: Confirm by clicking OK
Method 2: Clear app data in the Settings
Another way is by clearing the app data and cache in the settings. Take note: The device used here is a Huawei P20.
Step 1: Go to Settings
Step 2: Select Apps
Step 3: Select an app
Step 4: Choose Storage
Step 5: Clear app data and cache
If you are worried that your other files and apps might get deleted in the process, it’s best to back up your Android device first before doing anything drastic!
How to clear app data and cache using a third-party app
Additionally, you can also clear app data using a third-party application. In this article, we will be using a free app from the Play Store.
Step 1: Download and install CCleaner
Step 2: Launch the app and click the start button
Step 3: Start scanning the app data and cache
Step 4: Finish the cleaning
Click on the ‘Finish Cleaning’ button and the app will do its job. Remember that the app will clear the files depending on the folders that you tick off.
Clear out storage from time to time!
Still, one of the most effective ways of bumping up the speed of your device is clearing out your storage from time to time. Check if there are apps on your device that you haven’t used in a long time. It’s best if you uninstall them and free up that space. Also, remember to check up on your app data and cache. Yes, as mentioned, they slow down your phone’s performance. Thankfully, you have this article to guide you. For gadget users out there, it’s always helpful if you know what to do in times of trouble! Did this article help you? Do you have other tips in clearing out app data? Write them down in the comment section below!
