How to Delete Downloads on iPad: A Step-by-Step Guide
An iPad can easily fill up with downloaded files like apps, media, documents, and more. Clearing old, unused downloads helps free up valuable storage space and improves your iPad's performance.
Follow this six-step guide for methods to delete individual downloads or clear them in bulk.
Open The Files App
The Files app allows you to access all files stored on your iPad. Tap on the Files icon to open the app. This is where you can view and manage all your downloads.
Navigate To The Downloads Folder
In the Files app, scroll down and tap on On My iPad or tap on Browse and select Downloads to open your Downloads folder. View all your existing downloaded files here.
Swipe Left on Individual Downloads to Delete
An easy way to delete downloads one by one is by swiping. Press your finger on a download then swipe left.
A small Delete button appears. Tap it to remove that file from iPad storage. This clears up space while allowing you to delete selectively.
Tap Select to Mass Delete Multiple Downloads
To quickly clear large batches of downloads, tap the Select button at the top right.
Then tap each file you want to delete so a checkmark appears.
Tap the Delete icon shaped like a trash can to erase all the selected downloads and attachments in one go.
Offload Unused Aaps
Large downloaded apps also take up precious storage capacity. Go to Settings > General > iPad Storage to see a list of apps.
Tap on the app then tap Offload App to temporarily remove it and its data until you need it again.
This deletes that app's download while still keeping it available for quick redownload if wanted.
Turn on iCloud Photos
Enable iCloud Photos to safely store images and videos in cloud storage instead of filling up space on your iPad's drive.
Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > Photos and enable iCloud Photos so it moves your existing photos library to the cloud automatically.
Newly taken photos will also be synced and stored in iCloud storage from then on.
Some Tips For Deleting Download
- Check Downloads folder regularly and mass delete unnecessary files.
- Use cloud storage services like Dropbox or Google Drive to backup files so you can delete iPad copies.
- Organize downloads into folders like Documents or Media for easier search/deletion.
- Set iPad Storage settings to automatically offload unused apps over time.
Conclusion
Following this guide on removing downloads, you'll free up needed space on your iPad for optimal performance.
Remember to continually monitor your downloads and mass delete or offload unused files when storage feels limited.
Jim's passion for Apple products ignited in 2007 when Steve Jobs introduced the first iPhone. This was a canon event in his life. Noticing a lack of iPad-focused content that is easy to understand even for “tech-noob”, he decided to create Tabletmonkeys in 2011.
Jim continues to share his expertise and passion for tablets, helping his audience as much as he can with his motto “One Swipe at a Time!”