Google recently released Android 16 to Pixel devices and select OEMs, bringing performance improvements, new Material You changes, and more upgrades. If you want to try this update but are hesitant because you've noticed your Android phone or tablet already feels too sluggish, clearing app and browser caches can give it a fresh boost and free up some storage space.

Over time, cached data can accumulate, become corrupted, or simply get outdated, which may slow down your device. Restarting your phone often helps, but a targeted cache-clear is a quick way to boost responsiveness without upgrading hardware.

Also: I changed 12 settings on my Android phone to give it an instant battery boost

In this guide, I'll show you how to clear cached data on Android. If you're an Apple user, here's how to clear the cache on an iPhone.

How to clear cached data from Android apps

What you'll need:Any Android device. The exact steps may vary slightly by manufacturer, but the general process remains the same.

How to clear cache from Chrome

What you need:The Chrome app on your Android 16 device.

1. Go to History settings in Chrome

Open Chrome, tap the three-dot menu > History > Clear browsing data.

2. Choose the data you want to delete

Select the time range and check "Cached images and files" (and any other data you wish to remove). Then tap "Clear data." 

Also: My 7 favorite new Android 16 features include delights for every Pixel user

Each option explains what it does and how it affects your experience. For example, clearing cookies and site data will log you out of many or all websites, while clearing cached images and files might cause Chrome to load images slower next time you visit a site.

3. Optional: A simpler shortcut

On newer versions of Chrome for Android, tapping the menu button displays an option called Clear Browsing Data. When you select this, a pop-up will appear asking you to clear browsing data from a specific period. If you select More Options, you'll be taken to the Browsing Data screen, where you can choose the data to delete and select the time range.

Will clearing cache delete my app data?

No. Clearing cache only removes temporary files. Your accounts, settings, and app data remain intact.

Will clearing cache make my device faster?

Yes. It frees up storage and removes potentially corrupted or outdated files, which can resolve slowdowns and glitches.

How often should I clear cache?

Whenever you notice slowdowns or app glitches. For most users, every three to six months is sufficient.

Also: I made 5 simple changes on Android to instantly make my phone sound better

Is clearing cache only for storage?

Clearing cache can also fix app issues by forcing apps to rebuild their temporary files. It's a quick troubleshooting step, not just a storage cleanup.

Looking for the next best product? Get expert reviews and editor favorites with Recommends.

See also

How to turn on Private DNS Mode on Android (and why you should)

How to schedule a text on Android - quickly and easily

How to create Android Routines (and a few of my favorites to get you started)

How to screen calls on your Android phone and stop the spam deluge

How to mirror your Android phone to a TV -- 3 easy ways

Android's eSIM transfer comes to more smartphones. Here's how it works

• How to turn on Private DNS Mode on Android (and why you should)
• How to schedule a text on Android - quickly and easily
• How to create Android Routines (and a few of my favorites to get you started)
• How to screen calls on your Android phone and stop the spam deluge
• How to mirror your Android phone to a TV -- 3 easy ways
• Android's eSIM transfer comes to more smartphones. Here's how it works