Optimize iPhone Storage
Also known as: optimize storage, optimised storage iPhone, optimize photos
Optimize iPhone Storage is an iCloud Photos setting that keeps smaller, device-sized versions of your photos and videos on the phone while the full-resolution originals stay in iCloud. The full file re-downloads on demand when you open or share it.
- Keeps device-sized copies; originals stay in iCloud
- Requires iCloud Photos and enough iCloud storage
- Originals re-download on demand
How it works
When you turn on Settings > [your name] > iCloud > Photos > Optimize iPhone Storage, iOS uploads your originals to iCloud and replaces the on-device copies with lighter versions whenever space is needed. Your library still looks complete; the difference is only resolution until you tap a photo.
It requires iCloud Photos to be enabled and enough iCloud storage to hold the full library. If iCloud is full, optimization cannot keep all originals safe in the cloud.
What to expect
Opening or sharing a photo downloads its original, so it takes a moment and uses data or Wi-Fi. The alternative setting, Download and Keep Originals, stores full files on the device and uses far more space.