How to free iPhone storage by deleting large attachments in Messages (iOS 26.1)

Low storage warnings on iPhones often stem from attachments saved inside Messages. Photos, videos and documents tucked into text threads can accumulate quickly, reducing space for apps and updates. The latest guidance points users to clear those attachments without erasing conversations, using built-in tools tied to iOS 26.1.

To delete a single file within a thread, open the Messages app and select the conversation that holds the attachment. Tap the contact’s name at the top, then choose Photos or Documents. Long-press the file until a menu appears, tap Delete and confirm. The item is removed while the chat remains intact.

To delete multiple attachments at once, return to the Photos or Documents tab, tap Edit, then Select Photos or Select Documents. Tap the items you want to remove so a blue checkmark appears, tap the trash icon, and confirm Delete. This clears several bulky files without affecting the conversation history.

An alternate route is to review large attachments from Settings. Go to Settings, then General, iPhone Storage, Messages, and Review Large Attachments. This view highlights the biggest photos, videos and files so users can delete them with a tap.

Apple released iOS 26.1 with major security improvements and new features for iPhone users, including improved storage management because of the increasing amount of media and documents in Messages.

On iPad, these steps work in much the same way, providing cross-device consistency.

The guidance is provided by Cyberguy.com, which emphasizes that freeing up storage doesn’t have to be confusing; a few taps can restore space and keep conversations intact.

Taken together, clearing large attachments can yield quick, noticeable boosts in available storage, particularly for users who send many photos and videos.

By cleaning up attachments while preserving chat history, iPhone users can maintain organized threads and better device performance as apps and AI features expand.