Updated
Updated · TechRadar · Jul 2
iPhone System Data Bug Eats Up to 150GB of Storage as Users Share Fixes
Updated
Updated · TechRadar · Jul 2

iPhone System Data Bug Eats Up to 150GB of Storage as Users Share Fixes

3 articles · Updated · TechRadar · Jul 2

Summary

  • Reddit users reported iPhone and iPad storage losses above 100GB from iOS's System Data category, including cases of 100.62GB and 150.56GB disappearing into what they described as a long-running bug.
  • 128GB devices appear especially exposed: one user showed 86.96GB consumed by System Data alone, swallowing 68% of total storage and leaving little room for apps, photos or downloads.
  • Backup-and-restore emerged as the most cited remedy, with users saying an iCloud or computer backup followed by a reset — or even a DFU restore — can clear runaway cache and reinstall a fresh copy of iOS.
  • Less drastic workarounds also helped some users, including enabling Offload Unused Apps, clearing browser and podcast caches, and deleting apps or games with large extra downloads.
  • The reports suggest the issue is not isolated to one app and has persisted for years, underscoring how fixed iPhone storage can magnify software-related space problems.

Insights

As AI features bloat future iOS versions, is the 'System Data' bug a preview of an inevitable iPhone storage crisis?
Is the mysterious 'System Data' bloat a genuine software flaw, or a subtle push for users to upgrade devices and iCloud plans?
Why must users factory reset their premium devices for a storage bug that Apple has known about for years?