You can make a difference in the Apple Support Community!

When you sign up with your Apple Account, you can provide valuable feedback to other community members by upvoting helpful replies and User Tips.

Looks like no one’s replied in a while. To start the conversation again, simply ask a new question.

My iPad has 32gb capacity but storage shows 27.92gb is taken up with the ‘System’ leaving only a small capacity for use. How can I increase my useable storage capacity?

My iPad has 32gb capacity but storage shows 27.92gb is taken up with the ‘System’ leaving only a small capacity for use. How can I increase my useable storage capacity?

iPad Air, iOS 12

Posted on Apr 9, 2022 8:16 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Apr 9, 2022 8:28 AM

System Storage = Operating System currently running on your device (no way to change/modify that storage occupation).

System Data Storage = This category is mostly filled with cache and system files created by Safari, the Mail app, other apps and iOS/iPadOS itself, and that space is automatically managed by the operating system and you can’t interact with it. (5-15GB is a "normal" occupation).

Unfortunately your iPad model cannot support iPadOS 13.6.1, and you can't perform the steps provided in this support article--> Clear Other storage on your iPhone or iPad - Apple Support


Some benefits to reduce that space can be also obtained creating a full backup of your device, then restoring it to factory settings and, in the end, setting it up as new, as per these instructions: Restore your iPhone, iPad, or iPod to factory settings – Apple Support

When done, restore data from your previously made backup, then restart your device and check your device storage again.


If the issue persists, contact Apple Support directly, using this link: Get Support

Regards

Giulio

2 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Apr 9, 2022 8:28 AM in response to TNCAP8AF420

System Storage = Operating System currently running on your device (no way to change/modify that storage occupation).

System Data Storage = This category is mostly filled with cache and system files created by Safari, the Mail app, other apps and iOS/iPadOS itself, and that space is automatically managed by the operating system and you can’t interact with it. (5-15GB is a "normal" occupation).

Unfortunately your iPad model cannot support iPadOS 13.6.1, and you can't perform the steps provided in this support article--> Clear Other storage on your iPhone or iPad - Apple Support


Some benefits to reduce that space can be also obtained creating a full backup of your device, then restoring it to factory settings and, in the end, setting it up as new, as per these instructions: Restore your iPhone, iPad, or iPod to factory settings – Apple Support

When done, restore data from your previously made backup, then restart your device and check your device storage again.


If the issue persists, contact Apple Support directly, using this link: Get Support

Regards

Giulio

Apr 9, 2022 8:23 AM in response to TNCAP8AF420

Apple no longer sells any iPad with only 32GB of space as it's really not practical anymore. That said, if System is taking up too much space on your device, you likely have some corrupt files. The best method to fix this is to backup your iPad, then restore your iPad from backup. Using your home computer with iTunes (Windows) or Finder (Mac) would be preferred.


See these two links:


How to back up your iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch - Apple Support

Restore your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch from a backup - Apple Support

My iPad has 32gb capacity but storage shows 27.92gb is taken up with the ‘System’ leaving only a small capacity for use. How can I increase my useable storage capacity?

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.