Tips for managing Signal storage and attachments

Applies to: Signal Messenger (Android, iOS)
Last updated: September 2025

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Problem

Signal media (photos, videos, voice notes, documents) can quickly fill up your device storage. Since Signal doesn’t use cloud storage, large caches and attachments stay on your phone unless manually cleared.

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Solution

Signal includes tools to manage storage, delete old attachments, and control auto-download settings to prevent unnecessary storage use.

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Step-by-step Instructions

Step 1: Review storage usage

1. Open Signal.
2. Go to Settings > Data and Storage > Manage Storage.
3. View storage breakdown (by chats, media type, and total usage).

Step 2: Clear old media and messages

1. In Manage Storage, tap Free Up Space.
2. Select conversations or media categories (e.g., large videos).
3. Confirm deletion — files/messages will be permanently removed.

Step 3: Configure auto-download settings

1. Go to Settings > Data and Storage > Media auto-download.
2. Set preferences for Mobile data, Wi-Fi, and Roaming.
   • Example: Allow only photos on mobile data.
   • Block videos and documents unless on Wi-Fi.

Step 4: Limit attachment size and retention

• Use disappearing messages in chats to automatically clear older content.
• Regularly delete large files in groups/channels.

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Optional Methods or Tools

• Move exported media manually to cloud storage (Google Drive, iCloud) before clearing them.
• Use device file manager apps to browse Signal media folders and delete unneeded files.

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Best Practices / Tips

• Check storage every 1–2 months if you’re active in large groups.
• Avoid downloading unnecessary videos or documents from unknown sources.
• Use disappearing messages in groups to reduce long-term storage use.
• Always back up (Android local backups) before doing large cleanups.