Built-in features within the Android operating system created by Google can occupy significant storage space on mobile devices, but disabling a single location setting can free nearly six gigabytes of memory, according to tech publication MakeUseOf.
MakeUseOf journalist Shimul Sood reported that she managed to free almost six gigabytes of storage space on her smartphone after turning off just one built-in feature. The specialist disclosed the storage optimization method as an unexpected way to reclaim device memory.
Sood explained that devices running on the Android operating system include a built-in function called Location History. The tool automatically tracks the movements of a smartphone user and generates a personal map of the places the device owner visits most frequently. While the system recommendation engine relies on this feature to function, users have the option to disable it.
To turn off Location History and free up storage, users must open the Google Maps application on their phone and locate the Your Timeline section. Within that area, users need to access the Location and privacy settings subsection and select the option labeled Turn off and delete activity.
Sood noted that if an Android phone constantly displays warnings about a lack of memory, checking the settings within Google Maps might be a worthwhile step for users seeking extra storage space.
Clearing smartphone storage space
Android is a mobile operating system developed by Google that runs on smartphones and mobile devices across the globe. Google Maps is a web and mobile mapping service that uses location tracking to provide navigation, traffic reports, and localized business recommendations. MakeUseOf is an online technology publication that produces tutorials, software reviews, and troubleshooting guides for consumer electronics.
Removing extra Samsung components
The storage tip follows earlier reports from journalists at technology outlet XDA regarding alternative methods to free up space on mobile devices. XDA reported that deleting specific system components from Samsung smartphones can also help users reclaim internal storage memory.
The XDA report specifically highlighted Samsung Language Core as one of the components that can be removed from devices. Samsung Language Core is a system program that enables artificial intelligence neural networks to operate in offline mode without requiring an active internet connection.
Samsung is a South Korean technology conglomerate and one of the world's largest manufacturers of Android smartphones. XDA, formerly known as XDA Developers, is a mobile software development community and news platform known for technical guides, Android system modifications, and device tutorials.
