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If you've ever looked at your phone and thought "how come it's full if I don't even have anything saved?", you're not alone. What many people don't realize is that most of the storage is usually taken up by forgotten archivesduplicate videos, old downloads, WhatsApp memes and temporary files. That's where Files by Google.
This free and lightweight application has become a favorite among those who want to do some digital cleaning without having to understand technology. It shows you exactly what's taking up space on your phone and helps you delete what you no longer need - safely, conveniently and quickly.
What is Files by Google?
O Files by Google is an official app from Google itself, created for Android, with the purpose of helping users to free up space, organize files and keep your phone running smoothly. And the truth is that he does it with excellence.
Unlike other cleaning apps, Files doesn't push advertising or install unnecessary functions. It focuses on the essentials: showing you where the problem is and how to solve it with just a few touches.
How does it find forgotten files?
That's the magic of Files. As soon as you open the app, it scans your phone's entire memory and displays cleaning suggestions, divided by category:
- Large files that you haven't used for months
- Videos received via WhatsApp or Telegram
- Old downloads forgotten
- Duplicate files
- Memes and stickers accumulated
- App cache that silently consumes space
All of this is clearly displayed, with a preview. You can see exactly what you're about to delete - and decide whether or not to do so. You remain in control.
How does it work in practice?
1# Install the Files by Google app (available in the Play Store)
2# Open and give the necessary permissions for the app to access the files
3# On the home screen, look at the recommendation blocks: "Clean junk files", "Large files", "Duplicate files", etc.
4# Tap on each category and choose the files you want to remove
5# Done! The space is freed up instantly, without any hassle
In a matter of minutes, you can free up gigabytes of storage - especially if you've never done this kind of cleanup before.
Which files does it help to delete?
Files by Google doesn't delete anything at random. It focuses on:
- Temporary application files
- Cache apps that grow in the background
- Duplicate videos and images
- Forgotten downloads
- Folders full of files received on WhatsApp
- Old audios from groups you no longer participate in
The app also flags files that are unused for a long timeeven if they are not duplicates. This helps you think: "Do I really need to keep this video from three years ago taking up 300 MB?"
Does it delete photos from the gallery?
No! Files is safe on that point. It does not delete personal photos automaticallynor does it interfere with your gallery or files you have saved manually - unless you select this.
He even recommends that, before deleting any large photos or videos, you save them in the Google Photos or Google Drive. This ensures that the content is available in the cloud even after cleaning.
Does it work offline?
Yes, file cleaning and scanning works no internet. You only need to be online if you want to back up your files to the cloud. Otherwise, everything is processed directly on your device, without depending on the network.
This is especially great for those with basic cell phones with limited storage and a slow connection.
Files by Google vs other cleaning apps
There are many apps out there that promise to clean your phone, but end up filling the system with ads, paid versions and dubious functions. O Files by Google stands out because:
- No ads
- No premium account required
- It's light (less than 20 MB)
- It comes from Google itself, meaning security and privacy are guaranteed
While other apps promise to "speed up" your phone with generic functions, Files acts where it really matters: in the space occupied by forgotten files and digital waste.
What about those with older phones?
Files is a blessing. Many phones with 16GB or 32GB of space are full, crashing and unable to install new apps. Files by Google helps solve this with just a few taps.
It shows you hidden folders that you didn't even know existed. Often, just by cleaning up WhatsApp memes and Telegram files, you can recover 1 or 2 GB.
And that without formatting, without installing anything other than Files.
Is there any risk of deleting something important?
No. The app is designed to be safe even for those who don't know much about technology. It clearly highlights what can be safely deleted and shows alerts if any files are in use or are system files.
Even so, you can review each file before deleting it - with preview and description. In other words: you are in control at all times.
See also: Amazon Shopping offers free shipping on selected items in the app
May 26th, 2025
Graduated in Languages - Portuguese/English, creator of the Successful WriterHe also writes for Great App, expanding the knowledge of all technology lovers through movie and series reviews, game reviews and the main news of the moment.