Like all mobile apps, TikTok accumulates cache and data over time, stored in your phone’s internal memory to expedite the application interface loading. The more frequently you use the app, the more data it amasses in your phone. A pressing question is whether it’s necessary to clear TikTok’s cache after prolonged usage, and what happens after you’ve cleared the app’s cache?
Clearing app cache and data regularly is advisable as they consume considerable storage space and can negatively impact app performance. This guide will enlighten you on how to clear TikTok’s cache on Android and iOS phones, the necessity of doing it, and the outcome after doing so.
TikTok Cache Files
All applications save cache files in your phone to enable swift access each time you launch the app. Rather than downloading everything anew from the internet each time, apps like TikTok utilize cache files saved in your smartphone to perform routine basic functions swiftly and conveniently.
This methodology bears further advantages: it consumes less mobile data since TikTok only needs to download specific data types rather than downloading everything.
Types of Data Stored by TikTok
TikTok app retains your TikTok profile details, app settings, details of videos you’ve watched/downloaded on the platform, viewing history, filters, effects, and videos you liked. Notably, TikTok doesn’t save the video but some details about the video.
Clearing cache files can improve performance, increase storage, and rectify common errors that users often encounter when using an app. The caching process transpires in the background, and you barely notice the difference – until you delete TikTok’s cache and re-open the app.
What Happens When You Clear TikTok Cache?
Clearing the cache practically means starting afresh. This action erases your login details and profile. When you log back into TikTok, the app downloads a fresh cache copy. It might take a few moments, and you should inspect your profile once again.
However, TikTok will not delete downloaded or liked videos, your comments, or comments left on your videos. All your data, including profile details and history, remains safe on TikTok’s servers. It’s all cloud-based, and the app re-downloads parts of it to your smartphone to hasten content delivery and enhance performance.
The cache size will be significantly small initially but will progressively accumulate over time, like before you cleared it.
How to Clear TikTok Cache on Android
Step 1: Open phone settings and locate TikTok in the Manage apps section or your phone’s app list. This may vary depending on your smartphone’s make and model. Open it.
Step 2: Tap “Clear data” at the bottom of the screen to select “Clear cache” and “Clear all data.” The app will prompt you to log in to your account.
The TikTok app enables you to clear cache from the official app itself, providing more control.
Step 1: Launch the app and tap the “Me” tab at the screen bottom to select the three-dot menu icon. This action will launch Settings. Tap “Free up space.”
Step 2: Here, you can clear cache and downloads. The app clarifies that downloads include filters, stickers, effects, and other data. Unlike the Android Settings options, you can choose which data to delete, where everything is deleted.
How to Clear TikTok Cache on iOS
iOS is known for various features, but flexibility and openness aren’t among them. You cannot delete cache and TikTok data from iOS settings. Fortunately, the TikTok app provides this option.
So open the app and repeat the same process as described above for Android to clear TikTok cache from the app on your iPhone or iPad.
Wrapping Up
Despite the immense popularity of TikTok, it isn’t devoid of privacy and security issues and has seen its share of scandals and scams. However, that doesn’t overshadow its positives. There are plenty of engaging accounts that teach you new things and keep you entertained.
The more you use the app, the more it takes up storage space and slows down both your phone and the TikTok app. It’s wise to clear cache files and data periodically. You won’t lose your profile or related data, but doing so will enhance your user experience. A superior experience when using your favorite app is always a plus.
FAQ
Why should I clear my TikTok cache?
Clearing TikTok cache can boost app performance, free up storage space, and rectify common errors that users might encounter when using the app.
What data does TikTok store in its cache?
TikTok retains your profile details, app settings, details of videos you’ve watched or downloaded, viewing history, filters, effects, and information about liked videos. It doesn’t save the videos themselves.
How do I clear TikTok cache on Android and iOS devices?
On Android, go to phone settings, find TikTok in the Manage apps section, and tap “Clear data” to clear cache and all data. Alternatively, open the TikTok app, go to the “Me” tab, tap the three-dot menu icon, and select “Free up space.” On iOS, open the TikTok app, go to the “Me” tab, tap the three-dot menu icon, and select “Free up space.”
