iPhone Tips: Delete Files, Multitasking and More

The iPhone can be an easy device to use but the occasional issue will sometimes occur. Problems like apps being unresponsive can be quite a chore to deal with, especially if you’re on a call at the same time.  No matter how many times you begin to tap, the app just won’t respond and you’re forced to reboot your phone. Here are simple tips that will help your iPhone experience more enjoyable and less stressful:

1. Quit Unresponsive Apps

Locate the unresponsive app which is usually on the left 

Simply double click the home button to bring up the unresponsive app. Press the unresponsive app icon until the red minus symbol appears with it. Quit the unresponsive by pressing the minus sign.

Press the minus symbol and the unresponsive app is terminated for the current session

2. Clear Space on your Device

Find the media file you want to delete

The great convenience of having iTunes installed is the ease of being able to download content straight from Apple’s service. Sometimes too much media whether it be movies or television shows can fill up your device.  If you’re using the 16 GB version, you can run out of space quickly. Fortunately, Apple provides an easy way to create space by removing media from your device. Of course this tip is based on the assumption that you’ve backed up your media and purchases already.

Open up the iPod app and locate the videos section. Swipe on a particular media file but we suggest deleting movies since they can take up to 2 GB of space (HD movies may consume more space). Tap the delete button and the file is removed from your device.

A swipe will erase the file from your device

3. Location Services

Location Services

Prevent unwanted tracking by your apps by turning off Location Services for those particular ones.  While it's necessary to have certain apps know your location like Google Maps and Yelp!, go to the Settings icon and then Location Services. Choose which apps you don't want tracking you.

4. Multitasking

Home Screen Multitasking

You don't have to quit the current App you're using just to use another app. You can quickly switch to a different app by pressing the Home button on a main screen. Swipe the icons to find the app that you want. 

These tips should work on any iPhone, iPod and iPad running the most current iOS for that device. It is advised that you backup your device first before performing these suggestions.