Deleting all photos from your iPhone can free up valuable storage space or allow for a fresh start. This guide provides comprehensive steps on how to permanently delete all photos from your iPhone, including those in your Recently Deleted album.
iPhone showing multiple photos selected in the Photos app
Back Up Your iPhone Before Deleting Photos
Before deleting any photos, it’s crucial to back up your device to ensure you don’t lose any important memories. You can back up to iCloud, your computer, or an external hard drive. This allows you to restore your photos later if needed. For detailed instructions on backing up your iPhone, visit Apple’s support website.
Deleting All Photos from Your iPhone’s Library
There isn’t a single button to delete all photos directly. However, you can efficiently delete multiple photos at once:
-
Open the Photos app: Launch the Photos app on your iPhone.
-
Select Photos: Tap “Select” in the top right corner of the screen. Then, tap and drag your finger across the photos to quickly select multiple images. Alternatively, you can individually tap each photo you want to delete.
-
Delete Selected Photos: Tap the trash can icon in the bottom right corner and confirm your deletion. This moves the photos to the Recently Deleted album.
Permanently Deleting Photos from the Recently Deleted Album
Photos moved to the Recently Deleted album are not yet permanently deleted. They remain there for 30 days before being automatically removed. To delete them immediately:
-
Access Recently Deleted: In the Photos app, scroll down to the bottom and tap on “Albums”. Then, tap on “Recently Deleted”.
-
Unlock the Album: Depending on your iOS version, you may need to use Face ID or Touch ID to unlock the Recently Deleted album.
iPhone showing Delete Photo option
-
Select Photos for Permanent Deletion: Tap “Select” in the top right corner. Choose either “Delete All” at the top left to erase all photos in the album or individually select the photos you want to permanently remove.
-
Confirm Deletion: Tap “Delete” and confirm your choice. These photos are now permanently erased from your iPhone and cannot be recovered.
Deleting Photos from iCloud Photos
If you use iCloud Photos, deleting photos from your iPhone also removes them from all your other devices synced with the same iCloud account. To manage your iCloud Photos storage:
- Visit iCloud Settings: Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > Photos.
- Manage Storage: Here you can optimize iPhone storage or choose to download and keep originals. Deleting photos from iCloud directly will also remove them from your iPhone.
Ensuring All Photos Are Deleted
After following these steps, double-check your photo library and the Recently Deleted album to ensure all photos have been successfully removed. Remember to also check any other photo albums you may have created.
By following these steps, you can successfully and permanently delete all photos from your iPhone, freeing up space and giving you a clean slate. Remember to back up any important photos before deleting them.
