Why & How to Fix Apple Maps Take Up So Much Storage iOS 18

Part 1. Why does Apple Maps Take Up So Much Storage iOS 18

You're not alone if you wonder why Apple Maps is taking up storage. Many iOS 18 users are shocked to find that Apple Maps is using up gigabytes of space sometimes over 30GB even when the app isn’t being actively used. This issue has sparked frustration across Apple’s support forums.

• iOS 18 offline maps can take up several gigabytes of space.
• Apple Maps caches routes, searches, and tiles over time.
• Recent locations and history add hidden data.
• Background updates may store data even when unused.
• No built-in option to clear the cache manually.
• Reinstalling the app usually doesn't remove hidden data.
• Some users report storage keeps growing, possibly a bug in iOS 18.
• No "Optimize Storage" setting for Apple Maps.

Part 2. How to Fix Apple Maps Take Up So Much Storage iOS 18

This section helps answer user concerns like how to delete apple maps data on iphone. Below are six effective methods to reduce Apple Maps data storage and reclaim your iPhone’s space.

Method 1: Turn Off Routing and Traffic in iPhone Settings

Apple Maps uses background location services to show traffic, routing suggestions, and updates in real time. This often results in excessive storage buildup over time. This method is helpful if you're looking for how to delete apple maps data on iphone without deleting the app itself.

• Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Location Services
• Scroll to the bottom and tap System Services

• Toggle off Routing & Traffic

This will stop Apple Maps from constantly storing routing data, helping reduce hidden Apple Maps data storage.

Method 2. Set Google Maps as Default & Reinstall Apple Maps

If ios doesn’t allow you to set third-party apps as “true defaults” for navigation, using Google Maps via apps like Safari or Mail can replace Apple Maps. Reinstalling Apple Maps helps eliminate leftover offline or temporary apple maps data storage, giving you a fresh start without stored junk.

• Long-press the Apple Maps icon on your Home Screen.
• Tap Remove App.
• Select Delete App to uninstall.

• Open the App Store and search for Google Maps.
• Install Google Maps and set it as your go-to for navigation.
• (Optional) Reinstall Apple Maps later from the App Store to clear its cache.

Method 3. Delete the Offline Map

If you’ve noticed that Apple Maps is taking up storage even when unused, switching to Google Maps and reinstalling Apple Maps can reset the app’s cached data. WhOffline Maps in iOS 18 are a great feature for navigating without internet access, but they can consume hundreds of megabytes or even gigabytes if you’ve downloaded entire cities or regions.

• Open the Apple Maps app.
• Tap your profile icon in the top-right corner.
• Choose Offline Maps.
• View all downloaded regions.

• Tap on a region you no longer need.
• Tap Delete Map to remove it.
• Repeat for other maps you want to delete.

Method 4. Factory Reset & Backup iPhone

When Apple Maps data grows uncontrollably and no other method works, a factory reset is the most effective solution. It clears all hidden, system-level files, including apple maps data storage that doesn't appear under regular settings. But before resetting, it’s crucial to back up your data safely. Tenorshare iCareFone is a recommended tool for backing up your data securely and restoring only what you need afterward.

Back Up Using Tenorshare iCareFone:

• Download and open iCareFone on your computer.
• Connect your iPhone using a USB cable.
• Go to the Backup & Restore tab.

• Select the types of files to back up (messages, contacts, photos, videos, etc.).
• Click Backup Now and wait for it to finish.

Factory Reset iPhone:

• Open Settings > General.
• Scroll down and tap Transfer or Reset iPhone.
• Select Erase All Content and Settings.
• Enter your passcode and confirm.
• After reset, use iCareFone to restore only the files you want.

Method 5. Clear Apple Maps Data via Offload App

Offloading is a useful iOS feature that allows you to delete an app but keep its documents and data intact. For Apple Maps, this method will clear the app's cache and temporary files while preserving essential user settings. It’s one of the easiest ways to manage app size and is perfect if you're looking for how to delete Apple Maps data on iPhone without losing full app access or reinstalling from scratch.

• Go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage.
• Scroll down and tap Maps.
• Tap Offload App.
• Confirm by selecting Offload App again.
• Tap Reinstall App to bring it back freshly installed.

Method 6. Prevent Automatic Map Downloads

iOS 18 can automatically download offline maps based on your daily routines or frequently visited places without your permission. These auto-downloads are often the hidden reason behind Apple Maps taking up so much storage. Disabling this setting will help prevent future storage buildup from unneeded map downloads.

• Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
• Scroll down and tap Maps.
• Tap Offline Maps.

• Find the toggle for Automatic Downloads.
• Turn it off to stop automatic offline map downloads.

Method 7: Fix Apple Maps Take Up So Much Storage iOS 18 via iOS System Repair Tool

Apple Maps taking up too much space on iOS 18 could be the result of a system glitch. This often happens after major iOS updates. In such cases, using a trusted iOS system repair tool like Tenorshare ReiBoot can resolve hidden system-level issues causing Apple Maps data to spike.

ReiBoot can fix more than 150 iOS-related problems, including Apple Maps taking up too much storage, without erasing your data. It’s a safe and efficient solution when standard storage management doesn’t help.

Key Features of Tenorshare ReiBoot

• Fixes iOS bugs without data loss
• Repairs over 150+ iOS issues including app cache problems
• Compatible with all iOS versions including iOS 18
• Easy-to-use interface with one-click repair
• Supports Standard and Deep Repair modes
• Doesn’t require technical knowledge

How to Use ReiBoot to Fix apple maps storage bug

• Run Tenorshare ReiBoot on your computer and connect your iPhone to the computer. Once the device is recognized, click the 'Start Repair' button to use the iOS System Recovery tool.

• Choose the 'Standard Repair' option. Read the instructions below to understand the requirements for the tool.

• If you're ready, click 'Download' to download the latest firmware package. This may take some time, as the firmware package is approximately 5GB.

• After a while, your device will be successfully repaired. Check to see if your iPhone has returned to normal and whether Apple Maps is no longer taking up excessive storage.

Part 3. People Also Ask about Apple Maps Take Up So Much Storage iOS 18

Q1. How many GB does Apple Maps use?

Apple Maps can use anywhere from a few hundred MBs to over 20 GB, especially if you’ve downloaded offline maps or used it frequently. Some users on iOS 18 report storage usage reaching 40 GB or more.

Q2. Why is my Maps app using so much data?

The Maps app uses a lot of data for things like offline maps, cached routes, traffic updates, and location tracking. These files can build up over time if not cleared.

Final Words

Many users have noticed that apple maps take up so much storage ios 18, and manual fixes don’t always solve the problem completely. When the issue is caused by a hidden system glitch or bug, a reliable solution like Tenorshare ReiBoot can help. It safely repairs ios system issues without erasing data. For a smoother, cleaner iPhone experience, ReiBoot is a smart and dependable choice.

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