What iCloud Photos actually changes
Apple explains that with storage optimization, originals can stay in iCloud while smaller versions are kept on the iPhone when space is needed. That helps, but it does not always show which media explain the storage pressure.
An iPhone can still keep local media, versions needed for display, recently viewed items or files that are still syncing. 4K videos, RAW files, screen recordings and large imports are still the first things worth reviewing.
Before deleting, be careful
With iCloud Photos, deleting media on one device can also delete it from other devices signed in to the same account. Before permanent deletion, make sure the media is not important.
- Start with large videos and screen recordings.
- Review RAW files, imports and screenshots that pile up.
- Check Recently Deleted if storage does not come back immediately.
Tasnif helps make that review easier to read, locally, without uploading your library.