The iOS operating system provides a feature that allows the removal of applications from a device while retaining user data. This mechanism frees up storage space without deleting documents and settings associated with the application. For instance, if a game occupies a significant portion of available storage but is infrequently used, it can be removed, yet its progress and configuration are preserved for potential future use.
This capability is significant for managing storage constraints on devices with limited memory. Its benefits include improved device performance, the ability to install new applications without immediate storage upgrades, and a streamlined user experience. The feature addresses the growing demand for storage space driven by increasingly large application sizes and media files. Functionality of this type was introduced to offer users greater control over their devices resources.