New to iPhone? Here’s how much storage you actually need in 2026

Devices

This simple guide helps you pick the right iPhone 17 or iPhone Air storage for your daily life.

February 3, 2026
by
Farah Mustafa

📦 What does iPhone storage really mean?

Every iPhone comes with built-in storage – usually shown in GB (gigabytes) or TB (terabytes).

It’s like your phone’s memory.
More GB = more space for:

  • Photos and 4K videos
  • WhatsApp chats
  • TikTok drafts
  • Mobile games
  • Offline Netflix shows

📱 Storage options for iPhone 17 & iPhone Air 2026

ModelAvailable storage size
iPhone 17256GB / 512GB
iPhone 17 Pro256GB / 512GB / 1TB
iPhone 17 Pro Max256GB / 512GB / 1TB / 2TB
iPhone Air256GB / 512GB / 1TB

If you’re comparing iPhone 17 price in Malaysia, remember:
➡️ The more storage you pick, the higher the price.

📸 How much can you store?

📸 1GB = About 250 photos
🎥 1GB = About 5 minutes of HD video
🎵 1GB = Around 200 songs
📱 Apps = Varies! Some games take up 10GB+

So if you like taking videos, storing music, or playing games — you’ll want more GB.

🤔 How much iPhone storage do YOU need?

You are...Recommended storageWhy?
First-time iPhone user (basic needs)128GB*Basic use, light apps, photos
Casual user256GBSocial media, photos, some offline shows
Student256GBStudy apps, music, WhatsApp, light gaming
Parent256–512GBLots of photos, videos, family content
Mobile gamer512GBGame files + streaming apps = big space
Content creator512GB–1TB4K video, editing apps, Pro camera usage
*128GB only available on non-Pro models or older iPhones.

☁️ Next, do you need iCloud?

Yes – especially if you choose 128GB or 256GB.

iCloud is Apple’s cloud storage service that:

  • Saves your photos, videos & files online
  • Lets you access them from any device
  • Helps free up space on your iPhone

iCloud storage price in Malaysia:

Storage sizePrice
50GBRM3.90
200GBRM11.90
2TBRM44.90
6TBRM129.90
12TBRM269.90

Just remember: You’ll need strong internet or unlimited data to make the most of iCloud.

🧹 Tips to save space on your iPhone

✅ Turn on Offload Unused Apps

✅ Clear old WhatsApp media & screenshots

✅ Use Optimise Photos in settings

✅ Delete duplicate selfies & memes

✅ Let iOS 18 suggest smart cleanups

🛒 Final tips before you buy an iPhone in Malaysia

✔️ 128GB is enough if you use cloud and keep it light
✔️ 256GB–512GB is perfect for most Malaysians
✔️ 1TB–2TB is best if you’re a content creator or want to keep your phone for years

💡 Best tip? Always go one size bigger if you can. Running out of space is no fun.

Catch rebates! Not feelings 😉

Switch to CelcomDigi and get the latest iPhone with us to enjoy up to RM170 in plan rebates.
Learn more

🎯 Get the iPhone you want, without the stress

Still unsure which iPhone or storage size to get? Here’s the easy answer:

📱 Go for at least 256GB — it gives you room to grow without worrying about space.
💡 Then, pair it with a CelcomDigi Easy360 plan that’s built to make life simple.

Why Easy360 just makes sense:

RM0 upfront — no big payment needed
Monthly instalments from just RM76
Unlimited 5G data — perfect if you’re using iCloud
Extra perks — trade-in rebates, free iCloud+, exclusive accessories

Whether you're eyeing the iPhone 17 or waiting for the sleek iPhone Air, CelcomDigi lets you upgrade without the headache.

👉 Check out the latest iPhone deals now at CelcomDigi Easy360

Get an iPhone 17 at RM76/month

Learn more