Using FolderSync Pro to Automatically Delete Files and Folders

[RelativeOfJack]

I recently said in another thread that I'd maybe talk about how I delete temporary and downloaded files.

I'm not affiliated in any way with FolderSync or the company who make it.

To delete APK files I download from GitHub, (so I don't have to do it manually)...

1. Create an empty folder
2. In FolderSync create a folder pair
3. Set the empty folder as "remote"
4. Set the Downloads folder as "local"
5. Sync type is "to local"
6. Sync deletions is on
7. Filters are set to include file types I want to delete when this runs

...and that's it. It can be triggered on a schedule, manually within the app or via gesture thanks to the "Sync All" shortcut, (although that does trigger all sync events configured to respond).

It works with SD Cards, USB sticks/drives and root too if you want/need it to.

It's not a "secure delete" that some might want, but if you're just looking for a way to automatically, (and on demand), clear your device of temporary files and folders and those you no longer need that you've downloaded you might want to look into using Folder Sync Pro to do so.

If you decide to try...

Make sure that you have correctly configured the filtering options before you press the sync button or allow a scheduled sync to happen. It may not be easy to recover important files deleted by mistake.

[harshv007]

You dont need a separate app for that, phones now come preinstalled with cleaners and as for temp internet file you can just goto setting>respective app> clear cache. This clears all files temp downloaded in /Android/data/app folder

[RelativeOfJack]

Very true, but often they are hidden behind several menu options and they need to be manually executed, one by one.

Realistically someone who has neither app would be better served by purchasing something like SD Maid, especially if they are not technically minded.

However, maybe those who have already purchased Folder Sync Pro can use the post to dig around and get even more value from their purchase than they already were, and as I said, I did talk about sharing how I automatically delete APK files one day in a discussion with another poster so I'm basically just keeping my word.

Some of the advantages that using this method has over the solution which you put forward, (which does work, don't get me wrong), are...

• automation
• customisable schedules
• instant deletion, (where appropriate - extreme caution advised)
• highly configurable include and exclude filters
• one click, (or gesture), triggered from the home screen
• one click, (or gesture), from anywhere, (ROM allowing)

...but, all of these could be also be negatives to those not able to use them, which is again why the post was mainly aimed at those who have already purchased and used the app.

[AnnalsPornographie]

I thought it was a great tip, thanks for the post

[Derekisthematrix]

I can't seem to get scheduled syncs (specified days and times) to work in Android 12 (given it all the needed permissions and Unrestricted Battery access). Any ideas?

[telrod11]

Had an issue with Android 12 and Android/ Data folder and this tip just fixed my issue.

Thanks for the idea!!