Why is there so much 'other' space being used?

[dopaminedude]

So what's all the extra 'other' space on my phone? If I restore to get rid of it (IF that's the only way) am I gonna have to set up my home screen/apps all over?

 

[cynics]

It's app data, emails, messages etc.

Deleting my messages cleared up 2.5 gb of other space on my iPhone. I'm in a few group messages though, lots of pics and videos though.

You can also go through each app and under setting > general > usage and when you click on them check their Documents & Data. If some are very high you'll have to delete and reinstall the app (you'll lose that data beware).

In rare cases its some sort of corruption and a restore from NEW is the only solution.