How do I remove unwanted apps from my Android phone?

Answered by Jarrod Smith

Removing unwanted apps from your Android phone is a straightforward process that can help free up storage space and declutter your device. Whether you want to remove pre-installed bloatware or simply uninstall apps you no longer use, I’ll guide you through the steps to delete apps on any Android phone.

1. Long-press on the app’s icon: Start by finding the app you want to remove on your home screen or app drawer. Press and hold your finger on the app’s icon until a popup menu appears. This menu may vary depending on your device’s manufacturer or Android version.

2. Access the app’s info: Once the popup menu appears, you should see an “i” button or the option for “App Info.” Tap on it to proceed to the next step.

3. Navigate to the app settings: After tapping on “App Info,” you’ll be directed to the app’s settings page. Here, you can find various details about the app, including storage usage, permissions, and more.

4. Uninstall the app: On the app’s settings page, you should see a button labeled “Uninstall.” Tap on it to initiate the uninstallation process. A confirmation prompt may appear, asking if you’re sure you want to uninstall the app. Confirm your decision to proceed.

5. Remove app updates (optional): In some cases, you may not be able to uninstall certain pre-installed apps completely. However, you can still remove updates for these apps to free up some space. To do this, navigate to the app’s settings page, and instead of tapping “Uninstall,” look for the “Uninstall updates” button. This will revert the app to its original version.

6. Disable system apps (optional): If you’re unable to uninstall certain pre-installed apps or they don’t have an “Uninstall updates” option, you can choose to disable them instead. Disabling a system app essentially hides it from your app drawer and prevents it from running in the background. To disable a system app, follow the same steps mentioned earlier, but look for the “Disable” button instead of “Uninstall.”

It’s important to note that not all apps can be uninstalled or disabled on every Android device. System apps, in particular, are often protected and may require rooting your device to remove them completely. Exercise caution when removing or disabling apps, especially those you’re unsure about, as it may affect the functionality of your device.

The process of removing unwanted apps from your Android phone involves long-pressing the app’s icon, accessing its app info, and then selecting the uninstall option. If you’re unable to uninstall certain apps, you can consider removing updates or disabling them instead.