In this post, we will show you how to remove an app or apps on Android and iOS devices without issues.
In the age of overflowing app stores like Google Play and the App Store, it's easy to get carried away downloading new apps. Before you know it, your once-spacious storage space dwindles, leaving you scrambling to free up precious bytes.
Fortunately, removing unwanted apps on both Android and iOS devices is a breeze. This guide explores various methods for app removal on these popular mobile operating systems, empowering you to reclaim control of your device's storage.
Table of Contents
How To Remove Apps On Android Devices
Android offers multiple ways to uninstall apps, catering to different user preferences:
Method 1: The Long-Press Method
This is perhaps the most intuitive approach. Simply locate the app you wish to remove on your home screen or app drawer. Press and hold the app icon for a few seconds until a menu appears.
You might see an “Uninstall” or “App info” option depending on your device and Android version. Selecting “Uninstall” will initiate the removal process, prompting you to confirm your choice.
Method 2: The Drag-and-Drop Technique
Some Android devices offer a drag-and-drop functionality for uninstalling apps.
Once you've long-pressed the app icon, instead of selecting an option from the menu, you might be able to drag the icon to a designated “Uninstall” icon displayed at the top or bottom of your screen.
Releasing the icon over this “Uninstall” area prompts confirmation before removing the app.
Method 3: Navigating Through Settings
App removal can be achieved through the device's settings menu for users who prefer a more organized approach. Locate the “Settings” app and navigate to the “Apps” or “Applications” section (depending on your device's specific wording).
This section provides a list of all installed applications. Tap on the desired app, followed by the “Uninstall” button to initiate the removal process.
A Word on Disabling Apps
It's important to distinguish between uninstalling and disabling an app. While uninstalling completely removes the app and its data from your device, disabling an app merely prevents it from running in the background.
Disabled apps still occupy storage space, but they won't drain your battery or send notifications. The “Disable” option is often available within the app's settings menu accessed through the “App info” section.
This functionality is useful for apps you might use occasionally but don't require constant background operation.
How To Remove Apps On iOS Devices
Apple's iOS offers three primary methods for removing apps:
Method 1: The Home Screen Shuffle
This is arguably the quickest way to remove apps on iOS. Simply tap and hold any app icon on your home screen.
All app icons will begin to jiggle, and a small “X” will appear in the top left corner of each icon. Tap the “X” on the app you wish to remove, and a confirmation pop-up will appear. Select “Delete” to confirm and complete the app removal process.
Method 2: Settings Safari
For a more detailed view of your installed apps and their storage usage, you can navigate through the Settings app. Tap on “General” and then “iPhone Storage.”
This section displays a list of all apps and the amount of storage space they occupy. Tap on the app you wish to remove. You'll be presented with two options: “Offload App” and “Delete App.” Offloading an app removes the app itself but retains its data.
This can be useful for apps you use infrequently but want to retain associated data for when you reinstall them later. Selecting “Delete App” completely removes both the app and its data from your device.
Method 3: The Outdated Option: iTunes (for older versions)
While not applicable to the latest iOS versions and iTunes iterations, it's worth mentioning that older versions of iTunes (prior to 12.6.3) allowed app removal through a computer connection.
By connecting your iOS device to your computer using a USB cable and launching iTunes, you could navigate to the “Apps” section within iTunes and remove apps directly from your device. However, with the evolution of iOS and iTunes, this functionality is no longer readily available on most devices.
READ ALSO: Risks Of Cryptojacking In Mobile Devices
Beyond App Removal: Storage Management Tips
Uninstalling unused apps is a fantastic first step in reclaiming storage space. Here are some additional tips to optimize your device's storage:
- Review Photos and Videos:Â Large media files like photos and videos can consume significant storage. Consider deleting unwanted media or transferring them to a cloud storage service.
- Clear App Cache: Many apps accumulate temporary data in their cache. Clearing app cache can free up some storage space without removing the app itself. The specific method for clearing cache varies depending on the app and your device's operating system, but it's usually accessible within the app's settings menu or the device's storage management options.
- Utilize Cloud Storage:Â Cloud storage services like Google Drive or iCloud offer a convenient way to store photos, videos, and documents without cluttering your device's internal storage. Free plans typically provide a few gigabytes of storage, while paid plans offer significantly larger capacities.
- Invest in a MicroSD Card (Android Only):Â If you're using an Android device that supports expandable storage, consider investing in a microSD card. This allows you to expand your device's storage capacity and transfer large files like movies or music to the microSD card, freeing up precious internal space for essential apps and data.
READ ALSO: Cloud Storage Guide For Businesses and Individuals
Bottom Line
By following these strategies, you can effectively manage your device's storage and keep your apps organized. Remember, a clutter-free device not only frees up valuable space but can also improve performance and battery life.
So, take control of your app collection, declutter regularly, and enjoy a smooth and efficient mobile experience!
Note: This was initially published in December 2019, but has been updated for freshness and accuracy.
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About the Author:
Christian Schmitz is a professional journalist and editor at SecureBlitz.com. He has a keen eye for the ever-changing cybersecurity industry and is passionate about spreading awareness of the industry's latest trends. Before joining SecureBlitz, Christian worked as a journalist for a local community newspaper in Nuremberg. Through his years of experience, Christian has developed a sharp eye for detail, an acute understanding of the cybersecurity industry, and an unwavering commitment to delivering accurate and up-to-date information.
