How to Delete Preinstalled Apps on Android
As an Android user, you may have noticed that many devices come with preinstalled apps that you may never use. These preinstalled apps can take up storage space, slow down your device, and even affect your battery life. Therefore, it’s essential to learn how to delete preinstalled apps on Android. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of deleting preinstalled apps on your Android device.
Why should you delete preinstalled apps?
Before we dive into the process of deleting preinstalled apps, it’s essential to understand why you should do so. Here are some reasons why:
- Save storage space: Preinstalled apps take up valuable storage space on your device, which can be used for other essential data and files.
- Improve performance: Some preinstalled apps may run in the background, eating up system resources and affecting your device’s performance.
- Customize your home screen: Removing unwanted apps can help you declutter your home screen and give you a more personalized experience.
- Reduce battery drain: Some preinstalled apps may continue to run in the background, draining your battery life.
How to delete preinstalled apps on Android
Method 1: Delete preinstalled apps directly from the app drawer
Step 1: Locate the app you want to delete
Open the app drawer on your Android device and scroll through the list of installed apps. Find the preinstalled app you want to delete.
Step 2: Long-press the app icon
Long-press the app icon until a menu appears with the "Uninstall" option.
Step 3: Confirm the uninstallation
Tap "Uninstall" to confirm that you want to remove the app. The app will be uninstalled, and the storage space it occupied will be freed up.
Method 2: Delete preinstalled apps using Settings
Step 1: Go to Settings
Open the Settings app on your Android device.
Step 2: Navigate to Apps & notifications
Scroll down and select "Apps & notifications."
Step 3: Find the app you want to delete
Find the preinstalled app you want to delete in the list of installed apps.
Step 4: Uninstall the app
Select the app and tap the "Uninstall" button. Confirm that you want to remove the app to complete the process.
Common errors when deleting preinstalled apps
- Error 1: "You can’t uninstall this app"
This error occurs when the app is a system app and cannot be uninstalled. You can try to disable the app instead by going to Settings > Apps & notifications > [App name] > Disable. - Error 2: "Failed to uninstall"
This error may occur if the app is being used by another process or has deep-rooted dependencies. Try restarting your device and then try uninstalling the app again.
Additional tips
- Don’t delete essential system apps: Some apps, like the Google Play Store, are essential to your device’s functionality. Only delete apps that you don’t use or that are not required for your device’s functionality.
- Backup your data: Before deleting an app, ensure you backup any important data, such as login credentials or saved games, in case you need them later.
- Use a custom launcher: Some custom launchers, like Nova Launcher or Apex Launcher, allow you to hide or uninstall preinstalled apps easily.
Table: Preinstalled apps to delete
| App | Description | Recommended Action |
|---|---|---|
| Google+ | Social media app with limited functionality | Delete |
| Google Play Games | Gaming platform with limited user base | Delete |
| Lookout Security & Antivirus | Preinstalled antivirus software with limited features | Delete |
| Yandex Browser | Russian search engine browser | Delete |
In conclusion, deleting preinstalled apps on Android can help you free up storage space, improve performance, and customize your home screen. Follow the methods outlined above to delete preinstalled apps, and keep your device running smoothly. Remember to be cautious when deleting essential system apps and to backup your data before uninstalling an app.