Your Android™ phone probably came with a handful of apps you never use. Whether it’s a weather app you don’t prefer or a shopping app you’ve never opened, these pre-installed apps can clutter your screen and take up space. The good news? While you can’t always delete them entirely, there are simple ways to disable or hide them.
At Asurion, our experts help millions of people make the most of their tech every day. Here’s how to manage those pre-installed apps on your Android device.
Understanding pre-installed apps
Pre-installed apps—also known as bloatware—are apps that come automatically loaded on your Android phone by the manufacturer or carrier. These apps can include tools, games, or brand-specific services that support basic device functions.
Many consumers don't need every app that comes with their Android phone. For instance, a user might like using an email service outside of Gmail or not have a use for the YouTube app. Uninstalling the unwanted app makes sense in these situations. There are also a few benefits to uninstalling these unused apps:
- Prevent clutter: Every app icon occupies the phone's screen. Deleting the ones you don't use creates a more streamlined user interface.
- Stop security exploits: Removing apps you don't use keeps your security footprint tight.
- Save system resources: Storage space and battery life aren't unlimited. Too many unused apps may drain your battery and eat up storage space. Uninstalling the apps you don't need keeps system resources free for the tools you actually use.
Uninstalling apps through the Settings app
The Settings app lets you delete individual apps you don't use in a few easy steps.
- Open the Settings app on your smartphone.
- Tap Apps. On some Android phones, you may need to tap General > Apps & notifications.
- Tap the name of the app you want to remove.
- Tap Uninstall > OK to delete it.
Android doesn't allow users to delete certain apps through Settings, especially those that support overall device functionality. You'll know an app can't be deleted if there is no option to uninstall.
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Uninstalling apps through the Google Play store
The Google Play store offers extra functionality to remove pre-installed apps:
- Open the Google Play Store app on your Android phone.
- Tap the Profile icon that appears on the top right.
- Tap Manage apps & devices > Manage.
- Tap the name of the app you want to delete.
- Tap Uninstall.
Some pre-installed apps can't be completely deleted through the Google Play store either. Even if you uninstall the app, it will still show on your screen. However, by uninstalling and disabling the app, you won't receive future updates for it. That may be beneficial if you don't want system apps that drag down your phone's processing speed or have security concerns.
Note the names of any apps you can't uninstall through the Google Play store. You'll need the list later if you decide to disable them.
How to disable bloatware
Bloatware refers to any undesirable pre-installed software or apps that come with a device. Unfortunately, it's not always possible to uninstall bloatware from an Android device, but you can disable it. Disabling the app means you won't receive its future updates. It also won't run in the background or use your phone's system resources.
To disable a bloatware app, follow the earlier steps for uninstalling unwanted apps. Use the list you drafted of undeletable apps through the Google Play store to pinpoint what you want to disable.
- Open Settings.
- Tap Apps. (Alternatively, you can open the Settings app and tap General > Apps & notifications)
- Tap Permissions. Turn off any permissions currently allowed.
- Return to the App info page. Tap Disable.
- A warning appears explaining that disabling the app may impact other app functions. Tap Disable app or OK to complete the process.
Disabling bloatware isn't likely to impact your Android's operations much. However, note the names of the apps you disable. You can always re-enable them if your smartphone stops working normally.
Re-enabling a disabled app
If you experience any disruptions after disabling an app, take these steps to re-enable it.
- Open Settings.
- Tap Apps.
- Tap the Filter and sort icon and turn on the toggle to Show system apps.
- Tap the app name you want to enable, then tap the Enable option at the bottom of your screen.
Is it possible to completely remove bloatware?
You may find articles recommending rooting the device to delete unwanted apps. Rooting lets you access the smartphone's operating system and customize it to your liking. However, it's a risky endeavor that may void your device warranty and cause irreparable damage. We recommend you don't root the smartphone. Instead, work with your manufacturer to find a solution or simply disable the unwanted app.
FAQ
Can I delete all pre-installed apps from my Android phone?
Not always. Some system apps are essential for your phone to function properly and can't be fully removed. However, you can usually disable or hide them to keep them from running in the background or showing up on your home screen.
What happens when I disable a pre-installed app?
Disabling an app removes it from your home screen, stops it from running in the background, and prevents it from receiving updates. It doesn’t free up as much space as uninstalling, but it does reduce clutter and battery usage.
Will disabling or removing pre-installed apps affect my phone's performance?
Disabling unused apps can potentially improve performance and battery life. Just be sure not to disable any core system apps your device needs to run properly.
How do I know which pre-installed apps are safe to disable?
If you’re unsure, search online for the app’s name or ask an expert. In general, if the app doesn’t affect phone functions like calling, messaging, or Wi-Fi, it’s usually safe to disable.
Can I reinstall a pre-installed app after disabling it?
Yes. You can re-enable any disabled app by going to Settings > Apps > Disabled apps, selecting the app, and tapping Enable.
