How to uninstall apps on Android

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

Uninstalling apps on Android can be accomplished through several methods, including using the app drawer, settings menu, or Google Play Store. Each method is straightforward and can be completed in just a few taps.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before uninstalling apps on your Android device, ensure you meet the following requirements:
  • •An Android device running Android 5.0 (Lollipop) or later.
  • •Sufficient permissions to uninstall apps (typically, you must be the device owner).
  • •No critical data from the app you wish to uninstall needs to be backed up, as uninstalling will remove all associated data.

Method 1: Uninstalling via the App Drawer

This method is the most direct way to uninstall apps and is suitable for most users.
  • •Step 1: Open the App Drawer by swiping up from the bottom of the screen or tapping the app drawer icon (usually a circle with dots).
  • •Step 2: Locate the app you want to uninstall. Long-press the app icon until a menu appears.
  • •Step 3: Tap 'Uninstall' from the menu that appears. A confirmation dialog will pop up.
  • •Step 4: Confirm the uninstallation by tapping 'OK'. If successful, the app will be removed from your device.

For Android 11 and later

Android 11 introduced a slightly different interface.
  • •Step 1: Open the App Drawer.
  • •Step 2: Long-press the app icon, then drag it to the 'Uninstall' option that appears at the top of the screen.
  • •Step 3: Release the app icon to initiate the uninstallation process.

For Android 10 and earlier

The process is similar but may vary slightly in interface.
  • •Step 1: Open the App Drawer.
  • •Step 2: Long-press the app icon and select 'App Info' from the context menu.
  • •Step 3: Tap 'Uninstall' and confirm the action.

Method 2: Uninstalling via Settings

Using the Settings app provides a comprehensive view of all installed applications and is useful for managing multiple apps.
  • •Step 1: Open the 'Settings' app from the app drawer or notification shade.
  • •Step 2: Scroll down and tap on 'Apps' or 'Applications'.
  • •Step 3: Find and select the app you wish to uninstall from the list.
  • •Step 4: Tap 'Uninstall' and confirm the action by selecting 'OK'.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter problems while trying to uninstall apps, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'App cannot be uninstalled' - Solution: Ensure you have the necessary permissions and that the app is not a system app.
  • •Issue: 'Uninstallation failed' - Fix: Restart your device and try again, or check if the app is currently in use.
  • •Problem: 'App reappears after uninstallation' - Workaround: Check if the app is a pre-installed system app or if it is being restored from a backup.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

For power users, here are some additional tips to streamline the uninstallation process:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: N/A - Android does not support keyboard shortcuts for uninstallation.
  • •Command line: Use ADB (Android Debug Bridge) to uninstall apps via command line for advanced users.
  • •Hidden feature: Use third-party app managers to batch uninstall multiple apps at once.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

Regularly review and uninstall unused apps to maintain optimal device performance and storage.