How to uninstall apps on iPhone

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting for uninstalling apps on iPhone.

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

Quick Answer

Uninstalling apps on an iPhone can be accomplished through several methods, including direct deletion from the home screen, using the Settings app, or utilizing the App Store. Each method provides a straightforward way to manage your applications.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before uninstalling apps on your iPhone, ensure you meet the following requirements.
  • •An iPhone running iOS 12 or later (iOS 16 recommended for the latest features).
  • •Sufficient storage space to manage app data if needed.
  • •Access to the device with the correct Apple ID if apps are linked to an account.
  • •Backup important data if the app contains critical information.

Method 1: Uninstalling Apps from the Home Screen

This is the most common and user-friendly method for uninstalling apps directly from the home screen.
  • •Step 1: Locate the app you wish to uninstall on your iPhone's home screen.
  • •Step 2: Press and hold the app icon until a menu appears or the icons start to jiggle.
  • •Step 3: Tap 'Remove App' or the 'X' icon (depending on your iOS version).
  • •Step 4: Confirm the uninstallation by tapping 'Delete App' in the prompt that appears.
  • •Step 5: Verify that the app has been removed from the home screen.

For iOS 14 and later

In iOS 14 and later, you can also remove apps from the App Library.
  • •Step 1: Swipe left to access the App Library.
  • •Step 2: Locate the app in the App Library.
  • •Step 3: Press and hold the app icon until the context menu appears.
  • •Step 4: Select 'Delete App' and confirm the action.

For iOS 13 and earlier

In earlier versions, the process is similar but lacks the App Library feature.
  • •Step 1: Press and hold the app icon until it jiggles.
  • •Step 2: Tap the 'X' icon on the app you want to remove.
  • •Step 3: Confirm by tapping 'Delete'.

Method 2: Uninstalling Apps via Settings

This method is useful for uninstalling multiple apps or when the home screen method is not available.
  • •Step 1: Open the 'Settings' app on your iPhone.
  • •Step 2: Scroll down and tap 'General'.
  • •Step 3: Tap 'iPhone Storage'.
  • •Step 4: Scroll through the list of apps and select the app you wish to uninstall.
  • •Step 5: Tap 'Delete App' and confirm the action.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter problems while uninstalling apps, consider the following solutions.
  • •Error: 'Cannot Delete App' - Solution: Ensure that the app is not a built-in app or restricted by parental controls. Check under 'Settings' > 'Screen Time' > 'Content & Privacy Restrictions'.
  • •Issue: App does not appear on the home screen - Fix: Check if the app is in the App Library or hidden in a folder.
  • •Problem: Unable to uninstall multiple apps - Workaround: Use the Settings method to uninstall apps in bulk.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your app management skills with these tips.
  • •Keyboard shortcut: N/A - iOS does not support keyboard shortcuts for app uninstallation.
  • •Hidden feature: Offload Unused Apps - Enable this feature under 'Settings' > 'App Store' to automatically remove unused apps while keeping their data.
  • •Tip: Use Siri to open the app you want to uninstall, then follow the home screen method.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For optimal app management, regularly review your installed apps and remove those that are no longer needed.