How to Delete an App on iPhone

With a plethora of applications available on the App Store, it's easy to accumulate numerous apps on your iPhone over time. Whether it's a game you no longer play, a utility you no longer need, or an app that's taking up too much space, knowing how to delete an app on iPhone is essential for keeping your device organized and running smoothly.

Why Would You Want to Delete an App?

There are multiple reasons one might need to delete an app on an iPhone. Some of these include freeing up storage space, reducing screen clutter, improving device performance, and simplifying your user experience. Additionally, regularly managing your apps can help you focus on those most important for your daily tasks or hobbies.

Ways to Delete an App on iPhone

The process can vary slightly depending on your iOS version. Here are the primary methods to guide you on how to delete an app on iPhone:

Tap and Hold Method: This is the most common and simplest method. By using touch-based gestures, it's easy to manage your apps directly from the home screen.
Settings Deletion: The Settings app provides an alternative for removing apps, allowing more oversight of your device's storage usage.
Using App Library: With iOS 14 and later, the App Library introduces another consolidated way to manage and delete apps without navigating multiple home screens.

Steps to Delete an App on iPhone

Let's delve into the step-by-step guide on how to delete an app on iPhone using each method:

Guide Steps

Tap and Hold Method

Unlock your iPhone and navigate to the Home screen where the app icon is located.
Press and hold the app icon you wish to delete. A pop-up menu or edit mode will appear depending on your device setting.
If a pop-up menu appears, tap “Remove App.” Alternatively, if the icons start to jiggle, tap the 'X' or '-' button on the app icon.
Confirm the deletion by tapping “Delete App” in the confirmation window that appears.
Press the Home button or tap “Done” in the upper right corner if you’re on a device without a Home button to stop the jiggling icons.

Settings Deletion

Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
Tap on General, then select iPhone Storage.
Scroll through the list of apps and find the one you want to delete.
Tap on the app and select Delete App at the bottom of the app’s information page.
Confirm the deletion by tapping “Delete App” again when prompted.

Using App Library (iOS 14 and Later)

Swipe left past your last Home screen to access the App Library.
Locate the app you wish to delete. You can either search for it or find it in its respective category.
Press and hold the app icon until a menu appears.
Select “Delete App” and confirm by tapping “Delete.”

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens to the data when I delete an app from my iPhone?

When you delete an app, its associated data is also removed from your device. However, some app data might be stored in iCloud if you’ve enabled iCloud backups. If you reinstall the app, you may be able to restore your data depending on the app's functionality and backup settings.

Can I recover a deleted app?

Yes, deleted apps can be re-downloaded from the App Store at no additional charge, as long as you use the same Apple ID. Simply search for the app and click the download icon. However, if the app was removed from the App Store by its developer or for policy violations, it will not be available for download.

Is it possible to delete built-in Apple apps?

With newer iOS versions, certain built-in Apple apps can be removed, such as Calendar and Podcasts. However, critical apps necessary for the system's smooth operation, like Settings or Phone, cannot be deleted.