Android

How to Uninstall System Apps on Android Safely

February 14, 2025

Struggling with those pre-installed apps you never use? You’re not alone. They clutter your Android device, slow it down, and take up precious space.

Many users face this issue, eager to remove bloatware and unnecessary system apps but unsure where to start. This article will guide you through how to uninstall system apps on Android, ensuring your device runs smoother and faster.

We’ll explore various methods, from tweaking Android settings to using tools like ADB and rooting your phone with KingoRoot. You’ll also learn about safer alternatives like disabling apps temporarily.

By the end, you’ll know how to navigate options like Developer Options, Device Administration, and using Custom ROMs.

Expect clear steps and practical tips on making your Android device clutter-free without compromising its functionality. Let’s reclaim those resources and enhance your user experience.

How To Uninstall System Apps On Android: Quick Workflow

Uninstalling system apps on Android devices can be challenging since many of these apps are pre-installed and designed to remain on the device. However, there are several methods to remove them without rooting your phone. Here’s a detailed guide on how to do this.

Methods to Uninstall System Apps

1. Using ADB (Android Debug Bridge)

ADB is a powerful tool that allows you to communicate with your Android device from a computer. Here’s how to use it:Prerequisites:

Enable Developer Options: Go to Settings > About Phone and tap on Build Number seven times.
Enable USB Debugging: In Developer Options, enable USB Debugging.
Install ADB on your computer.

Steps:

Connect your Android device to your computer via USB.
Open a command prompt or terminal window on your computer.
Enter the command adb devices to verify that your device is connected.
To find the package name of the app you want to uninstall, use:
adb shell pm list packages | grep '<AppName>'
Uninstall the app using:
adb shell pm uninstall -k --user 0 <PackageName>
Replace <PackageName> with the actual name of the app package you wish to remove.

This method allows you to uninstall many system apps without needing root access, but caution is advised as removing essential system apps can lead to issues with your device’s functionality.

2. Using Third-Party Applications

There are several third-party applications available that can help manage and uninstall system apps:

Universal Android Debloater: This tool simplifies the process of removing bloatware and system apps without needing root access. It requires ADB setup but provides a user-friendly interface for selecting and uninstalling apps.
ADB App Control: Similar to Universal Android Debloater, this application allows you to view all installed apps and uninstall those that are not needed.

3. Manual Uninstallation via Settings

Some system apps may allow uninstallation directly through the settings:

Open the Settings app.
Navigate to Apps & Notifications or Applications.
Tap on See All Apps.
Select the app you wish to uninstall and tap on Uninstall, if available.

Note that this method often works only for non-essential system apps, as many will be grayed out or show an option for “Disable” instead of “Uninstall” .

Methods to Remove or Disable Pre-installed Apps Without Root

maxresdefault How to Uninstall System Apps on Android Safely

Using Android Settings

Navigating to “Apps & Notifications” in the Settings menu

Start by opening Settings on your Android device. Scroll down and tap on Apps & Notifications. This section gives you a full list of installed applications, including the bloatware and pre-installed applications.

Steps to uninstall or disable apps

Once you’re in Apps & Notifications:

Find the app you wish to remove.
Tap on it to open the App Info screen.
If the Uninstall button is available, use it to remove the app.
If not, use the Disable button to prevent the app from running.

Limitations of this method (e.g., cannot remove essential system apps)

This method has limitations. Essential system apps like Google Play Store and System UI can’t be uninstalled. You may only be able to disable them, which doesn’t free up space but stops them from running and draining resources.

Removing Apps via the App Drawer

Accessing the app drawer and identifying target apps

Access the App Drawer by swiping up from the home screen or using the designated button. Browse through and identify the apps you want to remove. Look for unnecessary pre-installed apps and third-party bloatware.

Using “App Info” to uninstall apps, where possible

Press and hold the app icon you wish to remove. Select App Info from the context menu. If the Uninstall option is available, tap it. This will remove the app from your device, similar to how you manage download apps.

Disabling apps when uninstall is unavailable

When the uninstall option isn’t available, disabling is your next best bet. In the App Info screen, tap Disable. This stops the app from running, helps manage device resources, but doesn’t delete the app from your system.

Using ADB (Android Debug Bridge) to Remove Apps

Setting Up ADB

Downloading and installing ADB on a computer

First, download the ADB tool from the official Android developer site. It’s part of the Android SDK package, and you can get it for Windows, macOS, or Linux. Extract the files to a convenient location on your computer. This will allow you to run ADB commands from the terminal or command prompt.

Enabling USB Debugging on the Android device

On your Android device, go to Settings -> About Phone. Tap on Build Number seven times to unlock Developer Options. Go back to Settings -> Developer Options and enable USB Debugging. This step is crucial for using ADB effectively.

Connecting and Interfacing the Device with ADB

Establishing a connection and verifying device recognition

Connect your Android device to the computer using a USB cable. Open the terminal or command prompt on your computer and navigate to the directory where ADB is installed. Type adb devices to ensure ADB recognizes your device. Your Android’s serial number should appear, confirming a successful connection.

Navigating the ADB directory and launching the command line

Navigate to the ADB directory in the terminal or command prompt. Use the cd command to change directories. Once in the correct folder, you can start issuing ADB commands to interact with your Android device and manage apps.

Identifying and Removing Apps with ADB Commands

Listing all installed packages

Type adb shell pm list packages to list all installed packages on your device. This command will give you a comprehensive list, helping you identify the package names of unwanted apps. It’s the starting point for narrowing down what you want to remove.

Narrowing down results to specific apps

To find specific apps, use the grep command along with the list command to filter results. For example, adb shell pm list packages | grep samsung will list all Samsung-related apps. This helps in pinpointing which packages to remove.

Executing commands to uninstall apps for the current user

Once you have the package name, use the command adb shell pm uninstall -k --user 0 <package-name> to uninstall the app for the current user. Replace <package-name> with the actual package name of the app you want to remove. This uninstalls the app without root access.

Best Practices and Precautions for Using ADB

Avoiding removal of essential system apps

Be cautious about which apps you remove. Uninstalling essential system apps like Google Play Store or System UI can cause your device to malfunction. Stick to removing bloatware and non-essential pre-installed apps to avoid disrupting system stability.

Backing up important data before proceeding

Always back up your important data before using ADB commands. An inadvertent mistake can result in data loss or system issues. Use tools like Titanium Backup for a comprehensive backup of your Android apps and configurations.

Alternative Methods for Managing Pre-installed Apps

Disabling Apps

Steps to disable apps on different Android versions

To disable apps:

Modern Versions: Go to Settings -> Apps & Notifications -> See all apps.
Older Versions: Navigate to Settings -> Application Manager.

Find the app you want to disable. Tap on it, then select Disable. Some versions may show a warning, which you can proceed past by confirming your action.

Benefits of disabling apps over uninstalling

Disabling is safer than uninstalling, especially for essential system apps. Disabling stops all its processes and prevents it from consuming resources. You keep the app on your device in a dormant state without risking Android system instability. It’s a great way to handle system apps that can’t be deleted.

Hiding Apps

Making apps invisible on the home screen and app drawer

Open your Launcher Settings. Tap on Home Screen or Application Drawer Settings depending on your launcher. Choose Hide Applications. Select the apps you want to hide, such as the annoying bloatware or unnecessary pre-installed apps, and apply.

How to access hidden apps if needed

To access hidden apps, return to the Hide Applications section in your launcher settings. Uncheck the box next to the app you want to unhide. Alternatively, use an App Drawer search bar to locate and open the hidden app directly. This method is particularly useful for device maintenance.

Advanced Techniques: Rooting and App Removal

What is Rooting?

Explanation of root access and its implications

Rooting provides administrative privileges on your Android device, granting you full control over the system. This level of access transforms your phone into a highly customizable device but comes with its own set of challenges. It allows you to modify system files, run specialized apps, and remove pre-installed software.

Tools and methods to root an Android device

Multiple tools are available for rooting, each varying in complexity. KingoRoot and SuperSU are popular options. TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project) allows for custom recovery, which aids in the rooting process. These tools make the rooting process more accessible but require careful attention to instructions to avoid bricking your device.

Risks and Considerations of Rooting

Voiding warranty and potential system instability

Rooting often voids the manufacturer’s warranty. It can lead to system instability, especially if critical system files are modified or deleted. Procedures need to be followed meticulously. Devices can experience random reboots, crashing apps, or even fail to boot.

Increased security vulnerabilities

With root access, you lower the defenses of your device, making it more susceptible to malware and exploits. Unauthorized apps can gain root privileges, potentially compromising your personal data. Regular security updates might not be available post-root, adding another layer of risk.

Using Rooted Devices for App Removal

Tools like Titanium Backup for managing apps

Once rooted, tools like Titanium Backup become invaluable. This app allows you to back up, restore, and freeze your apps, including system apps. Magisk Manager is another tool that integrates well with root management, offering modules to further enhance functionality.

Steps to backup and safely remove system apps

Before removing any system app, back it up using Titanium Backup. Open the app, navigate to the Backup/Restore tab, and select the app. Choose Backup to save its current state. Once backed up, you can safely remove the app by selecting Uninstall. Be cautious to avoid removing essential apps like Google Play Store, as this can destabilize your system.

Specialized Solutions for Business Needs

Mobile Device Management (MDM) Solutions

Managing multiple devices through centralized control

As an enterprise, juggling multiple devices can be daunting. MDM solutions allow centralized control over a fleet of Android devices. This means managing pre-installed applications, enforcing security policies, and even pushing updates from a single dashboard. It simplifies how to uninstall system apps on Android across numerous devices.

Features like bulk app deletion and app allowlist/blocklist creation

MDM solutions shine with features tailored to business needs. Bulk app deletion lets you remove unwanted bloatware from multiple devices simultaneously. Creating app allowlists and blocklists ensures only approved applications are installed. Prevents unauthorized apps like unnecessary third-party bloatware, ensuring consistency and security across your organization.

Example: AirDroid Business

Key functionalities and advantages

AirDroid Business is a standout MDM tool. It offers remote control, allowing IT admins to troubleshoot without physical access. Device monitoring provides real-time status updates, and app management features streamline bulk operations. This includes installation, update, or removal tasks for apps on managed devices.

Streamlining app management for enterprises

AirDroid Business focuses on ease of use and efficiency. Its interface is intuitive, enabling quick onboarding for IT teams. The remote control feature eliminates geographical barriers in device management. This makes it easier to enforce app policies, schedule tasks, and ensure compliance across the board.

Practical Tips and Guidelines for App Removal

Preparing for App Removal

Backing up device data to avoid accidental loss

Before you start yanking out apps, back up your data. Always. Use Titanium Backup if you’re rooted, or Google’s built-in backup system if you’re not. This ensures that even if something goes sideways, your important data won’t vanish into thin air.

Researching app dependencies to prevent system instability

Don’t just go around deleting any app that annoys you. Some apps are tied to your system’s core functions. Use tools like App Inspector to dig into app dependencies. Make sure removing a specific app won’t take down essential functions or crash your device.

Tools and Resources for Simplifying the Process

GUI-based tools for ADB (e.g., ADB AppControl)

Not a fan of the command line? No problem. ADB AppControl offers a user-friendly graphical interface for managing your apps. It connects via ADB and lets you uninstall or disable apps with a few clicks, making the process less daunting.

App inspectors for identifying package names

For precise control, tools like App Inspector or Package Name Viewer help you find the exact package names of the apps you want to remove. Knowing these names is crucial when using ADB commands or other advanced methods to uninstall apps.

FAQ on How To Uninstall System Apps On Android

What are system apps on Android?

System apps are pre-installed applications on your Android device, embedded by the manufacturer or carrier. They often include things like Google Play Store, Device Administrator, and Samsung Android apps. These applications are typically more difficult to remove than downloadable apps.

Why should I remove system apps?

Removing system apps can free up space, improve device performance, and eliminate unwanted apps cluttering your Android. Clearing these apps, like bloatware and pre-installed applications, allows you to customize your device to better suit your needs.

Can I uninstall system apps without rooting my device?

You can disable system apps without rooting your device. While you cannot completely remove them, disabling them via Android settings and Device Administration can prevent these apps from running and taking up resources, offering a similar benefit.

How do I use ADB to remove system apps?

First, enable Developer Options and USB debugging on your Android. Connect your phone to a computer with ADB installed. Use ADB commands to identify and uninstall the unwanted system apps. This approach doesn’t require rooting and is reversible.

Is it safe to root my Android to uninstall system apps?

Rooting through tools like KingoRoot or SuperSU can offer full control over your device, but it may void warranties and pose security risks. Rooting lets you use advanced apps to remove system apps, like Titanium Backup.

Which rooting tools should I use to uninstall system apps?

KingoRoot, Magisk Manager, and SuperSU are popular tools for rooting Android devices. These tools let you gain root access, enabling you to install custom ROMs and remove system apps using apps like System App Remover.

Can I reinstall system apps after uninstalling them?

Generally, yes. After rooting your phone, you can reinstall system apps using APK files or backup apps like Titanium Backup. Ensure you’ve saved the original APK files before removal for an easier reinstall process.

How do I disable system apps?

Navigate to Settings -> Application Manager -> System Apps. Select the app you want to disable, and hit the disable button. This approach does not uninstall the app but prevents it from running or using any resources.

Are there any risks in using custom ROMs to remove system apps?

Custom ROMs like LineageOS can offer a clean slate without bloatware. However, flashing custom ROMs might void warranties and could make your device unstable if not done correctly. Always backup data before attempting this.

How do I ensure I don’t affect my device’s performance when removing system apps?

Stick to removing non-essential apps. Use XDA Developers for advice specific to your device model. Never remove core system apps like System UI or Google Play Store to avoid causing malfunctions in your Android system.

Conclusion

Uninstalling system apps on Android can significantly improve your device’s performance and free up valuable space. Armed with the knowledge of how to uninstall system apps on Android, you can confidently manage your apps, whether it’s through ADB commands, rooting, or simply disabling unwanted apps. Remember to consider the risks involved in rooting and using Custom ROMs like LineageOS.

Key Takeaways:

Disabling Apps: Navigate through Settings -> Application Manager for a simpler, non-intrusive method.
Using ADB: Execute commands after enabling USB debugging for a more technical, root-free approach.
Root Solutions: Tools like KingoRoot offer complete control but come with their own risks.

Being thorough with your choices ensures that you only remove unnecessary apps without compromising the core functionality of your device. With this guide, optimizing your Android experience becomes manageable and tailored to your needs.

If you liked this article about how to uninstall system apps on Android, you should check out this article about how to stop spam texts on Android.

There are also similar articles discussing how to transfer apps from Android to Android, how to transfer apps from Android to chromebook, how to ungroup apps on Android, and how to unhide apps on Android.

And let’s not forget about articles on how to uninstall apps on Android that won’t uninstall, how to unsleep an app on Android, how to add apps to Android Auto, and how to check screen time on Android.

Author
Recent Posts

Bogdan Sandu

Bogdan is a seasoned web designer and tech strategist, with a keen eye on emerging industry trends.

With over a decade in the tech field, Bogdan blends technical expertise with insights on business innovation in technology.

A regular contributor to TMS Outsource's blog, where you'll find sharp analyses on software development, tech business strategies, and global tech dynamics.