Remove Built-In iOS Apps: A Step-by-Step Guide
Removing Stock Apple Apps in iOS 10
Users of iPhones and iPads often find themselves with pre-installed Apple applications that they simply do not use. iOS 10 introduced a welcome feature addressing this concern: the capability to remove these stock apps.
This functionality frees up valuable screen space, allowing for a more customized and streamlined user experience.
For Users on Older iOS Versions
If your device is still operating on iOS 9 or an earlier version, the direct removal option isn't available. However, alternative methods for concealing applications exist.
These older techniques, while not as effective as the iOS 10 feature, can still help to declutter your home screen. You can find details on these methods in our dedicated article.
Further Exploration of iOS 10
iOS 10 brought with it a wealth of new features and improvements.
To learn more about the complete range of enhancements and how to utilize them, explore our comprehensive guide to the best new features in iOS 10.
This resource provides detailed instructions and insights into maximizing your iOS 10 experience.
Hidden From View: Managing Your Home Screen
It’s important to understand from the outset that this new functionality allows for the removal of apps from your home screen, but does not uninstall the applications themselves from your device. The icons are simply concealed.
This feature addresses a common user request regarding pre-installed applications.
A number of the apps that are pre-loaded onto your iOS device are fundamental to the operation of Siri and other iOS features. Complete removal of these could negatively impact system performance.
However, Apple recognizes that many users do not regularly utilize applications such as "News," "Find My Friends," or "Game Center" and prefer not to have their icons prominently displayed.
Instead of requiring users to manually organize these apps into dedicated folders, a more streamlined solution has been implemented.
Consequently, it should be noted that removing these apps will not reclaim storage space on your iPhone or iPad. The apps remain installed, but are hidden from immediate view.
Despite this limitation, the ability to declutter your home screen and reduce visual distractions is a beneficial improvement.
Apps That Can Be Hidden on Your Device
Discover which pre-installed applications can now be concealed using a recent feature. The following is a comprehensive list of apps that are eligible for removal from view:
- Calculator
- Music
- Calendar
- News
- Compass
- Notes
- Contacts
- Podcasts
- FaceTime
- Reminders
- Find My Friends
- Stocks
- Home
- Tips
- iBooks
- Videos
- iCloud Drive
- Voice Memos
- iTunes Store
- Watch
- Weather
- Maps
Further Reading: A Guide to Resetting Your iPhone or iPad’s Home Screen Arrangement
It’s important to understand certain limitations associated with this functionality. Deleting the Contacts app does not erase your contact information; it merely hides the application icon, while access to contacts remains available through the Phone app.
Removing the Music app will disable music playback within CarPlay. However, users who frequently utilize Music with CarPlay are unlikely to remove the app.
To remove the Watch app, you must first unpair your Apple Watch. This is a necessary step, especially if you no longer own the device.
Additionally, some applications may appear to be pre-installed but are actually downloaded separately. For example, apps like Pages and GarageBand, created by Apple, are often installed upon initial device setup.
These are not considered core iOS applications and can be removed like any other app from the App Store, freeing up storage space on your device.
Removing Stock Apps From Your iPhone Home Screen
As previously discussed, removing an app from your home screen differs from complete deletion. We’ve already identified which default applications can be hidden using this method. The process itself is surprisingly straightforward.
To begin, firmly press and hold on the app icon until it starts to jiggle. A small "X" symbol will then appear in the top-left corner of the icon.
Removing the App
Tap the "X" icon to initiate the removal process. This action doesn't delete the app, but rather removes it from your home screen.
A confirmation prompt will appear, asking if you are sure you want to remove the app from the home screen.
Once confirmed, the app’s shortcut will be instantly removed from your home screen. The application itself remains installed on your device, accessible through the App Library.
Recovering Default Applications to Your iPhone's Home Screen
The process of reinstating stock applications is remarkably straightforward. Begin by launching the App Store application and entering the name of the desired app into the search bar.
Locate and select the option to download the app from the cloud.
A Unique Download Experience
This differs from a typical app download. The application isn't actually being retrieved from Apple’s servers, as it remained on your device all along.
The "download" action will complete almost instantly, with the download icon quickly changing to an "Open" button.
Consequently, the app icon will reappear on your home screen, allowing you to arrange it according to your preferences.
Important Note: This process leverages the changes introduced in iOS 10.
Simplified App Management
Thanks to the updates in iOS 10, users can now remove seldom-used applications without needing complex workarounds.
Previously, users often resorted to placing unwanted apps within folders as a temporary solution.
This new method provides a cleaner and more efficient way to manage the apps on your device.