Unable to delete apps on iPhone home screen? 4 quick fixes to force delete them
Apps are so necessary to do all types of things that we can have hundreds of them on our phones. When you find a better one or stop using an app altogether, deleting them is usually easy. However, what do you do if you are unable to delete apps on iPhone? How do you force delete unwanted apps if the small “-” or “x” doesn’t appear?
How do you force delete apps on iPhone?
If you are asking the question why can’t I delete apps on my iPhone? This post will guide you through some tips to fix the problem whilst also showing you how to force delete apps on iPhone.
1. Restart the iPhone
The first fix to try is a restart. Turning the iPhone off and letting it start up again could solve the issue if it is a simple operating system glitch. Let the iPhone shut down completely before turning it back on again.
2. Are you being restricted from deleting apps?
The iPhone comes with a range of restrictions which allow you to control who can perform various functions. One such function is to stop children making changes to the apps on your phone.
To check, go to “Settings > Screen Time > Content and Privacy Restrictions”.
Next, go to “iTunes and App Store purchases”. Enter your passcode if needed. Scroll down to find the “Deleting Apps” option under the “Store Purchases & Re-Downloads” menu to make sure that it is set to “Allow”.
This option is a major reason why some users have experienced problems with deleting apps on iPhone. It has prevented many users who can’t remove apps in iOS 14 and iOS15.
3. Try the settings menu if unable to delete apps on iPhone from the home screen
Many of us want to get rid of an app as it is slowing down our iPhone. Therefore, if you are unable to delete apps on iPhone from the home screen then try using the settings menu.
Go to “Settings > General > iPhone Storage”. Scroll down to find the app you wish to delete and select it. When the subsequent app screen opens up, press the red “Delete App” option.
There is also a handy “offload app” option here, which is useful if you are short on storage space. This function will remove the app, but keep its settings and app data in case you want to restore it.
4. Use App Store if you are unable to delete apps on iPhone
Removing the app in this way is a last resort if other options don’t work. It’s a handy method if you are looking to speed up a slow iPhone by removing or force deleting unwanted apps.
Open the App Store on your iPhone and tap on the profile picture or your initials in the top right of your account page.
Scroll down to locate the app that you wish to remove. Swipe right on the app that you are unable to remove and hit the delete option.
Solutions if you unable to delete iPhone apps overall
Apps are the lifeblood of our phones. However, getting rid of them can sometimes be an issue. If you are unable to delete iPhone apps from the home screen then the settings menu and App Store are equally viable options. If you need to get an iPhone repair or some advice about removing unwanted apps then talk to us.