Uninstalling preinstalled apps on an Android tablet can be a frustrating experience for many users. These apps, also known as bloatware, are often unnecessary and take up valuable storage space on the device. However, they can’t be uninstalled like regular apps. In this blog post, we will explore different methods that you can use to remove these preinstalled apps from your Android tablet.
Video Tutorial:
Why You Need to Uninstall Preinstalled Apps on Android Tablet
There are several reasons why you might want to uninstall preinstalled apps on your Android tablet. Firstly, these apps can take up a significant amount of storage space on your device. This can be a problem, especially if your tablet has limited internal storage capacity.
Secondly, some preinstalled apps may run in the background and consume system resources, which can slow down your tablet’s performance. By removing these apps, you can free up system resources and improve your tablet’s overall speed and responsiveness.
Lastly, removing preinstalled apps can help declutter your tablet’s app drawer and home screen. It can make it easier to find and access the apps that you actually use and enjoy.
Method 1: Using the Settings App
Uninstalling preinstalled apps using the Settings app is the most straightforward method. Here’s how you can do it:
Step 1: Open the Settings app on your Android tablet.
Step 2: Scroll down and tap on “Apps” or “Application Manager” (varies depending on the device).
Step 3: Look for the preinstalled app that you want to uninstall and tap on it.
Step 4: Tap on the “Uninstall” button or choose the “Disable” option if uninstalling is not available.
Step 5: Follow the prompts to confirm the uninstallation or disable the app.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Easy and straightforward process to uninstall preinstalled apps. | 1. Some preinstalled apps may be essential for the device’s functionality. |
| 2. Frees up storage space on your tablet. | 2. Some preinstalled apps cannot be uninstalled, only disabled. |
| 3. Removes unnecessary apps from the app drawer and home screen. | 3. In rare cases, uninstalling certain preinstalled apps may cause stability issues. |
Method 2: Via ADB (Android Debug Bridge)
For more advanced users, the Android Debug Bridge (ADB) provides an alternative method to uninstall preinstalled apps. Here’s how you can use ADB to remove bloatware:
Step 1: Enable Developer Options on your Android tablet. Go to Settings > About phone/tablet and tap on the “Build number” multiple times until a message appears confirming that you are now a developer.
Step 2: Go back to the main settings screen and tap on “Developer options.”
Step 3: Enable USB debugging and connect your tablet to your computer using a USB cable.
Step 4: Open a command prompt or terminal on your computer and navigate to the folder where ADB is installed.
Step 5: Run the command “adb devices” to check if your device is recognized by ADB.
Step 6: Run the command “adb shell pm uninstall -k –user 0 [package_name]” to uninstall the preinstalled app. Replace “[package_name]” with the package name of the app you want to remove.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Allows for the removal of apps that cannot be uninstalled through the Settings app. | 1. Requires enabling Developer Options and USB debugging, which may not be suitable for all users. |
| 2. Provides more control and flexibility over the uninstallation process. | 2. Improper use of ADB can potentially cause issues with your device. |
| 3. Can help remove stubborn preinstalled apps that continue to run in the background. | 3. Requires a computer and a USB connection for the ADB setup. |
Method 3: Using Third-Party Apps
If you prefer a user-friendly interface and don’t want to use ADB, there are third-party apps available on the Google Play Store that can help you uninstall preinstalled apps. Here’s how you can use one of these apps:
Step 1: Open the Google Play Store on your Android tablet.
Step 2: Search for and install a third-party app uninstaller like Debloater, System App Remover, or Titanium Backup.
Step 3: Open the app and grant it the necessary permissions.
Step 4: Select the preinstalled app that you want to uninstall and follow the app’s prompts to remove it.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Easy to use with a user-friendly interface. | 1. Requires downloading and installing a third-party app. |
| 2. Offers additional features and options for managing preinstalled apps. | 3. Some third-party app uninstallers may display ads or contain in-app purchases. |
| 3. Can help identify and remove preinstalled apps that are not easily recognizable. | 3. May not work for all preinstalled apps, especially system-level apps. |
Method 4: Blocking Preinstalled Apps with ADB
If you can’t uninstall preinstalled apps using the methods mentioned above, you can still prevent them from running and appearing in the app drawer by blocking them with ADB. Here’s how:
Step 1: Enable Developer Options and USB debugging on your Android tablet.
Step 2: Connect your device to your computer and open a command prompt or terminal.
Step 3: Run the command “adb shell pm block [package_name]” to block the preinstalled app. Replace “[package_name]” with the package name of the app you want to block.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Prevents preinstalled apps from running and cluttering your app drawer. | 1. Cannot fully uninstall or remove the preinstalled app from your device. |
| 2. Provides a workaround for apps that can’t be uninstalled or disabled. | 2. Requires enabling Developer Options and USB debugging. |
| 3. Helps optimize system resources by preventing unnecessary apps from running in the background. | 3. Blocking preinstalled apps may potentially cause instability or compatibility issues. |
What to Do If You Can’t Uninstall Preinstalled Apps
If you find that you are unable to uninstall preinstalled apps using any of the methods mentioned above, there are a few alternative fixes you can try:
– Disable the app: If uninstalling is not an option, you can choose to disable the preinstalled app instead. This will prevent it from running in the background and taking up system resources.
– Use a custom ROM: Installing a custom ROM on your Android tablet can give you more control over the software and allow you to remove preinstalled apps. However, this method requires technical knowledge and may result in voiding your device’s warranty.
– Hide the app: Instead of removing the preinstalled app, you can choose to hide it from your app drawer and home screen. This can be done using third-party launcher apps, which offer customization options for managing app visibility.
Bonus Tips
Here are three bonus tips to help you manage preinstalled apps on your Android tablet:
1. Clear app cache: Even if you can’t uninstall a preinstalled app, clearing its cache can help free up some storage space on your tablet. You can do this by going to Settings > Apps > Select the app > Storage > Clear cache.
2. Update your device: Keeping your Android tablet up to date with the latest software updates can sometimes remove or disable preinstalled apps. Manufacturers occasionally release updates that allow users to remove certain bloatware.
3. Consult online forums: If you’re having trouble removing a specific preinstalled app, consider searching online forums or communities dedicated to your specific Android device. You may find guides or workarounds that are specific to your device model.
5 FAQs
Q1: Are all preinstalled apps considered bloatware?
A: Not all preinstalled apps on your Android tablet are considered bloatware. Some apps are essential for the device’s functionality and cannot be uninstalled without rooting or using advanced methods.
Q2: Can I reinstall a preinstalled app after uninstalling it?
A: In most cases, you can reinstall a preinstalled app after uninstalling it. However, some apps may require a system update or require downloading them from the Google Play Store.
Q3: Will uninstalling preinstalled apps void my warranty?
A: Uninstalling preinstalled apps through the methods mentioned in this blog post will not void your device’s warranty. However, it’s always a good idea to check your device’s warranty terms and conditions to be sure.
Q4: Can I remove preinstalled apps without rooting my Android tablet?
A: Yes, you can remove preinstalled apps without rooting your Android tablet by using the methods mentioned in this blog post. Rooting your device is not necessary for these methods.
Q5: Can I uninstall preinstalled apps on all Android tablets?
A: The ability to uninstall preinstalled apps can vary depending on the manufacturer and model of your Android tablet. While most devices allow for the removal of certain apps, there are exceptions where removal is not possible.
Final Thoughts
Uninstalling preinstalled apps on your Android tablet can help free up storage space, improve performance, and declutter your device. Whether you choose to use the Settings app, ADB, third-party apps, or block the apps altogether, these methods provide different approaches to removing bloatware. Remember to exercise caution and research specific instructions before attempting any advanced methods. By following the steps outlined in this blog post, you can gain more control over your Android tablet and optimize its performance according to your preferences.