If you’re a proud owner of a Samsung Galaxy S20, you’ve likely discovered the vast range of applications available at your fingertips. From productivity tools to game apps, the possibilities are endless. However, as you download new apps or are perhaps inundated with pre-installed ones that you don’t use, you may find that your phone becomes cluttered or sluggish. This is where knowing how to uninstall apps becomes essential! In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the multiple straightforward methods you can use to uninstall apps on your Samsung S20, ensuring that your device runs smoothly and stays personalized to your needs.
Why Uninstall Apps?
Before diving into the “how-to,” let’s talk about the why. Uninstalling apps is often crucial for several reasons:
- Free Up Storage Space: Each app you install consumes storage on your device. Removing apps that you no longer use can release valuable space.
- Improved Performance: Reducing the number of apps can help in optimizing your device’s performance, leading to a faster and smoother user experience.
Understanding these benefits reinforces the importance of periodically reviewing and managing your app selections.
Method 1: Uninstall Apps via Settings
One of the most straightforward methods to uninstall apps on your Samsung S20 is through the Settings app. This method is particularly effective if you want to gain a detailed view of all installed applications.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Open Settings: Start by tapping the gear icon on your home screen or app drawer to open the Settings menu.
- Navigating to Apps: Scroll down and select “Apps.” This will take you to a list of all installed applications on your device.
- Select the App: Scroll through the list to find the app you wish to uninstall. Tap on it to enter the app information screen.
- Uninstall the App: At the bottom of the app info screen, you will see an option to “Uninstall.” Tap this button.
- Confirm Uninstallation: A confirmation pop-up will appear. Tap “OK” to confirm that you want to uninstall the app.
This method is reliable and provides you with additional information about each app, allowing you to make informed decisions.
Method 2: Uninstall Apps via the App Drawer
If you prefer a more visual approach, you can uninstall apps directly from the app drawer. This method is faster and is particularly effective if you are already familiar with the layout of your installed applications.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Access the App Drawer: Swipe up from the home screen to access the app drawer where all your apps are displayed.
- Locate the App: Find the app you want to uninstall by scrolling through the icons.
- Long Press on the App Icon: Tap and hold the app icon. A menu will appear.
- Select Uninstall: Tap on the “Uninstall” option that appears in the menu.
- Confirm: Confirm the uninstallation by tapping “OK” in the pop-up window.
This method is particularly intuitive and ideal for users who enjoy a hands-on approach.
Method 3: Use Samsung’s One UI Home Screen
Samsung’s One UI allows users to manage apps directly from the home screen, giving you even more flexibility.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Find the App on Your Home Screen: Navigate to the app you want to uninstall.
- Long Press the App Icon: Just like in the app drawer, press and hold the icon until a menu appears.
- Select Remove or Uninstall: You will now see options including “Remove” and “Uninstall.” Choose “Uninstall.”
- Confirm Uninstallation: Agree to the prompt that follows to complete the removal.
This method is great for users who frequently rearrange their home screen, making it easy to manage app space seamlessly.
Method 4: Utilizing the Device Care Feature
Samsung’s Device Care feature allows you to optimize performance, which includes managing your apps. While this method does not focus exclusively on uninstalling apps, it provides a holistic view of your device’s health.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Open Settings: Go to your device’s settings.
- Choose Device Care: Locate and select “Device Care.”
- Tap on Storage: Under the Device Care menu, tap on the “Storage” option to see available storage and organized apps.
- Manage Apps: This section will provide insights into apps consuming excessive storage. You can choose to uninstall them directly from here.
This method not only addresses app uninstallation but also enhances overall device performance.
Method 5: Uninstalling Pre-installed Apps
Your Samsung S20 might come with several pre-installed apps, also known as bloatware. While you may not be able to uninstall all of them, some can be removed entirely.
How to Identify Removable Apps:
Many pre-installed apps can be disabled rather than uninstalled outright. However, for those that can be entirely removed, follow the steps below.
- Go to Settings > Apps: As previously described, access the apps section via Settings.
- Identify Pre-installed Apps: Look for bloatware apps, which are usually labeled as system apps.
- Check for Uninstall Option: Not all system apps will have the uninstall option; only those that are removable will show the option.
- Follow the Uninstallation Steps: Use the same steps as before to uninstall these apps where possible.
If you can only disable an app, that will stop it from running, saving your device some performance load.
Tips for Maintaining Device Performance
Keeping your Samsung S20 optimized goes beyond merely uninstalling apps. Here are some additional tips to keep your device running smoothly:
Regular App Audit:
Regularly review and uninstall apps you no longer use. Set reminders to check your apps monthly or every few months.
Update Your Apps:
Ensure that the apps you retain are updated to their latest versions. Developers often release updates that improve performance and security.
Clear Cache:
Periodically clearing the cache of your apps can free up storage space and improve performance. You can find this option in the app info section.
Back Up Data:
Before uninstalling apps, consider backing up any important data they may contain, especially if you plan to restore or reinstall them later.
Conclusion
Uninstalling apps on your Samsung Galaxy S20 doesn’t have to be a daunting experience. By following the methods outlined in this guide, you can easily manage your applications, freeing up space and ensuring optimal performance. Whether through the Settings app, the app drawer, One UI, or utilizing the Device Care feature, each method offers unique advantages for customizing your device to suit your personal preference.
Regularly reviewing your installed apps is an excellent habit that not only enhances your user experience but also prolongs the longevity of your device. Embrace the freedom of a personalized smartphone experience, and keep your Galaxy S20 operating at its best!
What is the simplest way to uninstall an app on my Samsung S20?
To uninstall an app on your Samsung S20, the simplest method is to access the app drawer and locate the application you want to remove. From the app drawer, press and hold the app icon until a menu appears. Once the menu is displayed, you can either tap on “Uninstall” or drag the app icon to the “Uninstall” option that appears at the top of the screen.
After tapping “Uninstall,” a confirmation message will pop up to ensure you want to proceed. Simply confirm your choice, and the app will be removed from your device. This method is quick and convenient for managing your applications efficiently.
Can I uninstall pre-installed apps on my Samsung S20?
Many pre-installed apps, often referred to as bloatware, can be disabled or uninstalled on the Samsung S20, but it depends on the app. Some system apps can only be disabled rather than uninstalled completely. To disable an app, go to “Settings,” then “Apps,” find the app you want to disable, and tap on “Disable.” This action will prevent the app from running and will remove it from your app drawer.
Keep in mind that disabling certain pre-installed apps might affect other functions on your device, so it’s a good idea to identify which apps are safe to disable before proceeding. If you prefer to remove an app entirely, check if there’s an option to uninstall it directly from the “Apps” settings.
What happens if I uninstall an app on my Samsung S20?
When you uninstall an app on your Samsung S20, the application and its associated data will be removed from your device. This means that you will lose any saved settings, progress, or files that were linked specifically to that app. For instance, if you uninstall a game, you may lose your levels or in-game purchases unless the app has a cloud save feature.
However, it is essential to note that uninstalling an app does not delete data stored on cloud services or external storage. If the app was connected to an online account, you might still be able to access your information by reinstalling the app and signing back in. Always check if there’s an option to back up your data before proceeding with an uninstallation.
How can I uninstall multiple apps at once on my Samsung S20?
Uninstalling multiple apps at once on your Samsung S20 can save you time. To do this, start by opening the “Settings” app and navigating to “Apps.” Once you’re in the apps list, you may see an option to view “Special Access” or a similar feature that allows batch actions for apps, although this greatly depends on your device’s software version.
If batch uninstallation is not directly available, an alternative method is to use the app drawer. You can press and hold on to one app and then select multiple apps that you want to uninstall. After selecting the desired apps, look for an “Uninstall” option either in the menu or at the top of the screen. Confirm your choices, and the selected apps will be removed from your device in one go.
Is there a way to reinstall an app after uninstalling it on my Samsung S20?
Yes, if you decide you want to reinstall an app after uninstalling it on your Samsung S20, it’s a straightforward process. First, open the Google Play Store app or the Samsung Galaxy Store. Use the search bar to find the specific app you wish to reinstall. Once you’ve located the app, simply tap on it and select the “Install” button.
After the installation is complete, you’ll have access to the app again. If the app was previously connected to an account, you may have the opportunity to restore your data by logging back in. Ensure that you have your login credentials handy to facilitate this process, making it easy to get back to where you left off.
Will uninstalling an app improve my Samsung S20’s performance?
Uninstalling unnecessary apps can indeed help improve your Samsung S20’s performance. When you remove apps that are not in use, it frees up storage space on your device, which can lead to enhanced system responsiveness and reduced load times. Additionally, fewer apps running in the background can decrease the strain on your phone’s memory and battery life.
It’s important to regularly evaluate the apps on your device. Uninstalling bloatware or apps that you no longer use not only streamlines your home screen but also optimizes the overall user experience. You may notice smoother navigation and an increase in battery efficiency after removing resource-heavy applications.
Are there any apps that should not be uninstalled from my Samsung S20?
Yes, there are certain apps that are essential for the proper functioning of your Samsung S20, and you should avoid uninstalling them. These system apps include core applications like the phone dialer, messaging app, and settings tool. Removing these applications can lead to a loss of critical functionalities on your device.
Additionally, some pre-installed apps may play a role in the security and updates of your device. Therefore, it’s advisable to do some research on specific apps before proceeding with uninstallation. If you’re unsure about an app, consider disabling it to test the impact on your device rather than completely removing it.