Attention Mac Users: Get Rid of Unwanted Apps in Simple Steps
Hello Challenger, as a Mac user, it is common to download new apps and software on your device. However, over time, you may find yourself with too many unused or unwanted apps taking up valuable space on your hard drive. If you are wondering how to delete apps on Mac, you’ve come to the right place. This comprehensive guide will teach you everything you need to know about removing apps on every version of MacOS. So, let’s get started!
Introduction
Mac computers are known for their efficiency and functionality. However, the process of deleting apps on a Mac can be daunting for some users. It’s not always as simple as dragging the app icon to the trash bin. To completely remove an app and its associated files, there are a few steps you need to follow.
In this guide, we will walk you through the process of deleting apps on Mac, including built-in methods as well as third-party software. We’ll also cover a variety of versions of MacOS, so whether you’re using the latest MacOS Big Sur or an older version, you’ll be able to follow along.
By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly how to delete apps on Mac and reclaim valuable space on your hard drive.
Table: Complete Guide to Deleting Apps on Mac
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Method 1: Drag and Drop | A simple, built-in method for deleting apps on Mac. |
| Method 2: Launchpad | A quick way to delete apps from your Mac’s Launchpad. |
| Method 3: Applications Folder | An alternative way to delete apps on Mac using the Applications folder. |
| Method 4: Terminal | A method for advanced users that allows the user to delete apps and associated files. |
| Method 5: Third-Party Software | A variety of third-party software options for deleting apps on Mac. |
How to Delete Apps on Mac
Method 1: Drag and Drop
The simplest and most common method for deleting an app on Mac is to drag and drop it to the trash can. Here are the steps:
Step 1: Find the app you want to delete.
Step 2: Click and hold the app’s icon.
Step 3: Drag the app’s icon to the trash can located in the Dock.
Step 4: Right-click the trash can and select “Empty Trash”.
Congratulations, you have successfully deleted your selected app! This method works for most apps on your Mac, but some apps require an additional step for complete deletion.
Method 2: Launchpad
If you prefer Launchpad to the Dock, you can use this method to delete apps. Here are the steps:
Step 1: Open Launchpad by clicking on its icon in the Dock or searching for it using Spotlight (shortcut: Command + Space).
Step 2: Locate the app you want to delete.
Step 3: Click and hold the app’s icon until it begins to wiggle.
Step 4: Click the “X” icon that appears in the upper-left corner of the app icon.
Step 5: If prompted, click “Delete” to confirm.
Method 3: Applications Folder
If you prefer using Finder to delete apps, you can use this method. Here are the steps:
Step 1: Open Finder.
Step 2: Click on “Applications” in the sidebar.
Step 3: Find the app you want to delete.
Step 4: Drag the app icon to the trash bin in the Dock.
Step 5: Right-click the trash can and select “Empty Trash”.
Congratulations, the selected app is now completely removed from your Mac via Finder.
Method 4: Terminal
Terminal is a powerful tool that allows advanced users to perform various tasks, including deleting apps and associated files. Here are the steps:
Step 1: Open Terminal.
Step 2: Type “sudo rm -rf /Applications/AppName.app” (without quotes) and press Enter.
Step 3: Type your password, then press Enter again.
Step 4: If prompted, type “Y” and press Enter again.
Note: Be very careful when using Terminal, as it can irreversibly delete files from your system if used improperly.
Method 5: Third-Party Software
There are many third-party apps available that can assist you in removing unwanted apps and their associated files. Here are a few examples:
- AppCleaner
- CleanMyMac
- CCleaner
Check them out and see which one fits your needs the best.
FAQs
How do I uninstall an app that isn’t in the Applications folder?
Some apps may be installed on your Mac without being located in the Applications folder. These apps may have been installed from a .dmg file or another type of installer. To uninstall these apps, simply locate the installer file and run it again. During the installation process, you’ll be given the option to uninstall the app.
Can I restore deleted apps on my Mac?
It depends on how you deleted the app. If you used the drag-and-drop method or Launchpad, you can still recover the app from the trash can before it is emptied. However, if you used Terminal or another method that permanently deletes the app, it may be difficult or impossible to recover.
How do I delete system apps on my Mac?
It’s generally not recommended to delete system apps on your Mac, as it can cause instability and other issues with your system. However, if you must delete a system app, use Terminal and be extremely careful.
What are the benefits of deleting unused apps on my Mac?
Deleting unused apps can free up valuable space on your hard drive and improve the overall performance of your Mac.
Can I delete multiple apps at once on my Mac?
Yes, you can delete multiple apps at once by selecting them in Finder or Launchpad and then dragging them to the trash can or using the “Delete” button.
How do I delete apps on a Mac running MacOS Big Sur?
The steps for deleting apps on MacOS Big Sur are the same as for earlier versions. You can use any of the methods mentioned in this guide to delete apps on MacOS Big Sur.
What should I do if an app won’t delete on my Mac?
If an app won’t delete using the methods described in this guide, try restarting your Mac and then attempting to delete the app again. If that doesn’t work, try using a third-party app like AppCleaner to remove the app.
Will deleting an app on Mac delete associated files?
Not always. In some cases, deleting an app using the built-in methods may leave behind associated files. To completely remove an app and all its associated files, make sure you follow the appropriate steps outlined in this guide.
Can I delete apps on my Mac using iCloud?
No, the iCloud service is primarily for syncing and storing data between Apple devices. It cannot be used to delete apps on your Mac.
How do I know if I have deleted an app completely on my Mac?
To ensure that you have completely deleted an app and all its associated files, check your hard drive for leftover files using Finder or a third-party app like CleanMyMac.
Does deleting apps on my Mac affect my system settings or preferences?
No, deleting apps on your Mac should not affect your system settings or preferences unless they were directly related to the deleted app.
Can I delete apps on my Mac using Time Machine backups?
Yes, you can use Time Machine backups to restore your Mac to a previous state where the app you wanted deleted was not on the system.
How often should I delete apps on my Mac?
It’s best to regularly evaluate the apps you have installed on your Mac and delete any that you are no longer using. This will help keep your hard drive free of clutter and ensure optimal performance.
Can I delete apps on my Mac without affecting other programs?
Yes, deleting an app on your Mac should not affect other programs unless they were directly related to the deleted app.
Is it safe to use third-party software to delete apps on my Mac?
Yes, as long as you use reputable third-party software, it’s safe to use them to delete apps on your Mac. Be sure to research the software you choose and verify that it is legitimate before downloading and using it.
Conclusion
Congratulations, Challenger! You’ve reached the end of our comprehensive guide on how to delete apps on Mac. We hope you found it informative and helpful. Remember, there are many methods for deleting apps on your Mac, including built-in and third-party options. Follow the appropriate steps to ensure that the app and all its associated files are completely removed from your system.
If you have any further questions or need additional help, feel free to reach out to Apple support or search for additional resources online. Happy app deleting!
Disclaimer
The information and steps provided in this guide are for informational purposes only. It is always recommended to do a backup before performing any changes to your system. We are not responsible for any loss of data or malfunctioning on your device.