Main points
- Locate the app you wish to delete in the Launchpad grid.
- Drag the app icon from the Applications folder to the Trash icon located in your Dock.
- Click on the “Purchased” tab located at the top of the App Store window.
Decluttering your MacBook Air can significantly enhance its performance and user experience. Removing unused or unwanted apps frees up valuable storage space and streamlines your workflow. This comprehensive guide will empower you with step-by-step instructions on how to delete MacBook Air apps effectively and effortlessly.
Using the Launchpad
1. Open the Launchpad: Click on the Launchpad icon located in your Dock or use Spotlight Search.
2. Identify the App: Locate the app you wish to delete in the Launchpad grid.
3. Hold and Delete: Press and hold the app icon until it starts to wiggle. Click on the “x” that appears in the corner of the icon.
4. Confirm Deletion: A confirmation window will pop up. Click on “Delete” to remove the app.
Removing Apps via the Applications Folder
1. Open the Applications Folder: Navigate to the Applications folder in your Finder window.
2. Locate the App: Identify the app you want to delete from the list of installed applications.
3. Drag to Trash: Drag the app icon from the Applications folder to the Trash icon located in your Dock.
4. Empty Trash: Right-click on the Trash icon and select “Empty Trash” to permanently remove the app.
Deleting Apps Using the Terminal
1. Open Terminal: Use Spotlight Search to launch the Terminal application.
2. Enter Command: Type the following command into the Terminal window: `sudo rm -rf /Applications/[app name].app`
3. Replace [app name]: Replace “[app name]” with the actual name of the app you wish to delete.
4. Provide Password: Enter your administrator password when prompted and press Enter.
5. Confirm Deletion: The app will be immediately deleted without any further confirmation.
Uninstalling Apps with Third-Party Software
1. Install an App Uninstaller: There are several third-party app uninstallers available, such as AppCleaner or CleanMyMac X.
2. Launch the Uninstaller: Open the app uninstaller and scan for installed applications.
3. Select the App: Choose the app you wish to delete from the list.
4. Uninstall: Click on the “Uninstall” or “Remove” button to initiate the uninstallation process.
5. Restart: Some uninstallers may require you to restart your MacBook Air to complete the process.
Deleting Apps from the App Store
1. Open the App Store: Launch the App Store application from your Dock or Applications folder.
2. Go to Purchased: Click on the “Purchased” tab located at the top of the App Store window.
3. Locate the App: Find the app you want to delete from the list of purchased apps.
4. Click on the “…” Button: Click on the “…” button next to the app name.
5. Select “Delete”: Choose “Delete” from the drop-down menu to remove the app.
Removing Pre-Installed Apps
1. Enter Recovery Mode: Restart your MacBook Air and immediately hold down the Command (⌘) and R keys.
2. Open Utilities: Once in Recovery Mode, select “Utilities” from the menu bar.
3. Launch Terminal: Choose “Terminal” from the Utilities menu.
4. Enter Command: Type the following command into the Terminal window: `sudo rm -rf /System/Applications/[app name].app`
5. Replace [app name]: Replace “[app name]” with the actual name of the pre-installed app you wish to delete.
6. Provide Password: Enter your administrator password when prompted and press Enter.
7. Confirm Deletion: The app will be immediately deleted without any further confirmation.
Basics You Wanted To Know
1. Can I recover deleted apps?
Yes, you can recover deleted apps if you have a recent Time Machine backup. Otherwise, it may not be possible to retrieve the app.
2. Is it safe to delete pre-installed apps?
While it is generally not recommended to delete pre-installed apps, some non-essential apps can be safely removed without affecting system functionality. However, proceed with caution and research the specific app before deleting it.
3. How can I prevent apps from automatically updating?
To prevent apps from automatically updating, go to System Preferences > Software Update and uncheck the box next to “Automatically keep my Mac up to date.