To delete a hidden app on an iPhone running iOS 17, you need to navigate to the App Library, find the app, long-press it, and select “Delete App.” Confirm the deletion and the app will be removed from your device.
After completing this action, the app will no longer be visible or accessible on your iPhone, freeing up storage space and decluttering your App Library.
You can also watch this video about how to delete a hidden app on iPhone for additional information.
Introduction
Have you ever downloaded an app on your iPhone that you later wanted to get rid of, but couldn’t find it on your home screen? Or maybe you’ve hidden an app to keep it away from prying eyes but now you want it gone for good? Whatever your reasons might be, the ability to delete hidden apps is a valuable skill for any iPhone user. Especially with the latest iOS 17 update, it’s essential to know how to manage your applications effectively.
Deleting a hidden app might seem like finding a needle in a haystack, but it’s actually pretty straightforward once you know where to look. This process not only helps you keep your iPhone organized but also ensures that you have complete control over the apps installed on your device. Whether you’re a parent managing your child’s app usage, a professional trying to maintain a clean work phone, or just someone who loves a tidy interface, this article is for you. So let’s dive in and learn how to delete those elusive hidden apps from your iPhone.
Step by Step Tutorial: How to Delete a Hidden App on iPhone
The following steps will guide you through the process of deleting a hidden app from your iPhone running iOS 17.
Step 1: Access the App Library
Swipe left on your iPhone’s home screen until you reach the App Library.
The App Library is a new addition that came with iOS 14 and has been carried over to iOS 17. It’s the place where all your apps are automatically organized into categories. If a particular app isn’t on your home screen, it’s almost certainly here.
Step 2: Find the Hidden App
Look for the app you want to delete or use the search bar at the top of the screen to find it quickly.
If you have a lot of apps, this might take a minute, but the App Library is designed to make it easier to find what you’re looking for. If you know the name of the app, using the search bar is the fastest way to locate it.
Step 3: Long-Press the App
Once you’ve found the app, long-press its icon until a menu appears.
Long-pressing means pressing and holding the app icon for a couple of seconds. This action will bring up a contextual menu with various options, one of which will be to delete the app.
Step 4: Tap “Delete App”
In the menu that appears, tap “Delete App.”
This will prompt a confirmation dialogue box to appear, asking if you’re sure you want to delete the app. This is a safeguard to prevent accidental deletions.
Step 5: Confirm the Deletion
Confirm that you want to delete the app by tapping “Delete.”
After you confirm, the app will be deleted from your App Library and your iPhone. This action is irreversible, so make sure you want to delete the app before confirming.
Pros
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Frees Up Storage Space | Deleting hidden apps that you no longer use can free up valuable storage space on your iPhone. This is particularly useful if you have a device with limited storage capacity. After all, why let an app you don’t use take up space that could be used for photos, videos, or other apps that you actually enjoy? |
| Declutters App Library | An organized App Library makes it easier to find the apps you do use. By removing the ones you don’t, you can streamline the interface and improve your overall user experience. |
| Enhances Privacy | If you’ve hidden an app for privacy reasons but no longer need it, deleting it ensures that it’s gone for good. This way, you don’t have to worry about someone stumbling upon it accidentally. |
Cons
| Drawback | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Irreversible Action | Once you delete an app, it’s gone for good. If you decide you need it again, you’ll have to re-download it from the App Store, which might not be convenient, especially if you’re in an area with a spotty internet connection. |
| Potential Data Loss | Deleting an app also deletes its data. If there’s information within the app that you want to keep, make sure to back it up or transfer it before you delete the app. |
| Time-Consuming Search | Finding the hidden app you want to delete can be time-consuming, especially if you have a lot of apps and you’re not exactly sure what it’s called. Searching through the App Library can feel like a chore if you’re in a hurry. |
Additional Information
When it comes to managing apps on your iPhone, especially after updating to iOS 17, there’s a bit more to consider than just deleting the ones you don’t need. For starters, be aware that some pre-installed Apple apps cannot be deleted. So, if you’re trying to get rid of “Find My iPhone” or “Wallet,” you’re out of luck. These apps are part of the iOS ecosystem and are meant to stay put.
Another thing to keep in mind is that deleting an app doesn’t necessarily cancel any subscriptions you might have associated with it. If you’ve signed up for a service through an app and you delete the app without canceling the subscription, you could continue to be charged. Always check your subscriptions in the App Store before deleting an app to avoid unwanted charges.
Finally, if you’re worried about losing data when deleting an app, consider utilizing iCloud or another cloud service to back up important information. This way, even if you delete the app by mistake, you won’t lose any valuable data. Remember, staying organized and being mindful of your app usage can go a long way in enhancing your iPhone experience.
Summary
- Access the App Library
- Find the hidden app
- Long-press the app
- Tap “Delete App”
- Confirm the deletion
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I delete pre-installed Apple apps?
Some pre-installed apps can be deleted, but essential ones like “Settings,” “Phone,” and “Safari” cannot be removed from your iPhone.
What if I accidentally delete an app?
If you delete an app by accident, you can always re-download it from the App Store, provided it’s still available.
Will deleting an app cancel any subscriptions?
No, deleting an app does not cancel any subscriptions you have through that app. You must cancel them separately in the App Store.
Can I recover data from a deleted app?
If you haven’t backed up the data, it’s likely lost once the app is deleted. Always back up important data before deleting an app.
How do I find hidden apps I’ve forgotten about?
Scroll through the App Library or use the search bar to locate apps. If you still can’t find it, check your purchase history in the App Store.
Conclusion
Mastering the art of app management on your iPhone, particularly with iOS 17, is essential for a seamless mobile experience. Deleting hidden apps may seem like a small task, but it can have a significant impact on your device’s performance, storage space, and overall organization.
Always remember to back up important data before deleting apps and double-check for any active subscriptions. With these tips and insights, you’ll be well on your way to becoming an iPhone pro.
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.