Android

Enable and disable Android system apps

If you don't want to use pre-installed system apps on your Android smartphone, you can simply deactivate them and reactivate them later.

Android: How to disable and enable system apps

All sorts of apps are pre-installed on your Android smartphone, but many of them you don't even need. System apps often cannot be deleted on Android, but they can be deactivated.

  1. Open the “Settings” app.
  2. Scroll down a bit and find the “Apps” menu item.
  3. You will now see a list of all your apps. Select a system app you want to disable by tapping its name.
  4. Tap “Deactivate” at the bottom and confirm the process.
  5. To reactivate switched off apps, swipe down to the bottom of the same menu and select “Activate”.

Changing system apps: This is what you need to pay attention to

If you disable a system app, you will receive a warning. There's a good reason for that.

  • Your system may become unstable if you disable a system app. To avoid data loss, you should never turn off necessary functions such as media storage, Android keyboard or Google services.
  • In order to deactivate system apps on your device, you need extended access rights on your smartphone or tablet for older cell phones up to Android 4.0. However, rooting may void any warranty claims.

About author

As a tech enthusiast and writer for votoh.com, I focus on providing practical solutions for common issues related to iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, Office, Smart TVs, software, games, and hardware. With a passion for simplifying technology, I aim to make complex topics accessible to everyone, offering tips and troubleshooting advice to help users navigate the digital world with ease.