Published on Jun 25, 2025 4 min read

Safely Remove These Preinstalled Apps from Your iPhone

Your iPhone comes with a suite of built-in apps right out of the box. Some are useful, while others merely occupy space. You might wonder, “Can I delete these?” Fortunately, many preinstalled iPhone apps can be safely removed. Not everyone checks stock updates, listens to podcasts, or uses the Translate app regularly.

These apps clutter your screen and consume valuable storage. Since iOS 10, Apple has allowed users to remove several built-in apps, empowering you to customize your iPhone. This guide will help you clear your home screen and free up space. Let’s explore which preinstalled apps you can confidently remove.

Why Does Apple Include So Many Apps?

Apple aims to provide a comprehensive experience straight out of the box by preinstalling numerous apps on the iPhone. These apps cover areas like communication, entertainment, productivity, navigation, and device management. They ensure that the iPhone is fully operational from day one, even for those not technologically savvy. However, not every app suits every user.

Some might never track stocks, use the “Tips” app, or utilize Books. These apps can feel like clutter, especially if they occupy space or complicate finding the apps you actually use. Thankfully, beginning with iOS 10, Apple granted users more control. Like third-party apps, many built-in ones can be deleted, allowing iPhone users to personalize their devices for a more streamlined experience.

List of Preinstalled Apps You Can Safely Remove

Here is a list of preinstalled iPhone apps you can safely remove:

1. Stocks: Offers live stock prices and market trends. Delete it if you use other financial apps or lack interest in the market.
2. Tips: Guides users through iPhone features. Once you’re familiar with your device, it’s unnecessary.
3. Compass: Shows direction using your phone’s sensors. Useful for outdoor navigation but not essential for everyone.
4. Measure: Uses augmented reality to measure objects. Interesting but not particularly accurate or necessary.
5. Voice Memos: Records audio. If you prefer other apps for this purpose, feel free to delete it.
6. Apple TV: Central hub for movies and TV shows. Remove if you prefer other streaming services or don’t use these features.
7. News: Offers personalized feeds. If you use other news sources, you might not need it.
8. Books: Allows purchase and reading of eBooks or audiobooks. Delete if you use other reading apps.
9. Podcasts: Default podcast app. If you prefer Spotify or Pocket Casts, you can safely delete it.
10. Translate: Helps with language conversion. Remove if you use Google Translate or don’t require translation often.

How to Delete Preinstalled Apps

Deleting apps is simple:

1. Tap and hold the app icon until it jiggles.
2. Tap the “minus” (–) sign or “Remove App.”
3. Select “Delete App.”
4. Confirm the deletion.

That’s it! If you want the app back, you can always download it again from the App Store.

What Apps You Should Not Remove

Some preinstalled apps are essential, and removing them can cause issues:

• Settings – Crucial for managing your device.
• Phone – Necessary for making calls and SIM management.
• Messages – Required for texting and iMessage.
• Safari – While removable, most websites need a default browser.
• Camera – Important for taking photos quickly.
• App Store – Don’t delete it, or you won’t be able to reinstall other apps.

Benefits of Removing Unused Preinstalled Apps

Removing unused apps can significantly enhance your iPhone experience:

• Free Up Space: Gain more room for photos, videos, and important apps.
• Cleaner Home Screen: Easier to find the apps you use.
• Improved Navigation: Fewer apps mean faster navigation.
• Personalized Experience: Your iPhone should reflect your habits, not Apple’s defaults.
• Better Performance: Some unused apps run in the background, affecting battery life.

Conclusion

You don’t have to keep every app that comes with your iPhone. Many preinstalled apps can be deleted without affecting your device’s performance. Apps like Stocks, Tips, and Podcasts can be removed if they’re not used, helping you free up space and streamline your iPhone experience. Remember, you can always reinstall any app from the App Store if needed. Tailor your phone to fit your needs, not Apple’s defaults, and enjoy a more personalized user experience.