Right-clicking is the standard way to uninstall or delete apps on a Chromebook. However, if your trackpad or mouse is broken, you may be wondering how to remove apps without using right-click. Thankfully, there are a few different methods to delete Chromebook apps, even if you can’t right-click.
Without the ability to right-click, deleting apps becomes trickier. But don’t worry, you still have options to remove apps without right-clicking. This guide will walk through several methods.
Table of Contents
How to Uninstall Apps via ChromeOS Settings
You can also uninstall apps through the Chrome OS settings menu:
- Click the time in the bottom-right corner (or open Launcher).
- Click the Settings icon (shaped like a gear).
- Select Apps from the left menu.
- Click Manage your apps.
- Find the app you want to remove.
- Click the app and select Uninstall.
This gives you another way to fully uninstall apps without right-clicking. The process is basically the same as doing it directly from the app.
How to Uninstall Apps With Touchscreen
If your Chromebook has a touchscreen, you can interact with it to uninstall apps. Here are the steps:
- Open the Launcher menu on the bottom left corner.
- Locate the app you want to uninstall.
- Tap and hold the app icon.
- Once the context menu appear, click Uninstall.
- Click Uninstall again to confirm.
This method gives you the option to uninstall apps on Chromebook without right-clicking.
Preinstalled Apps Cannot Be Deleted
Some apps like Files, Camera, and Chrome are preinstalled by default on all Chromebooks. You can remove these from the shelf, which disables them.
However, you cannot fully uninstall default Chrome OS apps. The “Uninstall” option will be greyed out for these apps or not available. If you want to re-enable a disabled default app later, go to the same Apps settings page and turn it back on.
Conclusion
While right-clicking is the easiest way to uninstall apps on a Chromebook, you have options if your mouse is broken. Removing the shortcut icon from the shelf disables but doesn’t delete the app. To fully uninstall, tap and hold the app icon, select “Uninstall” option from either the app itself or the ChromeOS settings.
FAQs
How do I delete an app shortcut from my Chromebook shelf?
You can remove app shortcuts from the shelf by clicking and dragging the icon off the shelf. This removes the shortcut but doesn’t uninstall the app itself.
Why can’t I uninstall some default Chromebook apps?
Certain preinstalled apps like Files, Camera, and Chrome cannot be fully uninstalled. You can only disable these apps by removing their shortcuts. But you’ll always have the option to re-enable them later in Settings.
Will uninstalling an app delete its data too?
Yes, uninstalling an app from your Chromebook will delete the app and all its locally stored data. You’ll have to reinstall it from scratch if you want to use it again.
