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How to Uninstall and Remove YouTube App From Android Devices

  • YouTube is a pre-installed app on most Android devices and cannot be fully uninstalled without rooting
  • However, you can disable or force stop the YouTube app to prevent it from running and taking up storage space
  • Clearing data and cache, uninstalling updates, and revoking admin privileges are other methods to remove YouTube’s footprint

YouTube is one of the most popular and widely used apps on Android devices. However, some users may want to uninstall or remove the YouTube app due to various reasons, such as freeing up storage space, avoiding distractions, or simply not needing the app. In this article, we’ll explore different methods to uninstall or remove the YouTube app from your Android device.

Disabling the YouTube App

Since YouTube is a pre-installed app on most Android devices, it cannot be fully uninstalled without rooting your device. However, you can disable the app, which will prevent it from running and taking up storage space. Here’s how to disable the YouTube app:

  1. Open the Settings app on your Android device.
  2. Tap on Apps or Application Manager.
  3. Find and select YouTube from the list of apps.
  4. Tap on Disable or Force Stop.
  5. Confirm the action when prompted.

After disabling the YouTube app, it will no longer appear in your app drawer or run in the background. However, the app files will still be present on your device, and you can re-enable it anytime from the same menu.

Clearing Data and Cache

Another way to remove the YouTube app’s footprint from your device is by clearing its data and cache. This method will not uninstall the app, but it will free up the storage space occupied by the app’s data and cache files. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Open the Settings app on your Android device.
  2. Tap on Apps or Application Manager.
  3. Find and select YouTube from the list of apps.
  4. Tap on Storage or Data.
  5. Tap on Clear Data and Clear Cache.

After clearing the data and cache, the YouTube app will be reset to its default state, and any downloaded videos, playlists, or settings will be removed.

Uninstalling Updates

If you’ve previously updated the YouTube app from the Google Play Store, you can uninstall those updates to revert the app to its factory version. This can help free up storage space and potentially resolve any issues caused by the updates. Here’s how to uninstall updates for the YouTube app:

  1. Open the Settings app on your Android device.
  2. Tap on Apps or Application Manager.
  3. Find and select YouTube from the list of apps.
  4. Tap on the three-dot menu icon in the top-right corner.
  5. Select Uninstall Updates.

After uninstalling the updates, the YouTube app will revert to its factory version, and any new features or bug fixes introduced in the updates will be removed.

Revoking Admin Privileges

Some apps require admin privileges to function properly, and revoking those privileges can sometimes help in uninstalling or disabling the app. Here’s how to revoke admin privileges for the YouTube app:

  1. Open the Settings app on your Android device.
  2. Tap on Security or Lock Screen and Security.
  3. Tap on Device Administrators or Device Admin Apps.
  4. Find and uncheck the box next to YouTube.
  5. Confirm the action when prompted.

After revoking admin privileges, you may be able to disable or uninstall the YouTube app more easily.

Using Third-Party Apps

If none of the above methods work for you, you can try using third-party apps designed to remove or disable pre-installed apps on Android devices. However, be cautious when using these apps, as they may require root access or perform system-level modifications, which could potentially cause issues or void your device’s warranty.

Some popular third-party apps for removing pre-installed apps include:

  • Universal Android Debloater
  • App Inspector
  • System App Remover

Always research and read reviews before using any third-party app, and proceed at your own risk.

FAQ

Q: Why can’t I uninstall the YouTube app from my Android device?

A: YouTube is a pre-installed app on most Android devices, and it’s considered a system app by Google. System apps cannot be fully uninstalled without rooting your device, as they are essential for the proper functioning of the operating system.

Q: Will disabling the YouTube app free up storage space?

A: Disabling the YouTube app will prevent it from running and taking up RAM, but it won’t free up significant storage space. To free up storage space, you’ll need to clear the app’s data and cache, or uninstall any updates.

Q: Can I re-enable the YouTube app after disabling it?

A: Yes, you can re-enable the YouTube app anytime by going to the Settings > Apps or Application Manager, finding the YouTube app, and tapping on Enable.

Q: Is it safe to use third-party apps to remove pre-installed apps?

A: Using third-party apps to remove pre-installed apps can be risky, as they may require root access or perform system-level modifications. It’s recommended to proceed with caution and research the app thoroughly before using it.

Q: Will uninstalling updates for the YouTube app affect my account or subscriptions?

A: Uninstalling updates for the YouTube app will not affect your account or subscriptions. However, you may lose access to some new features or bug fixes introduced in the updates.

By following the methods outlined in this article, you can effectively remove or disable the YouTube app from your Android device, freeing up storage space and potentially resolving any issues caused by the app. Remember to proceed with caution when using third-party apps or performing system-level modifications.

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