Why Can’t I Delete Apps on My iPhone or iPad?

I tap the X icons to delete apps, but my iPhone or iPad won't let me delete them! It's a common problem, and it's often fixed with a very simple solution. We'll show you how to delete apps on an iPhone or iPad in this situation.

Jump to:

• How To Fix Issues with Deleting Apps on an iPhone or iPad
• How to Disable Content & Privacy Restrictions

How To Fix Issues with Deleting Apps on an iPhone or iPad

If you're here, you probably already know how to delete apps the standard way, but it's not working. There's an often-overlooked setting that may be to blame. Here's how to remove apps from an iPhone or iPad that won't let you delete apps:

1. Open the Settings app.
   
   
    
2. Scroll down and tap on Screen Time.
   
   
    
3. Tap on Content & Privacy Restrictions. You may be prompted to enter your Screen Time passcode.
   
   
    
4. Select iTunes & App Store Purchases.
   
   
    
5. Tap on Deleting Apps.
   
   
    
6. Tap on Allow.
   
   

You'll see a blue check mark appear next to Allow, and at this point you can leave the Settings app and try deleting apps again. It's a simple solution, but most of the time this is all it takes to fix the issue. Still having trouble? Try restarting your iPhone or iPad and give it another go. 

Related: How to Uninstall Apps on the iPhone from the App Store

How to Disable Content & Privacy Restrictions

Alternatively, you may not care to have any restrictions in place for content, in which case you can simply disable the feature altogether using the following steps:

1. Open the Settings app.
   
   
    
2. Scroll down and tap on Screen Time.
   
   
    
3. Tap on Content & Privacy Restrictions.
   
   
    
4. Tap the toggle next to Content & Privacy Restrictions.
   
   
    
5. When the Content & Privacy Restrictions feature is disabled, the toggle will be gray. 
   
   

These are two very simple ways to fix the common problem with not being allowed to delete apps. Now you should have the freedom to delete apps as you see fit! If you want to delete apps because you're worried about the data they are collecting on you, you can learn how to prevent apps from tracking you without having to delete them.