Starter-Friendly Ideas On Learn How To Uninstall App In Macbook M1

Bill Simmon

2 min read

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05-02-2025

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So, you've got a shiny new Macbook M1 and some apps you're ready to say goodbye to? Uninstalling apps on a Mac might seem a little different than on Windows or your iPhone, but it's actually quite straightforward. This guide will give you several easy methods to uninstall apps from your Macbook M1, no matter your tech skill level. Let's dive in!

Method 1: The Drag-and-Drop Method (For Most Apps)

This is the simplest way to uninstall many apps on your Macbook M1. It's perfect for beginners and requires no special knowledge.

Here's how it works:

1. Locate the app: Find the app you want to remove in your Applications folder. This is usually found in your Finder's sidebar.
2. Drag and drop: Click and hold the app icon and drag it to the Trash icon in the Dock.
3. Empty the Trash: Once the app is in the Trash, you need to actually delete it. Right-click (or Control-click) the Trash icon and select "Empty Trash". This permanently removes the app and its files.

Important Note: This method removes the main application files. However, it might not remove all associated files, preferences, or support documents. For a more thorough cleanup, proceed to Method 2 or 3.

Method 2: Using Finder's "Go to Folder" (For More Control)

This method offers more precision, allowing you to manually locate and delete associated files. While slightly more advanced, it's still beginner-friendly.

Steps:

1. Open Finder: Click the Finder icon in your Dock.
2. Go to Folder: Press Command + Shift + G. A window will appear.
3. Enter Library Path: Type ~/Library and press Enter. This opens your Library folder, which contains many hidden application support files.
4. Locate App Files: Search within the Library folder (particularly in folders like Preferences, Caches, and Application Support) for files related to the app you're uninstalling. You can use the search bar within Finder to help.
5. Move to Trash: Once you've identified associated files, drag them to the Trash.
6. Empty the Trash: Remember to empty the Trash to completely delete the app and its related files.

Method 3: Using App Cleaner (For a Thorough Uninstall)

For a truly comprehensive uninstall, consider using a dedicated uninstaller app like AppCleaner. These tools scan for and remove all associated files, ensuring a clean removal. Many free options are available.

General Process (specific steps may vary depending on the app):

1. Download and Install: Download and install your chosen app cleaner utility.
2. Select the App: Open the app cleaner and select the app you wish to remove.
3. Scan and Remove: The app cleaner will scan for all related files and allow you to delete them with a single click.
4. Empty the Trash: Don't forget to empty your Trash!

Troubleshooting Tips:

• App Still Runs After Uninstall? If the application remains active in your Dock or menu bar, you may need to force quit it by using the Activity Monitor (found in Applications/Utilities).
• Can't Find the App? Double-check the spelling of the app's name, or search within the Finder using its name.

By following these simple steps, you'll be able to uninstall apps from your Macbook M1 with ease. Choose the method that best suits your comfort level and enjoy a cleaner, more organized system! Remember to always back up your important data before making significant changes to your system.