Windows 8.1 is a versatile operating system with a unique feature of apps. These apps are designed to provide users with a better user experience. However, over time, some apps may outlive their usefulness, or may need to be removed for some reason or the other. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through different methods to remove apps from Windows 8.1.
Video Tutorial:
What’s Needed
Before removing any apps from Windows 8.1, make sure you have the following:
- A Windows 8.1 computer
- The app that you want to remove
What Requires Your Focus?
Removing apps from Windows 8.1 can be a straightforward process. However, it is essential to be attentive to the type of app you wish to remove and the reasons behind the removal. Take time to consider whether you still need the app, its function, and the impact of its removal on your computer and other applications.
Different Methods to Remove Apps from Windows 8.1
There are several methods to remove apps from Windows 8.1.
Method 1: Via Start Menu
Step 1. Go to the Start menu and find the app that you want to remove.
Step 2. Right-click on the app icon.
Step 3. Click on Uninstall.
Pros:
– Easy to perform.
– Does not require third-party tools.
Cons:
– Only works for Modern UI apps
Method 2: Via Control Panel
Step 1. Go to the Control Panel.
Step 2. Click on Programs and Features.
Step 3. Find the app you want to remove and click on it.
Step 4. Click on Uninstall.
Pros:
– Works for both Modern UI and Desktop apps.
Cons:
– May leave behind components that need to be removed manually.
Method 3: Via PowerShell
Step 1. Press the "Windows key + X" to access the Power User menu.
Step 2. Click on Windows PowerShell (Admin).
Step 3. Type the following command: get-appxpackage *name of app* | remove-appxpackage.
Step 4. Hit Enter.
Pros:
– Works for Modern UI apps.
Cons:
– Requires knowledge of PowerShell commands.
Why Can’t I Remove Some Apps On My Windows 8.1?
- Most pre-installed apps such as Music, Video, and Xbox cannot be removed.
- Some apps are essential to the functioning of Windows and cannot be removed. Removing such apps may cause other apps to stop working.
- Some applications, particularly those from third-party developers, may require additional software components to be removed entirely.
Implications and Recommendations
Removing apps from Windows 8.1 can help improve the overall performance of your computer by freeing up disk space and reducing resource usage. However, removing essential apps or components may cause errors and affect the performance of other apps. Therefore, it is essential to exercise caution and evaluate the impact of the app removal before proceeding.
5 FAQs about Removing Apps from Windows 8.1
Q1. What is the difference between Modern UI apps and Desktop apps?
A1. Modern UI apps are adaptively designed apps that run full screen on Windows 8.1, while Desktop apps are traditional applications that run on the desktop environment.
Q2. Can I reinstall an app I’ve removed from Windows 8.1?
A2. Yes, you can reinstall apps removed from Windows 8.1 by going to the Windows Store and downloading them again.
Q3. Can I remove pre-installed Windows 8.1 apps from my computer?
A3. Some pre-installed apps cannot be removed, but some can, depending on their functionalities.
Q4. Can I remove Windows 8.1 apps’ registry entries manually?
A4. Modifying the registry manually is not recommended, as it may cause unintended consequences and make the system unstable.
Q5. Can I remove multiple Windows 8.1 apps simultaneously?
A5. Yes, you can remove multiple apps simultaneously by selecting the apps and clicking on the uninstall button.
In Conclusion
Removing apps from Windows 8.1 can help improve the overall performance of your computer and free up disk space. You can use different methods like Via Start Menu, Via Control Panel, or Via PowerShell. However, be cautious while removing apps as uninstalling essential apps can cause other apps to stop working or create unexpected errors. When in doubt, seek professional help to remove the apps safely.
