When you exhaust the available storage space on your Amazon Firestick, you may need to delete some unused apps if you don’t want to encounter issues like slower performance and reduced functionality.
Fortunately, managing your Firestick’s app library is simple, and deleting unwanted apps can help you, optimize performance, or make room for new apps. Let’s guide you through the process.
Delete Firestick Apps Via the Settings Menu
1. From your Firestick home screen, locate and select the gear-shaped icon in the far -right navigation bar to access the Settings menu.
2. In the Settings menu, scroll to and select the “Applications” option. This section allows you to manage all installed apps on your device.
3. Within the Applications menu, choose “Manage Installed Applications.” This displays a list of all apps installed on your Firestick, sorted alphabetically.
4. Scroll through the list and select the app you wish to delete. Clicking on the app will open its details page.
5. On the app’s details page, select “Uninstall.” A confirmation prompt will appear asking if you’re sure about uninstalling the app.
6. Confirm by selecting “Uninstall” again, and after a few seconds, the app will be removed from your device.
This method is ideal for freeing up storage space and decluttering your Firestick interface. Note that some pre-installed apps may not have an uninstall option due to system restrictions.
Delete Firestick Apps Via the Apps Menu
Follow these steps to remove apps using the Apps menu:
1. On your Firestick remote, press and hold the Home button until a menu appears. From the options displayed, select Apps to open the “Your Apps & Games” page.
2. Scroll through the list of installed apps and highlight the app you want to remove.
3. While the app is highlighted, press the Menu button (the button with three horizontal lines) on your remote.
4. A menu will appear on the right-hand side of your screen.
5. In the options menu, choose Uninstall.
6. A confirmation prompt will appear asking if you’re sure you want to uninstall the app. Select Uninstall again in the prompt, and after a few seconds, the app will be removed from your device.
How to Hide an App on Amazon Firestick
If you want to declutter your home screen or keep certain apps out of sight without uninstalling them, hiding the app is the best option.
1. From the Firestick home screen, scroll through your apps and highlight the app you wish to hide.
2. Press the Menu button (the button with three horizontal lines) on your Firestick remote. This will open a menu on the right-hand side of your screen.
3. In the options menu, select Hide from Your Apps by pressing the center button on your remote.
4. The app will now be removed from both the home screen and the “Your Apps & Games” section.
Tips for Managing Storage on Firestick
Check Available Storage Regularly
Monitoring your Firestick’s storage is the first step in managing it effectively. To check available space:
Navigate to Settings > My Fire TV > About > Storage.
This will display the remaining storage, helping you identify when action is needed. Ideally, aim to keep at least 1.5GB of free space for smooth performance.
Clear Cache Files
Apps on your Firestick accumulate cache over time, which can consume significant storage. To clear cache:
- Go to Settings > Applications > Manage Installed Applications.
- Select an app and click Clear Cache.
Clearing cache files regularly can reclaim storage without uninstalling apps.
Optimize App Settings
Many apps allow users to adjust settings that impact storage usage:
- Lower video download quality in streaming apps.
- Disable automatic downloads or offline content features if not needed16.
Manage Media Files
Downloaded media files such as videos, music, or photos can quickly fill up your Firestick’s storage:
- Navigate to Settings > Applications > Manage Installed Applications.
- Review media apps and delete unnecessary files stored within them.
Utilize External Storage
Expand your Firestick’s capacity by connecting external storage devices like USB drives or microSD cards:
- Format the external device to FAT32 before connecting it.
- Use the external storage for saving apps and media files.
This is particularly useful for users who frequently download large files or install multiple apps.
Leverage Cloud Storage
Cloud solutions like Amazon Drive, Dropbox, or Google Drive can help store files externally while keeping them accessible:
Install cloud storage apps from the Amazon Appstore and transfer large files off your device.
By implementing these tips, you can efficiently manage your Firestick’s storage, ensuring optimal performance and a seamless entertainment experience.