10 Simple Steps to Remove Apps from Your Roku Device

Roku remote and TV screen

In the realm of streaming entertainment, Roku stands as a formidable challenger, offering a vast and ever-expanding library of content. With its intuitive interface, users can seamlessly navigate through a plethora of channels, movies, and TV shows. However, as your Roku device accumulates an arsenal of applications, navigating its interface can become cluttered and overwhelming. If you find yourself in this predicament, fret not! This comprehensive guide will unveil the secrets to removing apps from your Roku, empowering you to declutter your streaming experience and reclaim control over your entertainment hub.

Before embarking on this app-removal odyssey, it is imperative to understand the two distinct categories of applications that reside within your Roku’s ecosystem: channel apps and standalone apps. Channel apps are essentially extensions of the Roku Channel Store, providing access to a specific channel’s content. Standalone apps, on the other hand, are self-contained entities that function independently of the Roku Channel Store. Understanding this distinction is crucial as the removal process varies depending on the app type. Regardless of the app’s nature, this guide will meticulously guide you through both removal methods, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience.

Delving into the practicalities of app removal, let us first address the straightforward process of eliminating channel apps. With a few simple clicks, you can bid farewell to unwanted channels. Navigate to the Home screen, scroll to the channel you wish to remove, and press the asterisk (*) button on your Roku remote. A menu will promptly appear, presenting you with the option to “Remove channel.” Confirm your selection, and the channel will vanish into the digital ether, freeing up valuable space on your Roku’s interface. Alternatively, if you prefer a more comprehensive approach, you can access the “Manage channels” option within the Settings menu. Here, you will find a complete list of installed channels, allowing you to select and remove multiple channels in one fell swoop.

Deleting Apps through the Roku Settings Menu

1. Navigate to the Roku Home screen and select the “Settings” option.
2. Scroll down to the “System” menu and select it.
3. Under the “System” menu, select the “Storage & Reset” option.
4. On the “Storage & Reset” screen, select the “Manage applications” option.
5. A list of all the installed apps will be displayed.
6. Select the app you want to delete.
7. On the app’s settings page, select the “Uninstall” option.
8. Confirm your choice by selecting the “OK” button.

Other Methods to Remove Apps

**From the Roku Channel Store:**
1. Launch the Roku Channel Store from the Home screen.
2. Select the “My Channels” option.
3. Find the app you want to remove and select it.
4. On the app’s details page, select the “Remove Channel” option.
5. Confirm your choice by selecting the “OK” button.

**From the Roku Mobile App**:
1. Install the Roku mobile app on your smartphone or tablet.
2. Ensure that your Roku device and mobile device are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
3. Open the Roku app and tap on the “Devices” tab.
4. Select your Roku device from the list.
5. Tap on the “Manage Channels” option.
6. Find the app you want to remove and tap on it.
7. Tap on the “Remove Channel” option.
8. Confirm your choice by tapping on the “OK” button.

Viewing Storage Usage

To view how much storage space each app is using, follow these steps:

Step Description
1 Navigate to the Storage & Reset menu as described above.
2 Select the “View storage usage” option.
3 A list of all installed apps will be displayed, along with the amount of storage space they are using.

Removing Apps Using Roku Remote Shortcuts

Utilizing the Roku remote, you can swiftly remove unwanted apps with a few simple button combinations. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  1. Navigate to the App: Use the directional buttons on your Roku remote to highlight the app you want to remove on the home screen.
  2. Hold the “*” Button: Press and hold the asterisk (*) button on your Roku remote for a few seconds until a menu appears.
  3. Select “Remove Channel”: In the menu that appears, use the directional buttons to select “Remove Channel” and press the “OK” button on your remote.

    Detailed Explanation of “Remove Channel” Option:

    Option Description
    Remove Channel Removes the selected app from your Roku device without affecting any of its data or settings.
    Remove Channel and Data Removes the selected app and all its associated data, including user accounts, preferences, and saved content.

    Depending on the app, you may be prompted to confirm your decision before the removal process begins.

  4. Confirm Removal: Follow the on-screen prompts to confirm that you want to remove the app. Your Roku device will then proceed to remove the app from its system.
  5. Completion: Once the removal process is complete, the app will no longer be available on your Roku device.
  6. Uninstalling Apps on Roku Devices without a Remote

    Using the Roku Mobile App

    If you have the Roku mobile app installed on your phone or tablet, you can use it to uninstall apps from your Roku device remotely. Here’s how:

    1. Open the Roku mobile app and log in.
    2. Tap the “Devices” tab.
    3. Select your Roku device.
    4. Scroll down and tap the “Manage apps” option.
    5. Find the app you want to uninstall and tap the “Uninstall” button.

    Using the Roku Website

    You can also uninstall apps from your Roku device using the Roku website. Here’s how:

    1. Go to the Roku website (https://my.roku.com) and log in.
    2. Click on the “My Account” tab.
    3. Click on the “Manage devices” link.
    4. Select your Roku device.
    5. Scroll down and click on the “Manage apps” link.
    6. Find the app you want to uninstall and click the “Uninstall” button.

    Using the Roku Remote Control App

    If you have the Roku remote control app installed on your phone or tablet, you can use it to uninstall apps from your Roku device. Here’s how:

    1. Open the Roku remote control app and connect to your Roku device.
    2. Scroll down and select the “Apps” option.
    3. Find the app you want to uninstall and press the “OK” button.
    4. Scroll down and select the “Uninstall” option.
    5. Press the “OK” button to confirm the uninstallation.

    Resetting the Roku to Remove All Apps

    Resetting your Roku to its factory default settings is a quick and effective way to remove all apps, including malware or unwanted apps.

    Before You Reset

    Before resetting, ensure you have the following:

    • Your Roku remote
    • Your Roku account details (email address and password)
    • Any required login information for streaming apps

    Steps to Reset Your Roku

    1. Access the Roku Settings Menu: Press the Home button on your Roku remote and navigate to Settings.
    2. Select System: Scroll down and select System from the left-hand menu.
    3. Choose Advanced System Settings: Click on Advanced System Settings.
    4. Select Factory Reset: Scroll down and select Factory Reset.
    5. Confirm the Reset: A series of on-screen prompts will appear. Enter your Roku account password and then follow the instructions to confirm the reset.

    Additional Details for the Last Step: Confirming the Reset

    The final step, confirming the reset, requires careful attention to ensure a successful reset:

    • Enter Roku Account Password: When prompted, enter the password associated with your Roku account. This will prevent unauthorized access to your Roku device.
    • Read the Warning Message: Before proceeding, carefully read the warning message that appears on the screen. It will inform you about the consequences of resetting your Roku.
    • Confirm Your Decision: Once you have understood the warning message, select the "Reset" or "Factory Reset" option to proceed with the reset.
    • Wait for the Reset Process: The Roku device will restart and go through the reset process. This may take several minutes to complete.
    • Re-configure Your Roku: After the reset, you will need to reconfigure your Roku device, including setting up your network, adding streaming apps, and signing into your accounts.

    Uninstalling Apps Remotely Using the Roku App

    Follow these steps to uninstall apps remotely using the Roku app:

    1. Open the Roku App

    Download and install the Roku app on your smartphone or tablet.

    2. Sign In

    Log in to your Roku account using the same credentials you use on your Roku device.

    3. Select Your Device

    Tap on the “Devices” tab and select the Roku device you want to manage.

    4. Go to the App Settings

    Click on the “Apps” option and then select “Manage Apps.”

    5. Find the App to Uninstall

    Scroll through the list of installed apps and locate the one you want to remove.

    6. Uninstall the App

    Tap on the “Uninstall” button next to the app. Confirm your choice by clicking on “OK” in the pop-up window. Here are the detailed steps for uninstalling apps using the Roku app:

    Step Description
    1. On your smartphone or tablet, open the Roku app.
    2. Tap on the “Devices” tab and select the Roku device you want to manage.
    3. Click on the “Apps” option and then select “Manage Apps.”
    4. Scroll through the list of installed apps and locate the one you want to remove.
    5. Tap on the “Uninstall” button next to the app.
    6. Confirm your choice by clicking on “OK” in the pop-up window.

    Deleting Apps from Specific Accounts

    If your Roku account is associated with multiple users, you may wish to remove apps from specific accounts. This can be useful for controlling access to certain apps or for managing storage space. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to delete apps from specific accounts:

    1. Press the Home button on your Roku remote.
    2. Scroll to and select Settings.
    3. Select Accounts.
    4. Select the account from which you want to delete apps.
    5. Select Manage Apps.
    6. Select the app you want to delete.
    7. Select Remove App.
    Roku Account App Removal Guide
    Step Action
    1 Press Home Button
    2 Select Settings
    3 Select Accounts
    4 Choose Account
    5 Select Manage Apps
    6 Select App to Remove
    7 Click Remove App

    Managing Apps on Multiple Roku Devices

    Managing apps on multiple Roku devices can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. With a few simple steps, you can easily keep your Roku devices organized and running smoothly.

    Adding Apps to Multiple Roku Devices

    1. Select “Add Channel” from the Roku home screen.
    2. Search for the app you want to add.
    3. Select “Add Channel” from the app’s search results.

    Removing Apps from Multiple Roku Devices

    1. Select “Settings” from the Roku home screen.
    2. Select “System” from the Settings menu.
    3. Select “Storage” from the System menu.
    4. Select “Manage Channel Storage.”

    Reordering Apps on Multiple Roku Devices

    1. Press the Home button on your Roku remote.
    2. Select “My Channels” from the home screen.
    3. Highlight the app you want to move.
    4. Press and hold the * button on your remote.
    5. Select “Move Channel” from the options menu.
    6. Use the arrow keys on your remote to move the app to the desired location.
    7. Press the * button again to save your changes.

    Managing App Notifications on Multiple Roku Devices

    1. Select “Settings” from the Roku home screen.
    2. Select “Notifications” from the Settings menu.
    3. Select the app you want to manage notifications for.
    4. Toggle the “Notifications” switch to turn notifications on or off.

    Managing App Updates on Multiple Roku Devices

    1. Select “Settings” from the Roku home screen.
    2. Select “System” from the Settings menu.
    3. Select “Software Update” from the System menu.
    4. Select “Check Now” to check for app updates.
    5. If there are any updates available, follow the on-screen instructions to install them.

    Managing App Data and Cache on Multiple Roku Devices

    1. Select “Settings” from the Roku home screen.
    2. Select “System” from the Settings menu.
    3. Select “Storage” from the System menu.
    4. Select “Manage Channel Storage.”

    5. Select the app you want to manage data and cache for.
    6. Select “Clear Data” or “Clear Cache” from the options menu.
    7. Confirm that you want to clear the data or cache.

    Uninstalling Apps from Multiple Roku Devices

  7. Press the Home button on your Roku remote.
  8. Navigate to the app you want to uninstall.
  9. Press and hold the * button on your remote.
  10. Select “Remove Channel” from the options menu.
  11. Confirm that you want to remove the app.
  12. Press the Home button on your Roku remote.
  13. Navigate to the app you want to uninstall.
  14. Press the Options button on your remote.
  15. Select “Remove Channel” from the options menu.
  16. Confirm that you want to remove the app.
  17. Platform Instructions
    Roku TV
    Roku Streaming Player

    Troubleshooting App Removal Issues

    If you encounter any issues while attempting to remove an app from your Roku device, consider the following troubleshooting tips:

    1. Ensure Proper App Selection

    Verify that the app you are attempting to remove has been selected correctly. Confirm it is not a different app with a similar name.

    2. Check Internet Connectivity

    Make sure your Roku device is connected to a stable internet network. A reliable connection is necessary for app removal.

    3. Restart Your Roku Device

    A simple restart of your Roku device can often resolve minor app removal issues. Unplug the device for 10 seconds, then reconnect it.

    4. Check for Updates

    Ensure your Roku device is running the latest software version. Updates may address specific app removal problems.

    5. Factory Reset Your Roku Device

    If other troubleshooting methods fail, consider performing a factory reset on your Roku device. This will erase all data and restore it to factory settings.

    6. Troubleshoot Using the Roku Help Center

    Visit the Roku Help Center for additional support options, including access to troubleshooting tools and live chat assistance.

    7. Contact Roku Support

    If you are unable to resolve the app removal issue independently, contact Roku customer support for further assistance.

    8. Check for Insufficient Storage Space

    Ensure your Roku device has sufficient storage space to complete the app removal process. If the device is low on storage, try removing other apps or clearing the cache.

    9. Troubleshooting Specific App Removal Issues

    Some apps may encounter specific issues during removal. Here’s a table of common problems and their solutions:

    Issue Solution
    App Not Listed in Settings The app may be hidden in the “Hidden Channels” section. Unhide it from there.
    App Removal Button Disabled The app may be a system app that cannot be removed.
    Error Message During App Removal Contact Roku support or the app developer for assistance.

    How to Remove App from Roku

    To remove an app from your Roku device:

    1. Press the Home button on your Roku remote.
    2. Select the app you want to remove.
    3. Press the * button on your remote.
    4. Select “Remove channel.”
    5. Confirm that you want to remove the app.

    Best Practices for App Management on Roku

    1. Regularly Review and Remove Unused Apps

    To maintain peak performance on your Roku, it’s wise to periodically review installed apps and remove any unutilized ones. Excess apps can strain system resources and lead to potential issues.

    Take the following steps to conduct a thorough app review:

    • Go to “Home” on your Roku device.
    • Select “Settings” from the left-hand menu.
    • Choose “Apps” followed by “Manage Installed Channels.”
    • Identify and select apps you no longer use.
    • Select “Remove channel” to remove the app.

    2. Keep Roku Software Up-to-Date

    Regular software updates for your Roku device are crucial for stability, performance optimizations, and security enhancements. Ensuring your Roku runs on the latest software version guarantees smoother operation and access to new features. Check for updates manually or enable automatic updates in the device settings.

    3. Utilize the “Add Channels” Feature

    For easy and efficient app addition, use the “Add Channels” feature. This built-in search functionality allows you to browse the Roku Channel Store and directly install apps that align with your interests. Simply navigate to the “Add Channels” option on your Roku home screen, enter the name of the app you’re seeking, and select “Install.”

    4. Manage Automatic App Updates

    Configure automatic updates for your Roku apps to ensure they stay current and receive the latest enhancements and security patches. To configure this setting, go to “Settings,” select “System,” and then “Software update.” Choose “Auto-update apps” to enable automatic updates.

    5. Reset Roku Device to Factory Settings

    As a last resort, you can perform a factory reset to restore your Roku device to its original settings, effectively removing all installed apps and data. This action is particularly useful when encountering persistent problems or when preparing your device for sale or transfer.

    Option Result
    Highlight a channel Bottom bar appears with options for that channel
    Option button Bottom bar appears with options for that channel
    Move button Move the channel to a different location
    Star button Add or remove the channel from favorites

    How To Remove App From Roku

    Roku devices offer a vast selection of streaming apps, but there may come a time when you want to remove an app you no longer use. Removing an app from Roku is a simple process that can be completed in a few steps. Here’s how to do it:

    1. Press the Home button on your Roku remote.
    2. Navigate to the app you want to remove and highlight it.
    3. Press the * button on your remote to open the options menu.
    4. Select “Remove channel” and confirm your selection.

    The app will be removed from your Roku device. If you change your mind later, you can always re-add the app from the Roku Channel Store.

    People Also Ask

    How do I remove an app from Roku without a remote?

    You can remove an app from Roku without a remote using the Roku mobile app. To do this, follow these steps:

    1. Download the Roku mobile app on your smartphone or tablet.
    2. Connect your Roku device and mobile device to the same Wi-Fi network.
    3. Open the Roku mobile app and tap on the “Devices” tab.
    4. Select your Roku device and tap on the “Manage apps” option.
    5. Find the app you want to remove and tap on the “Remove” button.

    Can I remove pre-installed apps from Roku?

    Not all pre-installed apps can be removed from Roku.

    However, there are some pre-installed apps that you can remove, such as:

    • Crackle
    • Pluto TV
    • Tubi
    • Xumo

    To remove a pre-installed app that you can remove, follow the steps outlined in the “How To Remove App From Roku” section above.