Do you often find yourself struggling with deleted apps still appearing on your Mac? It’s a common problem that many users face, and it can be frustrating to deal with. However, it’s essential to address this issue as it can not only consume unnecessary storage space but also cause confusion about which apps are installed and which are not. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the different ways to fix the problem of deleted apps still showing up on Mac.
Detailed Discussion on Deleted App Still Showing Up on Mac How to Fix
Clearing App Cache and Preferences
When you delete an app on Mac, it doesn’t always delete the app cache and preferences. So, deleting the app itself will not entirely remove all the data linked to it. That’s why several apps still appear on your Mac even after deleting them. Clearing the app cache and preferences can help fix this issue. Here’s how to do it:
1. Open Finder, and click on ‘Go’ from the menu bar.
2. Press the ‘Option’ key and click on ‘Library.’
3. Navigate to ‘Caches’ and delete the app’s cache folder.
4. Go to ‘Preferences’ and delete the app’s preference file.
After completing these steps, restart your Mac, and the deleted app should no longer show up on your device.
Removing App Residues using Third-Party App Uninstallers
Manually deleting the app cache and preferences can be time-consuming and confusing. Thankfully, there are several third-party app uninstallers available that can help you delete the app entirely, along with all its associated files. Here are some popular third-party app uninstallers:
1. AppCleaner – This is one of the most popular Mac apps used to uninstall apps and delete all associated files. To use it, drag the app’s icon to the AppCleaner window, review the list of files to remove, and delete them altogether.
2. CleanMyMac – This is another popular app that can help with Mac optimization. It can detect and remove all unwanted apps and their associated files while freeing up significant storage space.
3. AppTrap – This app runs in the background and automatically detects when you delete an app on your Mac, ensuring all data associated with it is entirely wiped.
Updating Mac Operating System
Sometimes, the issue of deleted apps still showing up on Mac can be related to the Mac operating system’s outdated version. Updating your Mac can help fix this issue. Here are the steps to update Mac:
1. Click on the ‘Apple’ menu and select ‘System Preferences.’
2. Click on ‘Software Update.’
3. If an update is available, click on ‘Update Now.’
4. Wait for the update to download and install.
5. Restart your Mac once the update is complete.
Resetting Launchpad to its Default State
Launchpad is a built-in feature in Mac that allows you to access and manage all the apps installed on your device. Sometimes, deleted apps may continue to appear on launchpad despite uninstalling them. Here’s how to reset Launchpad to its default state:
1. Open Terminal on your Mac. (You can find Terminal using Spotlight search).
2. Paste the following command: defaults write com.apple.dock ResetLaunchPad -bool true; killall Dock
3. Hit enter to execute the command.
4. Wait for the Launchpad to reset.
Concluding Thoughts on Deleted App Still Showing Up on Mac How to Fix
Deleting an app from your Mac doesn’t always mean it’s gone entirely. There can be associated files and data still hiding on your device, causing the app to continue showing up. Whether you choose to clear caches and preferences, use a third-party app uninstaller, update your Mac, or reset Launchpad, these methods should entirely remove the deleted app from your Mac. With the right approach, you can keep your Mac running efficiently and optimize storage space.
FAQs about Deleted App Still Showing Up on Mac How to Fix
1. Why are deleted apps still appearing on my Mac?
When you delete an app on Mac, it may leave behind associated files and data, causing the app to continue showing up. These files can include the app’s cache and preferences, which need to be cleared entirely for the app to be completely deleted.
2. Can I manually delete the app’s associated files?
Yes, you can manually delete the app’s associated files by clearing the app cache and preferences. However, third-party app uninstallers can be more reliable and time-saving.
3. Will deleting the app completely remove all the data associated with it?
Deleting the app entirely using third-party app uninstallers can remove all the data associated with it. However, manually deleting the app’s cache and preferences may not entirely remove all the data linked to it.
