app removal Archives

Winsage

November 26, 2025

Microsoft Store Will Soon Let You Uninstall Apps Directly From the Library

Microsoft is testing an update for the Microsoft Store on Windows 11 that allows users to uninstall Store-managed applications directly from the Store’s library page. This feature is available to Windows Insiders using Microsoft Store version 22510.1401.x.x and higher. Previously, users had to navigate to the Settings app to uninstall apps. The update introduces a native uninstall button, simplifying the process and improving user experience. Additionally, Microsoft has eliminated its developer registration fee earlier this year, further streamlining app management.

AppWizard

November 11, 2025

You can now remotely uninstall Android apps from any of your phones

Google has added a new 'Uninstall' button to the Play Store, allowing users to remove applications from any Android device linked to their account without needing physical access to those devices. This feature is available in Play Store version 48.8 and is being gradually rolled out. The uninstall shortcut is located on individual app pages, and users can also uninstall apps remotely through the Manage apps & devices section. However, it is unclear how this feature will work on offline devices. The update simplifies app management for users with multiple Android devices, enhances device hygiene and security, and allows for the remote removal of apps in cases where a device is sold or stolen. Users can check for the update by navigating to Play Store > Profile > Settings > About > Update Play Store.

AppWizard

October 4, 2025

Apple removes ICEBlock app after criticism from Trump administration

Apple removed the ICEBlock app from its App Store due to safety concerns raised by ICE's leadership and law enforcement about potential risks associated with the app. The app, which allowed users to report sightings of ICE agents, gained popularity after its launch in April and had over 1 million downloads. The removal was influenced by a request from the Department of Justice, with Attorney General Pamela Bondi stating that the app endangered ICE agents. Following a shooting incident at a Dallas ICE facility, criticism of ICEBlock intensified. Google also removed similar applications from its Android platform, although ICEBlock was never available there.

AppWizard

October 3, 2025

Google pulls ICE alert app Red Dot from Play Store, citing policy violations

The Red Dot app, which notifies users of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity, has been removed from the Google Play Store due to violations of Google's policies on user safety and content moderation. Google stated that the app did not meet the required moderation processes for user-generated content. The company also indicated that it had not received any communication from the Department of Justice about the app prior to its removal. Red Dot claims to be a safety tool that aggregates reports of ICE activity but has not responded to inquiries regarding its removal.

AppWizard

May 2, 2025

Google Play Store just lost a ton of apps, but this is actually a good thing

The Google Play Store has seen a decline in available apps from 3.4 million to approximately 1.8 million since the beginning of 2024, representing a loss of nearly 47%. The "games" category lost 200,000 apps, the education sector lost around 160,700 apps, and the business category saw a reduction of 115,400 apps. This removal is part of Google's effort to combat ad fraud, particularly from "vapor apps" that misled users and generated recurring advertisements. Over 56 million downloads were affected across 180 apps. Google has implemented new policies for tracking and removing spammy applications, including expanded verification requirements, mandatory app testing, and enhanced human reviews.

AppWizard

April 30, 2025

Google’s Play Store App Deletion—What You Do Now On Your Phone

Google's Play Store has undergone a significant overhaul, resulting in a reduction of apps from approximately 3.4 million to around 1.8 million, a decline of nearly 47% since the beginning of 2024. This change was prompted by an increase in threats to mobile devices and stricter criteria for app inclusion and retention. Google is targeting the removal of static apps without specific functionalities, apps with minimal content, and applications that lack functional value. Removed apps will no longer be available for download, but users with the app already installed can continue to use it without updates. If uninstalled, users cannot redownload the app unless republished by the developer. Users are advised to manage their app collections to mitigate risks associated with low-quality apps. Subscriptions linked to removed apps will also be terminated.

AppWizard

April 10, 2025

How Gaming Is Regulated On Android’s App Store

The Google Play Store offers millions of mobile games and enforces strict regulations to ensure user safety and legal compliance. These regulations cover content policies, monetization practices, data protection, technical requirements, and regional compliance. Games must adhere to content policies that prohibit hate speech, excessive violence, and misrepresentation, and must be rated by the International Age Rating Coalition (IARC). Monetization strategies require developers to use Google’s payment system for in-app purchases and disclose pricing and refund policies. Gambling games must have the necessary licenses and disclose odds for loot boxes. Data privacy guidelines mandate clear communication about data collection and user consent. Technical standards require games to function well across devices and be free from security threats. Google employs automated and manual reviews to enforce compliance, with consequences for violations ranging from warnings to permanent bans. Regional compliance is necessary, particularly in areas with strict regulations like China and the EU.

AppWizard

October 7, 2024

Google officially kicks Kaspersky antivirus software app off the Play Store

Kaspersky's official Android app was removed from the Google Play Store, and its developer accounts were disabled, following sanctions imposed by the US government. Kaspersky is investigating the unavailability of its software and has provided alternative download options through other app stores and its official website. The US government has raised concerns about Kaspersky's software potentially being exploited by the Russian government, leading to a ban on the sale of its products effective July 20, 2024. Kaspersky was placed on the US Entity List, and updates to its software were halted as of September 29. The company is offering free security products and safety tips for six months to mitigate customer impact. In September 2024, US customers reported that their antivirus software was replaced with a new solution named UltraAV.

AppWizard

July 28, 2024

Google to delete a wide range of apps in huge cull

Google plans to remove low-quality applications from the Google Play Store by August 31, 2024, as part of its updated spam and minimum functionality policy. Apps must demonstrate adequate utility and engaging content; those that crash frequently, lack essential features, or offer minimal content will be removed. This includes static apps with only text or PDF files, applications with very limited content, and apps without a clear purpose. Google will also remove apps with broken functionality that crash or operate abnormally. The changes will not affect apps already downloaded by users. The Google Play Store currently has approximately 3.3 million applications.

AppWizard

July 19, 2024

Google Play Store May Delete Tons of Android Apps Next Month

Google Play Store will remove thousands of apps next month that do not work or have no function, as part of an update to its app store policies.