How to Disable Unwanted Apps and Bloatware on Your Android Device

Meta Description:
Learn how to freeze or disable unwanted apps and bloatware on your Android phone or tablet. Boost performance, save battery, and enjoy a cleaner device.

Introduction

When you buy a new Android phone or tablet, it often comes with apps you don’t need—commonly known as bloatware. These apps take up space, drain battery, and sometimes even run in the background without your permission.

The good news? You don’t always need to uninstall them. Instead, you can freeze or disable unwanted apps to keep your device fast and clutter-free. Here’s how to do it.

Why Freeze or Disable Bloatware?

• Improve performance: Fewer apps running in the background means a smoother experience.

• Save battery life: Disabled apps don’t consume extra power.

• Free up storage: Even if you can’t uninstall them, disabling stops updates from eating storage.

• Avoid clutter: Hide apps you never use from your app drawer.

Method 1: Disable Apps Through Settings

Most Android devices let you disable apps directly from settings.

1. Open Settings.

2. Go to Apps or Applications Manager.

3. Select the unwanted app.

4. Tap Disable.

👉 This removes the app from your app drawer and prevents it from running in the background.

Method 2: Use ADB (Advanced Method)

For apps that can’t be disabled through settings, you can use ADB (Android Debug Bridge).

Steps:

1. Enable Developer Options → Tap “Build Number” 7 times in Settings > About Phone.

2. Turn on USB Debugging.

3. Install ADB on your computer.

4. Connect your phone via USB.

5. Run the command:

   adb shell pm disable-user --user 0 packagename


   Replace packagename with the app’s actual package ID.

👉 This completely freezes the app without uninstalling it.

Method 3: Third-Party Apps

Some apps (like Ice Box, App Freezer, or Package Disabler) make freezing apps easier. But remember: many require root access or special permissions.

Which Apps Should You Not Disable?

⚠️ Be careful not to disable system-critical apps like Google Play Services, Phone, or Settings, as your device may stop functioning properly. Always double-check before freezing.

Conclusion

Disabling or freezing unwanted apps and bloatware is one of the easiest ways to make your Android phone or tablet run better. Whether you use the built-in settings, ADB commands, or third-party tools, you can enjoy a faster, cleaner, and more battery-efficient device without rooting or uninstalling important apps.