While the problem of being unable to Delete Apps can occur on any iPhone or iPad, it is more common in 3D-Touch enabled models of iPhone.
On 3D-Touch enabled models of iPhone (6S and above), pressing and holding on the App Icon activates 3D Touch Menu, instead of bringing up the “X” button (delete option) next to the Apps.
In certain cases, users have also reported seeing duplicate App icons, one of which could be deleted as usual while the second App icon could not be deleted.
Can’t Delete Apps on iPhone
If you Can’t delete Apps on iPhone or iPad, you can find below the steps to fix the problem of Apps not deleting on iPhone and iPad.
1. Tap Gently on the Screen
As mentioned above, pressing and holding on the App Icon activates 3D Touch Menu, instead of bringing up the “X” button (delete option) next to the Apps.
A simple solution to this problem is to gently Tap and Hold on the App icon for about 2 to 3 seconds and this will bring up the “X” icon next to the App, allowing you to delete the App.
Once you are done with deleting the App, press on the Home button to return back to the normal Home screen.
2. Restart iPhone
The next solution that can help with the issue of “X” icon (Delete option) not appearing next to the Apps is to Restart your device.
1. Go to Settings > General > scroll down tap on Shut Down.
2. On the next screen, use the slider to Power OFF your device.
3. Allow iPhone to completely power off > Wait for 30 seconds and Restart iPhone.
Once iPhone re-starts, you should be able to delete Apps on your device.
3. Disable Restrictions
If you are still unable to delete Apps, the problem might be due deletion of Apps being restricted on your device.
You may have placed restriction on deleting Apps accidentally or as a protective measure to prevent children from accidentally deleting Apps from your device.
1. Go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions.
2. From the next screen, go to iTunes & App Store Purchases > tap on Installing Apps.
3. On Installing Apps screen, select the Allow option to enable Installing of Apps on your device.
After this, you should be able to delete Apps without any problems on your iPhone.
Some Apps Cannot Be Deleted
In case you are not aware, certain native iPhone Apps that are directly built into the iOS operating system cannot be deleted, as they are designed to be part of the overall iOS experience.
The “X” Icon delete option will not appear next to the Native iPhone, even if you try to press and hold on these native Apps.
Some of the Native Apps which cannot be removed from iPhone are Notes, Messages, Settings, Safari, Camera, Photos, App Store, Wallet and Find My iPhone.