The fastest way to delete an app

To remove an app from your Apple TV, press and hold the app icon on the home screen until a menu appears, then select Remove and confirm. The app disappears when ready. If you change your mind, you can reinstall it later from the App Store at no cost.

This method works on all Apple TV models running tvOS 11 or later. The app is completely deleted from your device, though your account data and purchase history remain tied to your Apple ID, so reinstalling is straightforward.

Key Takeaways

  • Press and hold any app icon on the home screen until a menu appears, then tap Remove to delete it.
  • Deleting an app does not erase your account data or purchase history — you can reinstall it anytime without paying again.
  • You can also manage apps through Settings > Apps > Manage Apps if you prefer not to use the home screen menu.
  • Removing an app frees up storage space on your Apple TV, which can improve performance if your device is running low on room.

Using the Settings menu instead

If the press-and-hold method does not work or you prefer a different route, go to Settings on your Apple TV home screen, then navigate to Apps and select Manage Apps. Scroll through the list, highlight the app you want to remove, and press the select button on your remote.

A menu will appear with the option to Remove. Select it and confirm. This method takes a few more steps but works the same way as the home screen approach and results in the same outcome — the app is deleted and storage is freed.

What happens to your data when you delete an app

When you remove an app, the app itself and any files it stored locally on your Apple TV are deleted. However, your account information, subscriptions, and purchase history tied to that app remain linked to your Apple ID in the cloud.

If you reinstall the app later, you will often find your account still logged in and your saved data restored, depending on how the app developer designed their backup system. Streaming apps like Netflix, Disney+, and Hulu typically restore your watch history and preferences when ready. Games may or may not restore progress, depending on whether the developer uses cloud saves.

Freeing up storage space on your Apple TV

Apple TV devices have limited built-in storage — typically 32 GB or 64 GB depending on your model. Removing apps you no longer use is one of the fastest ways to reclaim space, especially if you have many games or apps that store large amounts of data locally.

To check how much storage each app is using before you delete it, go to Settings > Apps > Manage Apps and look at the size listed next to each app name. Large games or apps that cache video files will show the biggest numbers. Deleting even two or three large apps can noticeably improve your Apple TV's performance if it was running slowly.

Apps you cannot remove from Apple TV

Some built-in apps that come pre-installed on your Apple TV cannot be deleted, including Control Center, AirPlay and HomeKit, Notifications, and the TV app itself. These are system apps that Apple considers essential to the device's core function.

If you do not use these apps, you can hide them from your home screen instead. Press and hold the app icon, select Remove from Home Screen (not Remove), and the app will disappear from view but remain on your device. You can always add it back later by going to the App Store, searching for the app, and selecting Add to Home Screen.

Reinstalling an app you deleted

To put an app back on your Apple TV after removing it, open the App Store from your home screen and search for the app by name. When you find it, select the cloud icon with a read arrow (not a price or Get button, since the app is free to reinstall if you purchased it before).

The app will read and install automatically. If the app requires a subscription or in-app purchase, you will not be charged again — your previous purchase is tied to your Apple ID. The read usually takes less than a minute depending on the app size and your internet speed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will deleting an app remove my login information?

Deleting the app removes it from your device, but your account data usually stays in the cloud. When you reinstall, you will often find yourself still logged in. However, some apps store login information locally, so you may need to sign in again depending on how the developer built the app.

Can I delete multiple apps at once?

No, you must delete apps one at a time. Press and hold each app individually and select Remove. There is no batch delete option on Apple TV like there is on iPhone or iPad.

Does removing an app speed up my Apple TV?

Yes, if your device is running low on storage. Deleting large apps and games frees up space, which can improve overall performance. If your Apple TV has plenty of free storage already, removing unused apps will have minimal impact on speed.

What if an app will not delete?

Built-in system apps cannot be deleted — you can only hide them. If a third-party app will not delete, try restarting your Apple TV by going to Settings > System > Restart, then attempt the deletion again. If it still will not work, contact the app developer for support.