If your Apple Watch is running out of storage space or your app grid is simply becoming too cluttered, deleting unused apps is a quick solution. With watchOS 10, Apple makes it easy to remove third-party applications directly from your wrist, or remotely manage them using the Watch app on your paired iPhone.
How to Delete Apps Directly on the Apple Watch
If you only need to quickly remove one or two apps, the fastest method is to do it directly on the watch itself.
- Press the Digital Crown on the side of your Apple Watch to navigate to your Home Screen.
- If you are using the default Grid View, touch and hold the center of the screen until the app icons begin to jiggle. If you are using List View, simply swipe left on the app’s name.
- Tap the “X” icon (or the red trash can icon in List View) on the app you wish to delete.
- Tap Delete App to confirm the removal.
- Press the Digital Crown again to exit edit mode and lock your layout.
Note: Several core system apps designed by Apple (such as Activity, Messages, and Settings) are permanently installed and cannot be deleted. If the app icon jiggles but does not display an “X” button, it cannot be removed.
How to Delete Apple Watch Apps Using Your iPhone
If you want to clear out multiple apps at once, using the larger screen of your iPhone is much more efficient.
- Open the Watch app on your paired iPhone.
- Ensure you are on the My Watch tab at the bottom of the screen.
- Scroll down to the bottom to find the Installed on Apple Watch section.
- Tap on the specific app you want to remove.
- Toggle off the switch labeled Show App on Apple Watch. The app will immediately be uninstalled from your watch, but it will remain installed on your iPhone.