Launchpad is a built-in way to remove apps you got from the App Store. Press and hold an app until it wiggles, then click the X. Apps that do not show an X must be removed in Finder instead.
Quick steps
- Open Launchpad.
- Press and hold an app icon until the icons wiggle.
- Click the X on the app.
- Confirm the removal.
Step 1: Open Launchpad
Click the Launchpad icon in the Dock. It shows every app on your Mac in a grid.
Step 2: Start the wiggle
Press and hold an app’s icon. After a moment, all the icons start to wiggle. This means they are ready to be edited.
Step 3: Remove the app
- Click the X in the corner of the app.
- Click Delete to confirm.
One-time purchase. Works on macOS 15 or later, on Apple silicon and Intel Macs.
If you do not see an X
Apps without an X were not installed from the App Store. Remove them in Finder. Open Applications, select the app, and press Command and Delete.
After you finish
Click any empty part of the screen, or press Escape, to stop the wiggle.
Warning: Launchpad removes the app, but files it left behind may stay on your Mac. See the guide on leftover files if you want to check.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get an app back after I remove it with Launchpad?
Yes. Open the App Store, go to Purchased, and download the app again. It is free to download again if you already bought it.
Why does Launchpad not show my app?
Some apps are not listed there. Check the Applications folder in Finder.
Is Launchpad the same as the Applications folder?
Not quite. Launchpad is a grid of your apps. The Applications folder is where the apps are stored. Both show the same apps.
Want one simple step instead?
Uninstallzy shows every app with its size. Pick the app, confirm once, and it goes to the Trash.
One-time purchase. Works on macOS 15 or later, on Apple silicon and Intel Macs.