To effectively "clean apps" on an Android device, it primarily involves removing unused applications to free up storage space and improve performance. Here's a detailed guide based on the provided reference:
Steps to Clean Unused Apps on Android Using Files by Google
-
Open Files by Google: Locate and open the Files by Google app on your Android device.
-
Navigate to the Clean Menu: Tap the Menu icon, usually represented by three horizontal lines, and then select Clean.
-
Find "Delete Unused Apps" Card:
- If you see a card labeled "Delete unused apps", tap it.
- If you do not find it, scroll down to "Free up more space" card and tap "Search for apps."
-
Confirm Access: When the confirmation dialog appears, tap Continue.
-
Grant Usage Access:
- On the “Usage access” screen, tap Files by Google.
- Enable usage access for the app by toggling the switch on.
-
Select Apps to Uninstall: You'll now see a list of apps that you haven't used in a while. Select the apps you want to uninstall, and then confirm your action.
Why Clean Apps?
- Free up storage space: Unused apps consume valuable storage, which can slow down your device.
- Improve device performance: By removing unnecessary apps, you can improve your phone’s overall speed and responsiveness.
- Reduce clutter: Having fewer unused apps keeps your app drawer and home screens cleaner and easier to navigate.
Additional Tips for Managing Apps:
- Regularly Review Apps: Make it a habit to check your installed apps every few months to identify those you no longer need or use.
- Disable Unnecessary Apps: If you cannot uninstall certain system apps, disabling them can also free up resources and reduce their impact. Go to Settings > Apps, find the app and choose "Disable."
- Clear App Cache: Over time, apps can accumulate cache and data. Clear these in Settings > Apps, find the app and select "Storage", then tap "Clear Cache" and "Clear Data".
- Use Files by Google's Tools: Take advantage of Files by Google's additional features, like identifying large files and duplicate files, which can help you free up more space.
By following these steps, you can maintain a clutter-free device that operates efficiently.