How to Uninstall Software from Your Mac and Why Regular Removal is Essential

As a tech writer, my job involves installing apps, testing them, writing about my experiences, and then uninstalling them. Sure, a few might stick around, but generally, it's a one-time deal. Once I'm done, those apps are out the door. Why? Well, for starters, space is at a premium on my MacBook Pro. I don't want to clutter up my storage with apps I'm not using. Then there's the issue of permissions—why keep an app hanging around with access it doesn't need, potentially causing problems down the line?

As they say, better safe than sorry—and that's doubly true in the tech world.

Luckily, MacOS makes it a breeze to remove software. There are two straightforward methods, and I'll walk you through both.

How to Remove Software from Launchpad

What you'll need: A MacOS device with an up-to-date operating system. It's a good habit to install updates as soon as they're available—not just for new features, but crucially for security.

1. Open Launchpad

   Click the Launchpad icon on your dock, which looks like a colorful grid of smaller squares.

2. Locate the App in Question

   You can scroll through the list or type the app's name into the search field.

3. Delete the App

   Hold down the Option key, and the app icons will start to jiggle. An 'X' will appear in the top right corner of each icon. Click the 'X' next to the app you want to remove, and when prompted, confirm by clicking Delete.

4. An Alternative Method

   Alternatively, you can drag the app's icon directly from Launchpad to the trash can on your dock.

How to Remove Apps from Finder

You might find that some apps can't be removed through Launchpad (no 'X' appears when you hold down the Option key). In those cases, use this method.

1. Open Finder

   Launch Finder from your dock or Launchpad.

2. Navigate to the Applications Folder

   Click on 'Applications' in the left sidebar to view all installed apps.

3. Delete the App

   Find the app you want to delete, right-click (or two-finger tap) on its icon, and select "Move to Trash." Some removals may require authentication via password or fingerprint scanner. Once authenticated, the app moves to the Trash.

4. Empty Your Trash

   Finally, right-click (or two-finger tap) the trash can icon on the dock and select "Empty Trash" to completely remove the app.

And there you have it—you've successfully removed software from your MacOS device.