Every device running Windows 8.1 comes with pre-installed apps. These applications generally consist of two types. First, there are traditional applications that run on the Desktop. Desktop apps are what most users think of when someone says apps. This was because until Windows 8, they were the only type of application users could install. An example of a desktop application is iTunes or Google Chrome.
Starting with Windows 8 and the free Windows 8.1 update, there is a second set of apps called Windows Store apps. These are apps that live on the Start Screen and have Live Tiles. They are bold and colorful and stay up to date with the latest information. Sometimes Desktop and Windows Store apps are not useful or do not do exactly what you want.
Here’s how to uninstall apps in Windows 8.1 of the Desktop or Windows Store variants.
Windows Store Apps
Navigate to by pressing the Windows Key on your keyboard or by pressing the Windows button at the bottom of your device’s screen.
If you’re using a laptop or desktop without a touchscreen, click the arrow in the lower left corner for a list of what’s installed. If you are using a touchscreen, place your finger anywhere on the screen and swipe up to see the list of installed apps.
Find the app you want to uninstall. In our example, we are uninstalling the Network Speed Test app. Mouse and keyboard users must use their mouse to bring up a menu of options. Tablet and touchscreen users should tap the app they want to uninstall with their finger and hold it there for a few seconds.
Click or tap in the lower left corner of the app bar labeled Uninstall.
If you want to remove this app from other Windows 8.1 tablets, laptops, or desktops where it’s installed, tap or click the arrow labeled Remove from all my synced computers. Doing so will cost everything saved in that app, so be careful. Click now.
Windows Store Apps
Navigate to by pressing the Windows Key on your keyboard or by pressing the Windows button at the bottom of your device’s screen.
If you’re using a laptop or desktop without a touchscreen, click the arrow in the lower left corner for a list of what’s installed. If you are using a touchscreen, place your finger anywhere on the screen and swipe up to see the list of installed apps.
Find the app you want to uninstall. In our example, we are uninstalling the Microsoft Mouse and Keyboard app. Mouse and keyboard users must use their mouse to bring up a menu of options. Tablet and touchscreen users should tap the app they want to uninstall with their finger and hold it there for a few seconds.
Click or tap the icon in the lower left corner of the app bar labeled Uninstall.
By now you should see a popup in the Desktop interface with a list of desktop programs you have installed. Find the application you want to uninstall again in the list and click .
Now, follow the instructions to uninstall the particular app you are trying to uninstall. These are different for each app, so be sure to pay close attention.
This is how you can uninstall apps in Windows 8.1. Make sure you only uninstall apps you know you won’t be using. Note that any Windows Store app can be re-downloaded.
