This post has been Last Updated 1 month ago by Kunal
This is exactly how I uninstalled the Google Play Store from Android, with all the proven steps and techniques. This is the ULTIMATE blog post for doing that. Previously, we uninstalled YouTube from Android, but this time, let’s remove the Play Store
How to Uninstall Google Play Store (Optional)
Now one thing is sure, if you replace the stock Android with any custom ROM, then obviously you have more advanced features but everything comes at a cost. So, after installing a custom ROM, you can uninstall all the Google apps which come preinstalled on Android. Alternatively, you can uninstall the Play Store from your Android by first clearing all the data and then disabling the app. It is safe to do this; there is no harm in disabling the app. But keep in mind, you have to update apps from any other third-party app store or by downloading the APK files for that.
If you don’t plan on using the Play Store for downloading apps, you can disable it instead of uninstallation. Disabling hides the Play Store icon from your app drawer and prevents you from downloading or updating apps through it. However, it’s important to note that disabling Play Store might cause compatibility issues with other apps that rely on Play Store services.
Here’s how to disable the Google Play Store
- Open the Settings app on your Android device.
- Navigate to Apps (or Apps & notifications depending on your device).
- Find and tap on Google Play Store.
- Tap on Disable.
For Samsung devices
- Open the Settings app and go to Apps.
- Find and select the Google Play Store app.
- Tap “Disable” or “Force stop” to disable the Play Store temporarily.
For Motorola devices
- Go to Settings > Apps & notifications.
- Tap “See all apps” and find the Google Play Store app.
- Select “Disable” or “Force stop” to disable the Play Store.
For Huawei devices
- Open the Settings app and go to Apps.
- Tap “Apps,” then find and select the Google Play Store.
- Tap “Disable” or “Force stop” to disable the Play Store.
For OnePlus devices
- Go to Settings > Apps & notifications.
- Tap “See all apps” and find the Google Play Store app.
- Select “Disable” or “Force stop” to disable the Play Store.
For any other Android device
- Open the Settings app and go to Apps or Application Manager.
- Find and select the Google Play Store app from the list of installed apps.
- Tap “Disable” or “Force stop” to disable the Play Store temporarily.
Remember: Disabling the Play Store is not the same as uninstalling it. You can always re-enable the Play Store by following the same steps and tapping Enable instead.
Alternatives to Uninstalling Google Play Store
While uninstalling the Google Play Store isn’t possible, you might be looking for alternative app stores. It’s important to understand the security risks associated with downloading apps from untrusted sources. These sources may contain malware or viruses that can harm your device and steal your data.
There are many third-party platforms for downloading and updating apps, such as APKPure, Aptoide, etc. These are safer and more authentic third-party app stores. I have personal experience using them from 2017 to the 2020s. So, these apps can be really good alternatives to the Google Play Store. Alternatively, you can simply download the APK files from websites like Uptodown, etc.
Here’s a list of some popular third-party app stores:
- APKPure
- Aptoide
- Amazon Appstore
- GetJar
- F-Droid
- APKMirror
- Uptodown
- AppBrain
- SlideME
- Mobogenie
A safer alternative is to explore curated app stores offered by reputable phone manufacturers. These stores typically have a smaller selection of apps compared to Play Store, but they go through a vetting process to ensure user safety. However, this option may not be available on all devices.
| Alternative | Description |
| Manufacturer’s App Store | Many manufacturers offer their own curated app stores. In my case, I find these to be a safer alternative as the apps are vetted for security, though the selection may be limited. |
| Sideload Apps | You can sideload apps by manually installing APKs from trusted sources. However, I caution against this as it bypasses security checks and can expose your device to risks. |
| Third-Party App Stores | Options like Amazon Appstore or Aptoide exist, but I suggest thoroughly researching their reputation and security measures before using them. |
| Web Apps & Mobile Sites | Many popular apps and services offer web-based or mobile site versions. In my experience, these can be convenient alternatives to installing apps. |
| Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) | PWAs function like native apps but are web-based. I find them to be a good middle ground between web apps and traditional mobile apps. |
| Cloud Services | Services like Google Drive and Dropbox can provide app-like functionality without installation. I recommend exploring these for cloud storage and file management needs. |
| Desktop Clients | For some apps, you can use their desktop versions remotely from your mobile device, though functionality may be limited. |
| Alternative Operating Systems | Options like LineageOS allow customizing your app store experience, but I caution that this approach requires technical expertise and may introduce other challenges. |
Risks of Rooting for Uninstallation (Not Recommended)
While researching alternatives, I came across suggestions to root my device to uninstall Play Store. However, I strongly caution against this approach.
By rooting, I would gain superuser access, allowing actions typically restricted for security reasons. But the risks are significant:
- Voided Warranty: Most manufacturers void the warranty if I root my device. This means I’d be solely responsible for any repairs needed after rooting, which can be costly.
- Security Vulnerabilities: Rooting introduces security vulnerabilities, making my device more susceptible to malware attacks. As someone who values data privacy, I cannot expose my device to such risks.
- Unstable Performance: Rooting can lead to unexpected system behavior and instability on my device, which I heavily rely on for personal and professional use.
Due to these risks, I strongly advise against attempting to uninstall Play Store through rooting, unless you are an advanced user fully aware of the consequences.
In my opinion, it’s wiser to explore safer alternatives like curated app stores from reputable manufacturers or trusted third-party sources. Even then, I recommend thorough research into their reputation and security measures.
Explaining How Removing the Play Store Impacts
Imagine you have a big toy box filled with all sorts of toys. The Google Play Store is like that toy box, and the apps you download are like the toys inside it. When you disable the Play Store, it’s like putting a lid on the toy box and hiding it away, so you can’t access the toys (apps) inside.
However, here’s the catch – some of your other toys might need to borrow toys from that toy box to function properly. In the same way, some of your other apps might rely on the Play Store services to work correctly. So, if you disable the Play Store, those apps might not work as they should.
Why Does Someone Want to Remove the Google Play Store?
- Security Concerns: Personally, I might worry about app permissions or data collection practices. Disabling the Play Store prevents new app downloads, which could help address these concerns.
- Limited Storage Space: In my experience, when I have a device with very limited storage space, disabling the Play Store can prevent automatic app updates that take up valuable space.
- Parental Controls: If you’re a parent like me, you might want to restrict your children’s access to apps and in-app purchases by disabling the Play Store.
- Alternative App Stores: Sometimes, I prefer alternative app stores that offer specific apps or content not available on the Play Store. Disabling the Play Store allows me to use these alternatives more exclusively.
- Rooting for Customization: In my case, I’ve explored rooting my device for more control over the system. This can sometimes lead to considering uninstalling the Play Store, though I recommend caution due to the risks involved.
Conclusion
That’s it for the blog post today. I hope you find it helpful. Today, I tried showing you how to uninstall the Google Play Store from your device. For those who want to remove the Play Store from Android, there could be multiple reasons, whether it’s for privacy concerns or managing access for your kids, among others. This is exactly what to follow to remove the Google Play Store app.
If you have any doubts or suggestions, feel free to let me know in the comment section, or you can simply contact us. Have a nice day.