There are few apps that have been with me for so long on every one of my Android devices, whether it’s my own device or my analyzer: Application Manager or Application AdministratorIt’s a must-have app for me. And I’ve been using it since April 2014; I’ve been clearing out excess apps from my phones and tablets for over a decade.

I came to Android with the help of HTC Magic, the second smartphone launched with the operating system, which was bought by Vodafone in 2009 and Google in 2005. Since 2009, I have had hundreds of Android devices, it is impossible to keep track. My usage habits have also evolved with them: from experimental applications to social networks; As for games, I have a huge library. Among all these software, the Application Manager has been with me since its launch.

What do I need to bulk delete apps? App manager to the rescue

I have been using this app for over ten years. Almost nothing

The app appeared on the Google Play Store in March 2014. I discovered it the following month, leaving a comment on the store recommending it for download (with a response from developer AndroidDeveloperLB). It’s been a constant on my phones ever since, as it always restores itself on first boot. If not, I search for it and download it manually.

So what does the Application Manager do? Its name already suggests it: it keeps track of installed applications, whether they are user or system applications. And it allows remove them in bulk as well as other advanced functions; such as filtering the list precisely, clearing the cache, or sharing the app to install APK on another Android.

Among all the functions, the one that has always been important to me is the mass removal of applications. For him:

• I open the Application Manager.
• The manager lists apps in order of installation, this is the default filtering. I’m good now.
• I find all the new apps I installed, probably to write articles or find topics to write about (I also clear out the games I installed to earn Google Play Points).
• Click on the trash can icon at the bottom.
• I accept the uninstall process one by one and the Application Manager proceeds remove them from the backgroundwithout further intervention.

Uninstalling all apps at once saves me a lot of time. Filtering makes it easy

This way to mass uninstall applications was not available when the Application Manager came out, now there are several layers that include it, such as Xiaomi. Google Play itself does it, but I think it is much easier to uninstall what is unnecessary with the Application Manager: Its filtering greatly simplifies the task. Additionally, you can view system apps and disable them. This is not done from the app, it goes directly to system settings.

The operation of the Application Manager is suitable for mobile phones without ROOT, but in rooted ones it is one level higher: the mass uninstall operation does not require any confirmation from Android, in addition to being able to remove any system application. I used it this way in 2014, now I only have a rooted Android. We are all evolving.

Cover image | Ivan Linares

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