How to Uninstall an App on Shopify

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Understanding the Need for Uninstallation
3. How to Uninstall an App on Shopify (Desktop)
4. How to Uninstall an App on Shopify (Mobile)
5. Addressing Residual App Code
6. Developer's Corner: Uninstalling Apps via API
7. Common Issues and Troubleshooting
8. Conclusion
9. FAQ

Introduction

Unexpectedly enough, nearly 90% of Shopify users regularly leverage apps to optimize their e-commerce stores, enhancing everything from marketing to inventory management. However, the needs of a business evolve, and an app that was once indispensable can become redundant or even burdensome. This often leads to the quintessential query: "How do I uninstall an app on Shopify?"

Understanding how to effectively uninstall an app is crucial for maintaining a streamlined, efficient website. This article aims to guide you through the process, ensuring you avoid common pitfalls and achieve a smooth uninstallation.

By the end of this post, you'll know precisely how to uninstall an app on Shopify--be it from the desktop admin dashboard, your iPhone, or an Android device. We'll also cover steps for fully cleaning up your theme if the app left behind residual code, and touch on how developers can remotely uninstall apps via API requests.

Understanding the Need for Uninstallation

Before diving into the step-by-step guide, it's important to understand why uninstalling an app might be necessary:

• Performance Issues: Unused apps can slow down your store.
• Cost Management: Reducing unnecessary app subscriptions can save money.
• Security: Removing unused apps can reduce vulnerabilities.

Whether you're seeking to improve site performance, cut costs, or tighten security, uninstalling unused apps is a valuable practice.

How to Uninstall an App on Shopify (Desktop)

Uninstalling an app from the Shopify desktop version involves a few straightforward steps:

1. Log in to Your Shopify Admin: Access your store by logging in with your store owner's credentials.

2. Navigate to "Apps": From your dashboard, head over to Settings > Apps and sales channels.

3. Select the App to Uninstall: Locate the app you want to remove and click on its name to open the app's details page.

4. Click the Garbage Can Icon: You will see a garbage can icon next to the app. Click it to initiate the uninstall process.

5. Confirm Uninstallation: A popup will prompt you to confirm the action. Click Uninstall to finalize the process.

Ensuring a Clean Uninstallation

Some apps might inject code into your theme, making the process slightly more involved:

• Check the Theme: Go to Online Store > Themes, and preview a fresh theme to see if the problem still persists.

• Contact Support: If lingering issues are found, contact the app developers.

How to Uninstall an App on Shopify (Mobile)

For those who prefer managing their store on the go, uninstalling an app from your mobile device is equally simple.

For iPhone:

1. Open the Shopify App: Log in with your store owner’s account.

2. Go to Apps: Tap on the Store field, then navigate to Apps.

3. Find and Remove the App: Tap the three-dot menu ( ... ) next to the app you want to remove, then tap Remove app.

4. Confirm Uninstallation: Clarify the reason for uninstalling if prompted, and tap Submit.

For Android:

Follow the same steps as for the iPhone, ensuring a seamless uninstallation process across all devices.

Addressing Residual App Code

Removing an app doesn't always mean all its code is purged. Here’s how to deal with residual code:

Identifying Residual Code

• Check Theme Files: Access Online Store > Themes, and inspect your theme's code to find and remove any leftover snippets.

• Test a New Theme: Switch to a different Shopify theme temporarily to see if the removed app's code is affecting your current theme.

Reverting to a Previous Theme Version

• Duplicate Your Theme: Always duplicate your current theme before making any changes.

• Revert as Needed: If new code injections cause issues, publish the duplicated theme to revert your changes.

Developer's Corner: Uninstalling Apps via API

Developers can also uninstall apps via API requests. The Shopify Admin API allows for app removal, making it invaluable for large-scale app management.

Steps to Use API for Uninstallation:

1. Obtain Access Token: You need OAuth tokens to authenticate API requests.

2. Initiate API Call: Use an API endpoint designed for uninstalling apps, and send a DELETE request to it.

3. Cleanup Tasks: Ensure cleanup tasks are carried out, like deleting webhooks, script tags, and admin links.

Example API Request:

DELETE /admin/api/2023-01/stores/{store_id}/apps/{app_id}.json

This sample call triggers the uninstallation and related cleanup processes.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

Lingering App Features

• Inject Code Removal: If an app like Product Reviews remains visible after uninstalling, inspect and remove the injected code manually.

• Support Tickets: For persistent issues, escalate the problem via Shopify support or the app developer.

Shopify Admin Glitches

If the usual paths for uninstalling apps don't appear in your admin dashboard, consider clearing your browser cache or trying from another device.

Conclusion

Uninstalling an app on Shopify can be simple, but knowing the intricacies ensures you handle it like a pro. Key takeaways include:

• Proper Procedure: Follow steps carefully, especially the confirmation phase.
• Code Cleanup: Inspect and remove any leftover code from your theme.
• Developer Tools: Use API calls for bulk or remote uninstallation.

By the end of this guide, you should be fully equipped to manage the apps on your Shopify store, ensuring only the most useful and efficient tools remain in use.

FAQ

1. Can I reinstall an app after uninstalling it?

Yes, apps can be reinstalled via the Shopify App Store or directly from the Apps and sales channels section.

2. Will I incur charges for uninstalled apps?

Uninstalled apps should no longer incur charges, but always check the app’s billing cycle details to ensure you’re not billed post-uninstallation.

3. What if I can’t remove all codes injected by the app?

Contact the app developers or seek the help of a Shopify Expert to ensure a complete cleanup.

4. Can I uninstall custom or private apps in the same way?

The uninstallation process for custom or private apps may involve additional steps. Refer to the specific app’s documentation and settings in the Shopify admin.

5. How do I know if the app requires additional uninstallation steps?

Check the app’s documentation or support within Shopify’s admin panel under Settings > Apps and sales channels to see additional steps required for specific apps.