Uninstalling an app on Android can be easy, but sometimes you might want to reinstall a recently removed app or check which apps were removed for record-keeping purposes. While Android doesn’t offer a direct way to view recently uninstalled apps, there are several methods and tools you can use to track or recover these apps. Here’s how to see recently uninstalled apps on your Android device.
1. Using the Google Play Store’s Library Feature
One of the simplest ways to view recently uninstalled apps is by using the Google Play Store’s Library feature. Google Play keeps a history of all apps downloaded with your Google account, even if they’re uninstalled.
Steps:
1. Open the Google Play Store: Launch the Google Play Store app on your Android device.
2. Go to Your Profile: Tap on your profile icon in the upper-right corner.
3. Select “Manage Apps & Device”: From the menu, go to Manage apps & device.
4. Go to the “Manage” Tab: In the “Manage” section, you’ll see a list of all apps.
5. Filter by “Not Installed”: Tap the filter button (often labeled as “Installed”) and choose Not Installed. This will show you apps that have been uninstalled.
6. Sort by “Recently Added”: To see your recently uninstalled apps, sort by “Recently Added.” Apps you removed recently will appear at the top of this list.
This method allows you to reinstall any previously installed app with just a tap.
2. Using Device Settings for App Usage History
Some Android devices have settings that track your app usage. While this isn’t a direct record of uninstalled apps, it can show you a list of recently used apps, which might help you identify those that were uninstalled.
Steps:
1. Open Settings: Go to Settings on your Android device.
2. Tap on Digital Wellbeing & Parental Controls: This option displays app usage and time spent on each app.
3. Review App Usage History: Go through the list of apps and take note of any apps you remember using but don’t see on your device anymore. This could indicate an uninstalled app.
Keep in mind that not all Android devices have Digital Wellbeing, and the availability may vary based on the device model and software version.
3. Use a Third-Party App Manager
If you frequently uninstall and reinstall apps or want a more detailed record of app installations, third-party app managers can be helpful. Apps like App Backup & Restore or ES File Explorer keep track of installed and uninstalled apps and provide backup options.
– App Backup & Restore: This app not only backs up your apps but also keeps track of app installation and uninstallation history.
– ES File Explorer: Known for its extensive file management features, ES File Explorer can help you track app activity, though it may not provide a dedicated uninstalled app history.
Simply download these apps from the Google Play Store, set up app tracking, and you’ll have a history of uninstalled apps for future reference.
4. Check Google Activity for App Install History
Google Activity is another way to track recently used apps, which can give you clues about uninstalled apps, especially if you used them recently.
Steps:
1. Visit Google My Activity: Open a browser on your Android device and go to myactivity.google.com.
2. Sign in to Your Google Account: Use the account linked to your Android device.
3. Filter by “Android”: Choose Filter by Date & Product and select Android. This will display actions like app installations, launches, and interactions.
4. Review Recent Activity: Look for app interactions that are no longer available on your device, as this may indicate recently uninstalled apps.
Using Google Activity is a bit more indirect, but it can help confirm if an app was recently used before it was uninstalled.
5. Using App Drawer and Screen Memory
Sometimes, the simplest methods can help you track recently uninstalled apps. Your Android home screen or app drawer may have residual icons or empty spaces where you previously had an app, helping you remember what was uninstalled.
– Check Folders and Screens: Go through folders and pages in your app drawer or home screen to identify empty spots where an app icon was before.
– Re-add Missing Apps: Once you identify which apps were uninstalled, use Google Play Store’s Library to reinstall them.
6. Consider Using a Backup Solution in the Future
If keeping track of uninstalled apps is important, consider setting up regular backups on your device.
– Google Drive Backup: Android allows you to back up apps and app data to Google Drive, which can help you restore app history if needed.
– Third-Party Backup Apps: Some apps, like Titanium Backup (for rooted devices), offer comprehensive backup solutions that include app history and data. This can help prevent accidental uninstalls or allow for easy reinstalls.
While Android doesn’t have a straightforward “recently uninstalled apps” feature, you can use several effective methods to track down and reinstall recently removed apps. Whether you’re using the Google Play Store’s Library, checking your Google Activity, or using a third-party app manager, these methods make it easy to restore uninstalled apps. For future convenience, consider setting up app backups to keep your favorite apps accessible even after uninstallation.
