Why can't I uninstall an app on Android? The Uninstall button is greyed out
Usually because the app is active as a device admin app. Android won't uninstall an app while it holds that access. Deactivate it in the Device admin apps list first, then uninstall it normally.
Device admin is an older, powerful kind of access used by work and anti-theft tools. It can enforce screen lock rules, lock the phone and even erase it. Some malware and stalkerware abuse it precisely because it makes them harder to remove.
You'll usually find the list under Security, or Security and privacy, or under Special app access on some phones. If the app keeps closing Settings when you try, restart into safe mode, where downloaded apps can't run, and remove it from there.
- Settings, then search for "device admin apps" and deactivate the app
- Go back to the app's App info page and tap Uninstall
- Run a Google Play Protect scan afterwards, and change passwords from another device if it was malware
How secure is your phone overall? Take the 2-minute checkup →
Cleaning Up a Phone
From the Spotting Bad Apps course. Find a bad app, remove it, and lock your accounts back down.
Try it on the simulated phone Read the full lesson
The reading is free. The hands-on lab is part of Pro.