IPhones have become an everyday item for most people in the world, and the most common problem that users encounter is the limited storage space. One solution could be deleting some apps or unused data, which can be achieved by accessing the Settings app. However, another issue that users face is the shortcuts that can accumulate over time, making browsing through apps a challenging and tedious task. Fortunately, this blog discusses how to get rid of shortcuts on iPhone by using simple methods.
Video Tutorial:
The Challenge of Getting Rid Of Shortcuts on iPhone
The challenge of getting rid of shortcuts on iPhone is that, unlike other apps or data, they do not have an on-device app that one can easily locate to delete them. These shortcuts are created when installing apps or other actions like sharing files or web links. As a result, they usually accumulate in large numbers and can make browsing your apps a bit of a hassle. They can also occupy some storage space on your device, which can contribute to the limited storage problem.
Things You Need to Prepare
1. iPhone device
2. Access to the Settings app
3. Basic knowledge of iPhone functionality
Method 1: Using the Settings app
Accessing the Settings app is the most straightforward and recommended way to get rid of shortcuts on the iPhone. It enables you to toggle off the "add to home screen" option, which results in the deletion of shortcuts. The following steps illustrate how to do it.
Steps to Follow
1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone
2. Scroll down to the "Safari" option and select it.
3. Tap the "Toggle off" option beside the "Add to Home Screen" to disable this feature.
4. This prompt will prevent Safari from adding shortcuts to your device’s home screen.
Method 2: Clearing Your Browser History
Clearing your browser history can also get rid of shortcuts on iPhone by removing some clutter and freeing up some space. It eliminates any unnecessary bookmarks, which might contain shortcuts, and saves some storage on your device.
Steps to Follow
1. Open the "Safari" Browser app on your iPhone.
2. Tap the "Bookmarks" icon, which will take you to the bookmarks page.
3. Select "History" and "Clear" from the bottom of the page.
4. Afterward, you will need to confirm your choice by tapping "Clear History and website data."
Method 3: Deleting Apps That Generate Shortcuts
Deleting apps that generate shortcuts is another alternative to get rid of them on iPhone. You will realize that some apps generate different types of shortcuts; thus, removing them might help clear any clutter that could be occupying storage on your device.
Steps to Follow
1. Tap and hold down the app you want to delete until all of the apps on the screen start shaking.
2. Tap the small "X" on the app’s top-left corner that you want to remove.
3. After selecting "Delete," the app will be removed from your device, and all of its shortcuts will be deleted as well.
Why Can’t I Get Rid Of Shortcuts on My iPhone?
1. System errors: You might encounter some unexpected errors when trying to remove the shortcuts.
2. Insufficient storage: You may not be able to access the settings or install needed resources due to insufficient storage.
3. Corrupt app: If there is a corrupt app on your device, you may experience challenges in getting rid of shortcuts.
5 FAQs About Getting Rid of Shortcuts on iPhone
Q1. Can shortcuts affect the device’s performance?
A1. Shortcuts may occupy some space on your device’s storage, thus contributing to performance issues. However, this is only in extreme cases where there is no space left and not as significant as other factors such as outdated software or hardware.
Q2. After following the methods, I still see some shortcuts. What should I do?
A2. In some cases, shortcuts that were saved before modifying settings may still appear. The best solution would be to repeat the methods mentioned above and try clearing the browser history, removing apps that generate shortcuts, or disabling the "Add to Home Screen" option.
Q3. Will removing shortcuts automatically delete the installed app?
A3. No, removing shortcuts will not delete the installed app. It will only remove the shortcut saved on the device.
Q4. Can I delete shortcuts without losing saved data or settings?
A4. Yes, deleting shortcuts will not affect any saved data or settings on your device.
Q5. Can I use a third-party app to get rid of shortcuts?
A5. Downloading and using third-party apps to clear shortcuts is not necessary, as the settings app and browser history will suffice. Besides, some third-party apps may contain malware or lead to the loss of important data or settings.
Conclusion
Getting rid of shortcuts on iPhone can be quite challenging, but it is a necessary task to clear clutter and free up space. The blog has outlined three primary methods of getting rid of shortcuts on iPhone: using the settings app, clearing browser history, and deleting apps that generate shortcuts. However, in some cases, you might encounter challenges such as system errors, corrupt apps, or insufficient storage, which might prevent successful removal of shortcuts. Overall, the process is easy, and one should be able to complete it after a few tries.