Android users are fond of customizing their device by using different themes to give a fresh and unique look.
However, after a while, some users might start feeling bored with the same theme and want to get rid of it.
Although it seems an easy process, removing themes from Android is a bit tricky and not straightforward.
The Challenge of Getting Rid of Themes on Android
Removing a theme from an Android device is not a simple click-and-delete process.
Themes are installed as overlays that change the appearance of the device’s user interface.
As a result, the process of removing a theme from an Android device can vary depending on the device’s manufacturer and Android version.
Things You Should Prepare for
Before removing a theme from your Android device, there are some things you should prepare for.
These include:
1. Backup: It is highly recommended to back up your device and data before you proceed with any significant changes to your device.
2. Default theme: Make sure you have the default theme installed on your device, since it is impossible to remove the current theme without having one installed.
Methods
There are several methods you can use to remove a theme from your Android device. Below are some of the most effective ones:
Video Tutorial:
Method 1: Via Settings
Some Android devices have a dedicated theme section in settings, making it easy to remove a theme. Here’s how:
1. Go to the device settings.
2. Scroll down and tap on "Themes."
3. Look for the theme you want to remove and tap it.
4. Tap "Delete" or "Uninstall" to remove the theme.
5. If prompted, confirm the deletion.
Pros: A straightforward process that does not require additional tools.
Cons: This method is only available on devices that have a dedicated theme section in settings.
Method 2: Using a Third-Party Launcher
Some users resort to third-party launchers to customize their Android device interface. If you are using a third-party launcher to apply a theme, you can also remove it through the launcher. Here’s how:
1. Go to your device’s home screen.
2. Tap and hold on an empty space to access the available launcher options.
3. Tap "Settings" on the launcher options.
4. Look for the "Themes & Layouts" section.
5. Tap the theme you want to remove and select "Delete."
6. If prompted, confirm the deletion.
Pros: You can use this method regardless of your device’s manufacturer or Android version.
Cons: If you are not familiar with third-party launchers, this method may be a bit overwhelming.
Method 3: Using ADB Commands
You can use ADB (Android Debug Bridge) commands to remove a theme from your Android device. Here’s how:
1. Enable USB debugging on your device from developer options.
2. Connect your device to your computer via USB cable.
3. Open command prompt or terminal on your computer.
4. Type "adb devices" to verify that your device is connected.
5. Type "adb shell pm list packages" to access the list of installed packages on your device.
6. Scroll down to find the package name of the theme you want to remove.
7. Type "adb shell pm uninstall -k –user 0 PACKAGE_NAME" to remove the theme, replacing PACKAGE_NAME with the name of the theme’s package.
Pros: You can use this method on any Android device, regardless of the manufacturer or Android version.
Cons: Requires a bit of technical experience and is not recommended for beginners.
Why Can’t I Remove a Theme from My Android Device?
Sometimes, users might not be able to remove a theme from their Android device due to several reasons. Some of these reasons include:
1. The device is rooted: If you have rooted your device, it might be difficult to remove the theme. You might need to unroot your device before attempting to remove the theme.
2. The theme is a pre-installed system theme: System themes are integrated into the operating system and cannot be uninstalled like regular apps.
3. The theme is locked: Some OEMs lock their pre-installed themes, making them unable to delete or remove.
Additional Tips
1. If you can’t remove a theme by the methods listed above, try using a third-party app manager like ES File Explorer or SD Maid to remove the theme package.
2. Always have the default theme installed on your device, even if you don’t plan on using it. This will ensure that you have a fallback option in case you can’t remove the current theme.
5 FAQs About Removing Themes from Android
Q1: Can I remove a pre-installed theme from my Android device?
A: No, you cannot remove a pre-installed system theme from your Android device.
Q2: What happens if I uninstall a theme package that a running app is dependent on?
A: Uninstalling a theme package that a running app is dependent on might cause the app to crash or not function correctly.
Q3: Can I remove a Samsung theme from my non-Samsung Android device?
A: No, you cannot remove a Samsung theme from a non-Samsung Android device.
Q4: Is it safe to use ADB commands to remove a theme?
A: Yes, it is safe to use ADB commands to remove a theme, as long as you enter the correct package name.
Q5: How can I prevent accidentally applying a theme?
A: You can prevent accidentally applying a theme by disabling auto-apply theme in your settings.
In Conclusion
Removing a theme from an Android device can be a bit tricky, but it is doable.
By following the methods listed above, you can easily get rid of a theme from your device.
Always remember to back up your device and have the default theme installed before attempting to remove a theme.