Deleting home screen links on an iPhone is a simple process. Just tap and hold the link you want to remove, wait for it to jiggle, then tap the “X” that appears. Confirm the deletion and the link will disappear from your home screen.
After completing this action, the link and any associated data will be permanently removed from your iPhone’s home screen. If it’s a website link, you can always re-add it by visiting the website and selecting “Add to Home Screen” again.
Introduction
We’ve all been there. Your iPhone’s home screen is cluttered with links to websites, apps, and contacts that you no longer use or need quick access to. It can be overwhelming and make it difficult to find the things you actually use regularly. But fear not! Cleaning up your iPhone’s home screen is an easy task that can make your phone feel new again.
This article is for anyone who wants to declutter their iPhone’s home screen by deleting unnecessary links. Whether you’re a tech-savvy individual who likes to keep things tidy or someone who accidentally added a link and now can’t figure out how to remove it, this guide will walk you through the process step by step. Plus, it’s not just about aesthetics; a well-organized home screen can improve your phone’s performance and your productivity. So, let’s get started!
Step by Step Tutorial: How to Delete Home Screen Links on the iPhone
Before diving into the steps, it’s important to note that deleting a home screen link will remove it from view, but it doesn’t delete the app itself or your account on a website. These steps will help you remove any unwanted icons that are taking up valuable space on your home screen.
Step 1: Locate the link you want to delete
Tap and hold the link icon on your home screen.
When you press and hold the link, all the icons on your screen will start to wiggle. This indicates that you’re in edit mode, which allows you to delete or move the home screen links.
Step 2: Tap the “X”
Once the icons are wiggling, tap the “X” that appears in the top left corner of the link you want to delete.
A confirmation message will pop up to ensure you want to delete the link. This is a safeguard to prevent accidental deletions. If you’re sure about removing the link, go ahead and confirm.
Step 3: Confirm the deletion
After tapping the “X,” you’ll be prompted to confirm that you want to delete the link. Tap “Delete” to confirm.
Once you’ve confirmed the deletion, the link will disappear from your home screen. If you ever need to access that website or contact again, you can do so through the Safari browser or your contacts list.
Pros
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Decluttered Home Screen | A cleaner home screen makes it easier to navigate and quickly find the apps and links you use most often. |
| Improved Performance | Removing unused links can free up system resources and potentially improve your iPhone’s performance. |
| Customization | Deleting links allows you to customize your home screen layout to your personal preferences and needs. |
Cons
| Drawback | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Permanent Deletion | Once a link is deleted, it’s gone. If you change your mind, you’ll have to manually add it back. |
| Potential Data Loss | If you delete a link to a website where you’ve stored data (like a web app), you may lose access to that data. |
| Accidental Deletions | It’s easy to accidentally delete a link you wanted to keep, especially if you’re not careful when in edit mode. |
Additional Information
When it comes to managing your iPhone’s home screen, there are a few additional tips to keep in mind. First, if you’re hesitant to delete a link because you might need it in the future, consider moving it to a separate folder or another screen page instead. This way, it won’t be in your immediate view, but you’ll still have access to it when needed.
Another thing to consider is the use of widgets. With the introduction of iOS 14, iPhone users can now add widgets to their home screen. These can take up more space than a simple link, so if you’re trying to save space, be selective about which widgets you choose to keep.
Lastly, remember that any changes you make to your home screen can be undone. If you delete a link and later realize you need it, you can always add it back through the Safari browser or the App Store. The key is to create a home screen environment that works best for you and your needs.
Summary
- Locate the link you want to delete by tapping and holding the icon.
- Tap the “X” that appears on the link.
- Confirm the deletion by tapping “Delete.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I delete a link by accident?
If you’ve accidentally deleted a link, you can usually re-add it by finding the website in Safari and selecting “Add to Home Screen” or downloading the app again from the App Store.
Can I undo a link deletion?
No, once a link is deleted it cannot be undone. However, you can re-add it manually.
Will deleting a home screen link delete the app from my iPhone?
No, deleting a home screen link only removes the icon from view. The app itself is still on your iPhone.
Is there a limit to how many links I can have on my home screen?
Technically, no. But the more links you have, the more cluttered your home screen will be.
Can I delete multiple links at once?
Yes, you can enter edit mode and tap the “X” on multiple links before confirming the deletions.
Conclusion
Mastering how to delete home screen links on the iPhone is a small yet significant step towards a more organized digital life. Not only does it declutter your visual space, but it can also lead to improved device performance and a more personalized user experience. Remember, your home screen is the gateway to your digital world, so keep it clean, keep it simple, and keep it working for you. Happy decluttering!
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.