Why Do We Keep Apps We Rarely Use and What’s the Primary Reason Behind It?

In today's digital age, smartphones are an integral part of our daily lives, hosting a multitude of applications designed to simplify and enhance our lifestyle. However, it's not uncommon for users to have applications installed on their smartphones that they scarcely use, if at all. This article explores the reasons behind keeping unused apps and highlights popular instances of such applications.

The Case for Keeping Unused Apps

Many individuals, like me, decide to retain applications on their smartphones that they seldom use. The rationale behind this decision can vary widely. Some people hold onto apps with the belief that they might come in handy in the future, while others simply don't want to delete apps that require extensive login processes. In my case, I have several applications installed, some of which I use occasionally, but others that I have never utilized.

For instance, I have applications like LinkedIn, WhatsApp, Internshala, Able Jobs, Discord, and Telegram that I have installed but never use. These apps might seem redundant on the surface, but the storage habits and potential future utility often outweigh the immediate need to delete them.

Another notable app is Radio. Ever since I got my phone, it has been installed, but I have never actually used it. While some people might find merit in listening to songs or the news through their smartphones, I don't consider it a practical use of a 4G-capable device. Instead, I prefer to engage with visual content, making things like a radio app less appealing.

Common Unused Apps by Brand

Other users might find themselves with a collection of apps connected to specific brands or platforms. For example, there are several apps associated with Apple, including Podcasts and Health, which were installed during specific updates of iOS. Users might delete these apps after the initial use, but others might keep them on their devices.

Another noteworthy case is the decision to avoid certain apps like Facebook. Despite its widespread use, many people prefer not to have Facebook installed on their smartphones. For instance, I Absolutely Refuse to have Facebook on my phone, ever, due to privacy and time management concerns.

However, some apps are necessary for performance reasons, even if they're rarely used. For instance, Google’s Chrome browser might be installed on a phone, even though another browser like Opera is the primary choice. Sometimes, these apps might be installed to facilitate seamless integration with the user's computer, such as using Google Chrome for work tasks on a Windows or Mac device.

Why We Keep Apps We Rarely Use

The primary reasons for keeping unused apps can be classified into a few categories:

Potential Future Use: Users might believe an app could potentially come in handy in the future. While this is an optimistic outlook, it helps in retaining apps for occasional use. Storage Habits: Once an app is installed, it can be challenging to delete, especially if it requires a login process. Brand Reliability: Trust in the brand might make users keep apps from specific companies, even if they're not frequently used. System Integration: Some apps are installed for system-level support, even if they are rarely used. For example, keeping Google Chrome can facilitate a seamless experience on a computer.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the decision to keep or delete unused apps is a multifaceted issue influenced by personal preferences, future potential, and system requirements. By understanding these factors, users can make informed choices about which apps to retain and which to delete.

So, what unused apps do you still have on your smartphone? Share your thoughts in the comments below!