How to Delete Kindle Blockbuster Off of an Evo

Remove locked apps like Blockbuster and Kindle using root privileges.

Smartphones such as the HTC EVO 4G come with a lot of pre-installed software, just like most Windows computers. Unlike Windows computers, there's a considerable amount of pre-installed apps -- such as Blockbuster and Amazon Kindle -- that can't be removed by normal users. Experienced users who have unlocked the Android operating system in a process called "rooting" can manually remove stubborn apps by using the file system. While the process is relatively simple, the rooting prerequisite is not, so the process requires at least some advanced Android experience.

Things You'll Need

• Rooted HTC EVO 4G
• Root-enabled file explorer

Instructions

1. Press the "Power" button, and then slide the unlock tab down. Press the "Home" button. Tap the application drawer.

2. Tap your root-enabled file explorer. If you don't have a file explorer app with root privileges, ES File Explorer is a free download in the Android Market. Navigate to the top or root folder. Tap "system," and than tap "app."

3. Tap "Mount R/W" or "Read Write" if it is not already enabled. Find the app labelled "Blockbuster.apk." Tap and hold the app label, and then tap "Delete." Tap "OK."

4. Find the app labelled "Kindle-1.apk." Tap and hold the app label, and then tap "Delete." Tap "OK." Press the "Home" button. Tap the application drawer. Note that both the Kindle and Blockbuster apps have disappeared.

Tips & Warnings

• While non-rooted users cannot actually remove locked apps, there is a work-around to simply hide them from the lock drawer. Launcher Pro is a free replacement for the HTC EVO 4G's homescreen, and the settings allow users to hide any app from appearing in the drawer. Launcher Pro can be downloaded from the Android Market.

• Rooting your HTC EVO 4G, or any Android phone, carries serious risks. Before attempting to root, understand that you may temporarily or permanently damage your phone's software, and in most cases the repair will not be covered under your wireless carrier or manufacturer warranty.

References

• Android Market: ES File Explorer
• Android Market: Launcher Pro