To save storage on your Android device, you can archive specific apps when not in regular use. When an app is archived, your device removes its software, permissions, temporary files and stops notifications, but retains the app icon and data.
You can manually archive apps as needed or let supporting app stores automatically archive apps that aren't used regularly. You can also prevent apps from being archived when not in regular use and restore apps that have been archived.
Important: Some of these steps work only on Android 15 and up. Learn how to check your Android version.Archive an app manually
To manually archive an app:
- On your Android device, open Settings
Apps.
- Select the name of the app that you want to archive.
- Tap Archive.
Apps.Tips:
- When an app is archived, its icon will be dimmed out and an archiving icon will be placed on top.
- You can restore an archived app at any time.
- The app store must be installed on the device and the app must still be available to download in the app store.
- To free up space automatically, you can opt into automatic app archiving in the Play Store. Learn how to automatically archive an app.
Unarchive an app
If you want to use an app again:
- On your Android device, select the faded app icon on your home screen.
- To reinstall, tap the app.
Tips:
- If your device doesn't have enough storage to reinstall the app, you'll be asked to manage your storage.
- If you can't find an app icon on your device, it might have been deleted. Learn how to reinstall and re-enable apps.
- You can also unarchive an app from the 'App info' page in Settings or the 'App details' page in the Play Store app.
Block an app from being archived
If you opt in to automatic app archiving in the Play Store and don't want an unused app to be archived automatically:
- On your Android device, open Settings
- Select the app that you want to block from automatic archiving.
- Turn off Manage app if unused.
Tip: You can still manually archive any app on your device.