Uninstalling apps like Hotstar from your Google TV Streamer 4K or any Android TV-based device is often necessary if you’re running low on space or just want to tidy up. Sometimes, apps can get stuck or refuse to uninstall properly, especially if they’re pre-installed or have some system restrictions. This guide walks through two practical ways to get rid of Hotstar — whether you’re just doing some housecleaning or troubleshooting weird issues.

How to Uninstall Hotstar from Google TV

Method 1: Using the Apps Tab

This method is the quickest if you already see the app in your list. It’s super straightforward, just navigating through your device’s interface. Sometimes, the app might show up in the list, but uninstalling it doesn’t always go smoothly. Keep in mind, on some setups, the uninstall button might be grayed out if it’s a system app or has certain restrictions. In those cases, you might need other tricks.

  1. Go to the Apps section on your Google TV home screen. You can usually find it by opening the Apps drawer or pressing the Home button and then selecting Apps.
  2. Scroll down to find the Hotstar app. Sometimes it’s hiding among other streaming apps.
  3. Press and hold the OK or Select button on your remote while Hotstar is highlighted. Or, if your remote supports it, press the menu or options key to bring up contextual options.
  4. Pick View Details or a similar menu option. The exact wording depends on your device.
  5. Inside the app info page, choose Uninstall. If that’s not available, it might be a system app, and you’ll need to try other methods.

This approach works well when everything is straightforward. Just be aware that if Hotstar was pre-installed (baked into the firmware), you might not be able to actually uninstall it here. You’d then have to disable it or use ADB commands, which is a whole other story.

Method 2: Via the Settings Menu

This one is the more “deep dive” approach. It’s the way to go if you want to see all your installed apps in one place or if the app isn’t showing up properly in the Apps tab.

  1. From the home screen, head to the top right corner and click on the Settings gear icon.
  2. Scroll down and select Apps.
  3. Click on See All Apps. This will show you a complete list of everything installed, including system apps.
  4. Scroll to find Hotstar in the list. Sometimes it helps to type in the search bar if your device supports it.
  5. Select Hotstar, then choose Uninstall. Confirm the action if prompted by pressing OK.

Keep in mind, some devices or apps might not let you uninstall if they’re considered part of the core system. In those cases, options might be to disable the app, which is almost as good for freeing up space and removing clutter.

Extra Tips & Common Troubles

Sometimes, uninstalling doesn’t go as smooth as expected. Here’s what worked for a few folks:

  • Make sure your device is running the latest Android TV OS. Firmware updates can fix bugs and restrictions that prevent app removal.
  • If Hotstar refuses to uninstall or disable, a restart often helps. Power off your device, then power it back on and try again.
  • Need a more forceful approach? You can use aADB commands to remove stubborn apps if you’re comfortable with command line stuff.

Wrap-up

Uninstalling Hotstar is a pretty simple process, but sometimes, it’s not that straightforward if the app is deeply integrated. The main tools are navigating through the Apps tab or the Settings menu. If you’re stuck with an app that just won’t go away, some folks have had luck disabling instead of uninstalling, or resorting to ADB tricks.

Hopefully, this saves someone a little headache and clears some space for better streaming or gaming. Sometimes it’s just about getting rid of the clutter, right?

Summary

  • Access Apps via home screen or Settings to find Hotstar.
  • Try uninstalling directly, but be prepared for the possibility of needing to disable apps instead.
  • Restart your device if things don’t seem to work initially.
  • For stubborn apps, consider using ADB commands or exploring device-specific forums.