If you have recently restored your device or if you updated a large number of apps at the same time, then you may experience issues with deleting or opening the app on your iOS device. This can cause apps to become stuck in a 'waiting' state.
Here’s how you can handle a stuck 'waiting' app:
1. Pause & Resume
Tap the stuck app icon - this toggles between pause and resume and often kick-starts the download again.
2. Toggle Airplane Mode
Turn Airplane Mode on and off: this resets network connections and can clear the blockage.
3. Restart Your Device
A standard or force restart refreshes system processes and interrupts stuck states.
4. Check Your Internet Connection
Switch between Wi‑Fi and cellular or reboot your router to ensure a stable connection.
5. Free Up Storage
Make sure you have sufficient space by going to Settings → General → iPhone/iPad Storage. Delete unused items if needed
6. Delete & Reinstall
If stuck in 'waiting', delete the app (long-press > Remove App), then re-download it from the App Store. If you can’t delete it normally, go to Settings → General → iPhone/iPad Storage, find the app, and delete from there.
7. Sign Out/Re‑sign In to App Store
Log out: Settings → [Your Name] → Media & Purchases → Sign Out, then sign back in. This refreshes your account status.
8. Reset Network Settings
Go to Settings → General → Transfer or Reset iPhone/iPad → Reset → Reset Network Settings. (You’ll need to re-enter Wi‑Fi passwords.)
9. Update iOS
Ensure your device software is current: Settings → General → Software Update. Many bugs get resolved this way.
If you're unable to delete an app on your iPhone or iPad (for example, the "Remove App" option is missing, greyed out, or unresponsive), here are the troubleshooting steps that may help to resolve the issue:
1. Check for Restrictions (Screen Time Settings)
Some apps can't be deleted if deletion is restricted: Go to Settings → Screen Time.
Tap Content & Privacy Restrictions → Enter your Screen Time passcode (if prompted). Tap iTunes & App Store Purchases. Tap Deleting Apps and ensure it’s set to Allow.
2. Try Deleting via iPhone/iPad Storage
This bypasses the Home Screen: go to Settings → General → iPhone/iPad Storage, find the app, and delete from there.
3. Restart Your Device
A simple restart often resolves system glitches.
On Face ID devices: Press and hold the Side + Volume Up (or Down) buttons, then slide to power off.
On Home button models: Hold the Power (Top or Side) button until you see “slide to power off.”
Wait a few seconds, then turn your device back on.
4. Update iOS
Ensure your device software is current: Settings → General → Software Update. Many bugs get resolved this way.