Is There a Way to Delete the Apple News App in Big Sur?
The Big Sur update brought a wave of aesthetic and functional changes to the macOS experience. From the redesigned interface to the upgraded features, Apple aimed to enhance user interaction. However, for some users, the revamped system came with its share of quirks, including the persistent presence of the Apple News app.
Many users found the Apple News app to be an unwelcome addition, cluttering their Dock and offering a service they weren't interested in. The question then arises: Can we actually remove the Apple News app from our Big Sur Macs?
The answer, unfortunately, is a resounding no. Apple News, like other core apps on macOS, is deeply integrated into the system and cannot be removed through traditional app deletion methods. This is not entirely surprising, as Apple aims to provide a streamlined experience for users and maintain consistency across its ecosystem.
Why is this a problem?
The inability to delete the Apple News app might seem like a minor inconvenience, but it can have real implications for users:
- Cluttered Interface: The app occupies space on the Dock, which can be especially irksome for users with a preference for minimalist aesthetics.
- Storage Space: Even if it's not being actively used, the app consumes storage space on your hard drive, potentially adding up over time.
- Unwanted Notifications: Users who are not interested in news updates might find the app's notifications intrusive and disruptive.
Is There Any Way to Hide or Disable it?
While you cannot delete the Apple News app, you can certainly minimize its presence:
- Remove it from the Dock: You can easily remove the Apple News app from the Dock by right-clicking on its icon and selecting "Options" then "Remove from Dock." This will keep the app installed but remove its visual presence from your desktop.
- Disable Notifications: To prevent unwanted notifications, go to System Preferences > Notifications and locate "Apple News." Here, you can toggle off the notifications, preventing the app from interrupting your workflow.
- Hide it from the Launchpad: The Launchpad houses all your installed apps. To hide the Apple News app from the Launchpad, navigate to System Preferences > Dock & Menu Bar and uncheck the box for "Show Launchpad in Dock."
The Alternative: Third-Party News Apps
If you're not keen on using Apple News, you can always explore alternative news apps available on the Mac App Store. There are many excellent options, each offering its own unique features and user experience. You can explore apps like:
- Feedly: A popular RSS reader that aggregates news from various sources.
- Flipboard: A visually appealing app that presents news in a magazine-style format.
- Pocket: An app for saving articles to read later.
- NewsBlur: A customizable news reader with various features for filtering and organizing news.
Conclusion:
While Apple News remains an integral part of Big Sur, its stubborn persistence can be frustrating for users who prefer a personalized experience. While complete removal is impossible, we can manage its presence through simple methods like hiding it from the Dock and disabling notifications. If you're not a fan of Apple News, exploring alternative news apps is always a viable option, allowing you to curate your news experience with greater control.
FAQs
Q1: Is there any way to completely remove the Apple News app without third-party tools?
A1: No, Apple News is deeply integrated into Big Sur and cannot be removed without using third-party software. You can only hide or disable its features.
Q2: Will Apple ever allow users to delete the Apple News app?
A2: It is unlikely that Apple will ever allow users to completely delete core apps like Apple News. This is because Apple aims to maintain consistency across its ecosystem and ensure users have access to essential apps.
Q3: Is the Apple News app really that bad?
A3: The Apple News app is a perfectly usable news aggregator. However, some users find its interface and features underwhelming compared to other available options.
Q4: What are some of the best alternative news apps for Mac?
A4: Some popular alternatives to Apple News include Feedly, Flipboard, Pocket, and NewsBlur.
Q5: Can I use the Apple News app to access news from different countries?
A5: Yes, the Apple News app offers news from various countries and regions, allowing you to stay informed about global events.