Find Lost & Unused Apps on your iPad

Introduction

Over time, it’s easy to lose track of apps on your iPad. You install something for a specific task, stop using it, and months later you’re not even sure if it’s still there. Fortunately, iPadOS includes several simple tools that help you find apps quickly and identify ones you no longer use. Knowing where to look can save time and help keep your iPad organized.

Finding Apps on Your iPad

If you’re not sure where an app is located, the first step is understanding the different places apps can appear. Apps may live on Home Screen pages, inside folders, or only in the App Library. Knowing this helps narrow down where to search and prevents unnecessary scrolling through pages.

Using Spotlight Search

Spotlight Search is often the fastest way to locate an app. By swiping down from the middle of the Home Screen, you can search by app name and launch it immediately. This is especially useful if you have many apps or don’t remember where an app is stored. Spotlight can also surface apps you haven’t opened in a while.

Using the App Library

The App Library automatically organizes all apps into categories and is located at the far right of your Home Screen pages. Even if an app is not visible on your Home Screen, it will always appear in the App Library. This makes it a reliable place to find apps you may have removed from view but not deleted.

Finding Unused Apps

Sometimes the goal isn’t just finding an app, but deciding whether you still need it. iPadOS can show apps you haven’t used recently, helping you identify ones that may no longer be necessary. This is a helpful step if your Home Screen feels cluttered or storage space is running low.

Sorting Apps by Last Used

Within storage settings, apps can be sorted by when they were last used. This gives you a clear picture of which apps are actively used and which have been sitting unused for weeks or months. Sorting this way makes it easier to decide which apps to keep and which ones can be removed.

Wrap Up

Finding lost or unused apps doesn’t have to be frustrating. By using Spotlight Search, the App Library, and sorting apps by last used, you can quickly locate what you need and clean up what you don’t. These tools make it easier to stay organized and keep your iPad working the way you want.