How to Delete Home Screen Pages on iOS 15

Apple's iOS 15 introduced the ability to permanently delete entire Home screen pages, expanding upon the page-hiding feature first seen in iOS 14. This functionality allows users to declutter their devices by removing surplus layouts and scattered apps in bulk, without uninstalling the applications themselves. This guide details exactly how the page deletion process functions, step-by-step, and what happens to your data afterward.

How the Page Deletion Process Works

To delete a Home screen page on iOS 15, follow these steps:

  1. Enter Edit Mode: Tap and hold an empty area on your Home screen until the app icons begin to jiggle.
  2. Open the Page Manager: Tap the page indicator dots located just above the dock at the bottom of the screen. This action zooms out to display a grid view of all your current Home screen pages.
  3. Deselect the Page: Tap the checkmark icon beneath the page you wish to delete. Unchecking the box hides the page and reveals a minus (–) icon in its top-left corner.
  4. Delete the Page: Tap the minus (–) icon on the page preview.
  5. Confirm Removal: A prompt will appear asking for confirmation to remove the page. Tap Remove to finalize the deletion.
  6. Exit Edit Mode: Tap Done in the top-right corner, then tap Done again to return to the standard Home screen view.

What Happens to the Apps?

Deleting a Home screen page does not delete or uninstall the apps located on that page. It only deletes the visual layout.

All applications that were on the deleted page remain fully installed on your iPhone and remain accessible via the App Library, Spotlight Search, and Siri. Any app data, logins, and settings stay completely intact. If you want an app back on a visible Home screen later, you can simply drag it out of the App Library and drop it onto an existing page.

Key Rules and Limitations

  • Minimum Page Requirement: You cannot delete every page; your device requires at least one active Home screen page to remain visible.
  • Permanence: Unlike simply unchecking a page to hide it, using the minus (–) icon is permanent. You cannot "undo" the deletion to restore that exact custom layout of icons and widgets.