How to Remove Game Store on HP Chromebook x360: A Step-by-Step Guide

Are you finding the Game Store on your HP Chromebook x360 to be more of a distraction than a source of entertainment? Whether it’s due to excessive notifications, unwanted in-app purchases, or simply your preference for a minimalistic interface, you may want to know how to remove the Game Store from your device. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to effectively remove the Game Store from your HP Chromebook x360.

Step 1: Access the Game Store

Before you begin the removal process, make sure you know how to access the Game Store on your HP Chromebook x360. Typically, you can open it by clicking on the launcher (the circle icon in the bottom-left corner of the screen) and locating the Game Store among your installed applications.

Step 2: Uninstalling the Game Store App

Open the App Drawer: Click the launcher icon again and navigate to the “Apps” section to find the Game Store.
Find the Game Store: Scroll through the list of applications until you locate the Game Store.
Right-Click on the Game Store Icon: To initiate the uninstallation process, right-click on the Game Store icon. If you are using a touchpad, you can simulate a right-click by tapping with two fingers or by pressing the Alt key while tapping.
Select “Uninstall” or “Remove from Chrome”: A context menu will appear. Click on “Uninstall” or “Remove from Chrome” (the wording may vary slightly), depending on your version of Chrome OS.
Confirm Your Decision: You will likely be prompted with a confirmation dialog that asks if you’re sure you want to remove the app. Click “Uninstall” or “Remove” to finalize the decision.

Step 3: Clearing Up Space (Optional)

With the Game Store app uninstalled, you might consider performing some additional housekeeping to ensure that your Chromebook runs smoothly without any remnants of the deleted app.

Empty the Recycle Bin: Open the Files app on your Chromebook and locate the “Trash” or “Recycle Bin.” Right-click and choose “Empty Trash” to permanently delete the files.
Remove Unwanted Files and Programs: Browse through your downloaded files and delete any items that you no longer need. This helps free up space, ensuring that your device runs efficiently.
Check System Restore Settings: Though not commonly used on Chromebooks, it’s worth ensuring that your device isn’t restoring unnecessary data that you don’t need. You can manage settings through the system preferences.

Step 4: Managing App Permissions

Even after you uninstall the Game Store, you may want to check and manage the app permissions to ensure that no other applications are using permissions you’d prefer them not to.

Open Settings: Click on the bottom-right corner of your screen to open the status area, then click on the settings gear icon.
Navigate to Privacy and Security: In the settings menu, go to the “Privacy and security” section.
Click on Site Settings: Here, you can review and adjust which apps have permissions to access certain features like the camera, microphone, or location.
Manage Permissions as Needed: Adjust the settings to limit app permissions as per your preference, further minimizing distractions.

Step 5: Restart Your Chromebook

After you have gone through the process of uninstalling the Game Store and clearing up space, it’s a good idea to restart your Chromebook. This refreshes the system and ensures that all changes take effect properly.

Click on the Status Area: Located at the bottom-right of your screen to open up additional options.
Select “Power” Button: Click on the power icon to shut down your Chromebook. Wait a few moments, then turn it back on.

Conclusion

Removing the Game Store from your HP Chromebook x360 can be a straightforward process if you follow these step-by-step instructions. Whether you need a distraction-free environment to focus on work or simply want more storage space, the uninstallation of apps you no longer use is an effective solution. Regularly managing your applications, files, and settings can lead to a smoother and more organized computing experience. Enjoy your updated Chromebook without the Game Store!