FB20295480: Support for reverting app-initiated changes when an app is uninstalled #730
Description
Submission Date
2025-09-18
Status
Open
Area
Filesystem
Operating System Version
macOS 26.0
Type
Suggestion
Description
Provide a system-owned mechanism for apps to declare changes they’ve made (to preferences, system behaviors, or internal support data) so those changes can be reverted or cleaned up when the app is uninstalled.
Currently, deleting an app by moving it to the trash does not undo any system modifications or delete internal files that the app created. This can leave users with lingering side effects. For example:
- altered trackpad or keyboard behaviors (gestures, function key settings)
- changed Finder or Dock preferences (hidden files, hot corners, auto-hide)
- background items or support files that no longer make sense once the app is gone
- enormous caches left behind
Example: My app uses the two-finger-swipe-from-the-edge gesture, which clashes with the Notification Center gesture. We offer a way to disable the NC gesture. If my app is later uninstalled, users would be left wondering why the system gesture no longer works.
Example: the Zoom app comes bundled with an uninstaller that does god knows what when it runs. I would wager that zero people use that option and drag Zoom to the trash, leaving behind whatever that uninstaller removes.
A declarative, OS-managed mechanism for cleanup would improve platform hygiene, reduce user confusion, and let developers be good citizens without shipping separate uninstallers.
Keywords
No response
Prerequisites
- The title follows the format
FB<number>: <title> - I will keep this issue updated with Apple's responses