Purpose of "Downloads" App? Uninstallable without side effect?

[pstein]

When I look into my new SmartPhone I found a "Downloads" App?

For what kind of Downloads do I need this App?

Downloads through Chrome browser are handled by Chrome App.
Downloads by Google Play are handled by Play Store App
Downloads by email are handled by E-Mail App.

So which Downloads are handled by NO other App?

Can I un-install (or at least de-activate) it without side effect to other Apps?

 

[funkylogik]

It seems to just be a shortcut to the phone's download folder. Not sure if its safe to disable but it but why?

 

[Omar Days]

Why would you wanna get rid?

When I download files from any app including gmail and chrome, they end up in the downloads app. Pretty handy if you ask me, especially if I download something and I'm too busy to check it right away. I just go to the Downloads app and voila, there they are.

 

[John Bean]

Exactly, I often use it for downloads even though I have a "proper" file manager - it's quick and simple for the single task it's designed for.

On my phone it's only 72k (!) so what possible benefit is there from removing it?

 

[funkylogik]

I just use an ES shortcut to downloads folder but yeah its harmless

 

[UncleMike]

One thing to note is that the Downloads app isn't simply a shortcut to the Downloads folder. I've noticed that it doesn't show everything in the folder - specifically, anything I choose to download using ES File Explorer doesn't show up.