A comprehensive guide to pre-installed unwanted programs: their types, impact on devices, and safe removal methods across different operating systems.
Why a New Device Isn’t Completely ‘Clean’
When purchasing a new smartphone or computer, we often expect a blank slate, but the reality is different: the screen is filled with apps you never downloaded and don’t plan to use. This software, technically referred to as „bloatware” or colloquially as „crapware,” is pre-installed at the behest of manufacturers, carriers, or partners. While it may seem like added value at first glance, these programs often waste system resources, take up valuable space, and even pose privacy risks.
The main reasons manufacturers stuff devices with this software are commercial. It serves as an additional revenue stream—third-party developers (e.g., antivirus programs or games) pay manufacturers to include their products. It is also a way to tie users to a specific ecosystem (e.g., Samsung or Apple services) or, in the case of carriers, to promote paid services. Identifying bloatware is not difficult: these are programs you did not install, often duplicating system functions, and cannot be removed via the standard „Uninstall” method.
From Harmless Tools to Aggressive Ads
Not all pre-installed software is the same. It is important to distinguish between what is simply useless and what is potentially harmful.
Adware
This is the most intrusive category. These programs are designed to display ads—pop-ups, notifications, or banners. They often disguise themselves as „useful” tools, such as weather forecasts or news feeds, but their true purpose is to collect user data and generate revenue from ad displays.
Trialware
Commonly found on Windows computers. These are antivirus programs (e.g., McAfee, Norton) or office suites that operate for free for a limited time (e.g., 30 days). After the trial period ends, they remain on the system, continue to use resources, and constantly remind users of the need to pay, even if the user is already using another solution.
Manufacturer and Carrier Tools
These are specific apps designed to manage the device or promote services. While some tools (e.g., driver update centers) are useful, many others (e.g., redundant galleries, voice assistants, carrier self-service portals) simply duplicate what Android or iOS already does better.
Where is the Bloatware Problem Most Acute?
Android Ecosystem
Here, the problem is the most significant. Due to the open-source nature of the system, each manufacturer (Samsung, Xiaomi, Sony) installs its user interface with a plethora of its own apps. Additionally, if the phone is purchased from a carrier (e.g., Telia, Bitė), it may also have specific carrier apps. The result is a phone with two browsers, two galleries, two calendar apps, and a bunch of game links.
Windows Computers
Windows (especially Home versions) also suffers from commercial agreements. The Start menu often contains links to TikTok, Instagram, Disney+, or Candy Crush. Manufacturers (HP, Lenovo, Dell) add their diagnostic tools and trial antivirus programs, which often start with the system and slow down the computer’s performance.
iOS and macOS
Apple’s policy is stricter—third-party bloatware is almost non-existent here. However, users still encounter „first-party” unwanted apps. For example, if you don’t use Stocks, Tips, or GarageBand, they still take up space on your device, although they are not as aggressive as adware on other systems.
Benefits for Performance, Battery, and Privacy
Getting rid of bloatware is worthwhile not just for aesthetics. It has tangible technical benefits:
- Increased Speed: Fewer background processes mean that the processor and RAM can be allocated to tasks that are actually important to you. This is especially noticeable on budget devices.
- Battery Saving: Every unnecessary app running in the background, syncing data, or using location drains battery. Removing them can significantly extend operating time.
- Freeing Up Memory: Pre-installed apps can take up hundreds of megabytes to several gigabytes. This is particularly relevant for phones with 64 GB or 128 GB of memory.
- Privacy Protection: Many manufacturer apps collect telemetry data about your usage habits. By removing these apps, you reduce the amount of data sent to remote servers without your knowledge.
Instructions for Android, Windows, iOS, and macOS Users
Android Devices
The first step is to check if the app can be removed through settings (Settings > Apps). If the „Uninstall” button is inactive, you can often select „Disable”. This stops the app from running in the background and hides it, although the files remain on the device.
A more advanced method without root access is to use ADB (Android Debug Bridge).
- Enable „Developer Options” and „USB Debugging” on your phone.
- Connect the phone to your computer and install ADB tools.
- Using the command
adb shell pm list packages, find the package name of the app you want to remove. - Enter the command:
adb shell pm uninstall --user 0. This will remove the app for the current user.
An alternative is to use the automated tool „Universal Android Debloater” (UAD), which provides a user-friendly graphical interface for these actions.
Windows Systems
Most apps can be removed through Settings > Apps > Installed Apps. However, integrated Microsoft apps (e.g., Xbox Game Bar, News) may require PowerShell or special tools.
A recommended tool is „O&O AppBuster”. It is free, requires no installation, and allows you to view and remove both user and system apps in one window. Another option is to use the PowerShell command: Get-AppxPackage *app_name* | Remove-AppxPackage.
iOS (iPhone/iPad)
Apple allows the deletion of most of its integrated apps (e.g., Stocks, Music, Mail) simply by pressing and holding the icon and selecting „Remove App” > „Delete App”.
If you want to free up space but keep the data, use the „Offload App” feature (Settings > General > iPhone Storage). This deletes the app itself but leaves its documents and settings intact.
macOS Computers
Most apps can be deleted by simply dragging them to the Trash or through Launchpad (by pressing and holding the Option key). However, system apps (e.g., Safari, Mail) cannot be removed without complex manipulations with system protections (SIP), and it is not recommended to do so. Instead, check System Settings > General > Login Items and disable unnecessary programs that start automatically.
What to Do to Avoid Damaging the System
While removing bloatware is beneficial, there is a risk of deleting a component necessary for system stability.
- Don’t Be Too Aggressive: Avoid removing programs whose purpose you do not know. For example, removing certain Google services on an Android phone may disrupt notifications or location services.
- Backups: Before using ADB or PowerShell scripts, make sure to back up important data or create a system restore point („Windows System Restore Point”).
- Avoid Root and Jailbreak: In most cases, fully unlocking the system is not necessary to clear bloatware. This can void warranties and create security vulnerabilities (e.g., banking apps may stop working).
- Alternative to Deletion: If you are unsure about the safety of removing an app, simply disable or hide it. This neutralizes its impact on resources without risking system stability.
Need help with your device?
If your phone, computer, or tablet is not working properly, bring it to Fiksas. We perform fast diagnostics and often complete repairs within 1–3 hours.