What is a preinstalled app?

A preinstalled app is an app that comes preloaded on a device, either during manufacturing or by the device’s carrier. These apps are typically installed in the device’s system partition, making them unremovable by the end-user without some form of modifications.

Preinstalled apps can come in many shapes and sizes. On Android devices, Google apps such as Google Maps, Gmail, and Google Drive are preinstalled. In addition, there may be carrier-specific apps, such as a branded weather app, or manufacturer-specific apps, such as Samsung’s Bixby.

While some preinstalled apps are deemed essential and can add value to the user’s experience, such as mapping or antivirus apps, many of these apps can be considered “bloatware,” that can slow down the device, and reduce the battery life. Because these apps are pre-installed, users may not be able to uninstall them easily, particularly without root access or a connection to a computer.

How to remove a preinstalled app on Android without a computer

While the easiest way to remove a preinstalled app on Android is through a computer, there is a way to remove it without one. Please note that these steps may vary slightly depending on the version of Android installed on the device.

Here are the steps to remove a preinstalled app on Android without a computer:

1. Open the app drawer: Swipe up from the bottom of the screen to open the app drawer.

2. Find the app you want to remove: Scroll through the apps until you find the preinstalled app you want to remove.

3. Long-press the app icon: Tap and hold the app icon until a menu appears.

4. Select App Info: The app info window will appear with details about the app.

5. Click Uninstall: Tap the Uninstall button at the top of the window.

6. Confirm the action: Select OK when prompted to confirm uninstallation.

7. Repeat steps 2-6 for any additional preinstalled apps you wish to remove.

Note: Some preinstalled apps may be protected by the device’s admin privileges or may require the user to have root access to completely remove them.

In some cases, if you are unable to completely uninstall a preinstalled app, it may still be possible to disable it instead. Disabling the app will prevent it from running and taking up storage space. To disable a preinstalled app, follow the same steps outlined above and select Disable instead of Uninstall.

FAQs

1. Can all preinstalled apps be removed?
No, some preinstalled apps are deemed essential and cannot be uninstalled without rooting the device or without connecting it to a computer.

2. What is rooting, and how does it help to remove preinstalled apps?
Rooting is the process of gaining privileged access to the device’s operating system. It allows the user to access system files that are normally restricted on the device, including preinstalled apps. With root access, the user can remove any pre-installed apps, but rooting a device comes with risks of voiding your warranty or rendering the device useless if performed improperly.

3. Is it safe to remove preinstalled apps that I don’t need?
Removing pre-installed apps that are deemed “bloatware” from your device can increase storage space, improve device performance, and extend the battery life. However, it’s critical to avoid removing apps that are necessary for the device to function correctly or allow online features on which other apps depend.

4. How can I delete preinstalled apps if my Android device isn’t rooted, and I don’t have access to a computer?
The best option is to disable the app rather than delete it. This process can be accomplished by going to your phone’s app settings, then selecting the app you want to disable and then clicking Uninstall Updates->Disable. Doing so will uninstall any updates and permanently disable the app.

Conclusion:

Preinstalled apps come with both benefits and drawbacks. These apps can provide essential services like navigation, antivirus protection, or digital camera functions, but too many bloatware apps can bog down performance and reduce battery life.

While avoiding pre-installed apps altogether may not be realistic, it is possible to remove or disable them. Rooting your device or using a computer provides the most direct option. However, for those who prefer not to needlessly violate their warranty, we recommend disabling apps not needed, as it is relatively easy to do in the app settings.

Ultimately, the decision on whether or not to remove pre-installed apps largely depends on the user’s preference and their device’s needs. By taking the time to evaluate which apps you use and which ones you never use, you can make the most of the features of your device without bogging it down with unnecessary apps.