How to remove bloatware from your Android device? A step-by-step guide

Removing smartphone bloatware: Smartphone manufacturers frequently preload new Android devices with a variety of applications, often known as 'bloatware.' These can range from entertainment apps like Netflix to games such as Candy Crush Saga, many of which users may find unnecessary or irrelevant.

While certain bloatware apps can be readily uninstalled, others are integrated into the system and cannot be entirely removed. Nevertheless, users have the option to disable these apps, preventing them from operating in the background and consuming system resources. Here's a concise guide to help you manage unwanted applications on your Android device.

Steps to remove or disable unwanted apps

Access device settings: Navigate to the 'Settings' menu on your Android device. You can do this by either locating the Settings app in your app drawer or tapping the gear icon that appears in the notifications panel after swiping down once or twice, depending on your device.

Go to apps section: Within the Settings menu, scroll down and select 'Apps.'

View all installed apps: On newer Android devices, you will typically find a 'See all apps' option. Selecting this will display a comprehensive list of all installed applications on your device.

Search for specific apps: Once the list populates, you can scroll through to locate a specific app you wish to manage. Alternatively, utilise the search function located at the top right corner of the screen for quicker access.

Display system apps: If you cannot find system apps initially, tap on the three-dot menu icon usually located at the top right corner of the screen. From the dropdown menu, select 'Show system apps' to reveal the integrated system applications.

Manage the selected app: Upon selecting an app from the list, you'll be directed to a new screen offering options to either uninstall or disable the application. If uninstallation is not an option due to it being a system app, you can choose to disable it, preventing it from running in the background.

Keep your device safe

Attempting to remove system apps using third-party tools can be risky. Doing so may result in unintended consequences, potentially rendering your device inoperable. Exercise caution and avoid disabling or uninstalling system apps that are crucial for the proper functioning of your Android device.