Why Do Most Android Phones Come With Pre-Installed Apps Which Cannot Be Uninstalled Either?

Almost all Android smartphones come packaged with pre-installed apps, often referred to as bloatware. These applications are often pre-loaded by manufacturers or carriers to enhance the user experience, promote specific services, or reduce development costs. However, many users find this practice frustrating, as some of these apps cannot be completely removed after installation. This article explores the reasons behind this practice and provides solutions for managing these pre-installed applications.

Manufacturer Partnerships

Phone manufacturers frequently enter into marketing agreements or revenue-sharing models with app developers and service providers to include their applications as part of the device's software package. In these partnerships, both parties benefit. The app developers see an increase in user engagement, and the phone manufacturers can offer additional features to enhance the user experience.

Carrier Agreements

Many Android devices sold through carriers come with pre-installed apps mandated by the carrier. These apps often include services such as messaging, streaming, and carrier-specific tools. This not only helps the carrier offer additional features to their subscribers but also allows the phone manufacturers to comply with the carrier's demands.

User Experience

Manufacturers may include certain apps to enhance the user experience or provide essential services. For example, apps for cloud storage, security, and device management are often included to help users get started with their devices. While these apps can be useful, some users find them unnecessary and would prefer to uninstall them.

Cost Reduction

By including pre-installed apps, manufacturers can significantly reduce costs associated with software development and support. Instead of developing their own solutions, they can rely on third-party apps, which are often more mature and feature-rich.

Limited Control

Some pre-installed apps are part of the system software and are integrated into the operating system. Users can disable these apps but may not be able to uninstall them entirely without rooting the device. Rooting a device involves gaining full access to system files and can void the device's warranty and introduce security risks.

Market Strategy

Including popular and well-known apps can make a device more appealing to potential buyers. These apps often attract early adopters and can help drive sales, especially if they are widely used and recognized.

Why Do Companies Pay for Pre-Installed Apps?

App companies typically pay phone manufacturers to pre-install their apps. This is because it serves as a very effective form of marketing and advertisement. When users encounter a new pre-installed app, they are likely to explore it, which increases the app's visibility and user base.

Here's how it works: When you purchase a new phone and find a pre-installed app, you might be curious about its function. Based on a survey, 30% of users uninstall the app, 50% keep it, and 20% don't even mind it. However, this percentage can vary depending on the app. The goal is to make the app attractive enough to keep users engaged and increase its popularity.

How to Uninstall Pre-Installed Apps on Android

Fortunately, you can uninstall bloatware (pre-installed apps) on any Android device without rooting it. All you need is an Android device, a PC, and a USB cable. First, ensure that you have the necessary tools such as UnichomeInfo's guide to guide you through the process. This guide will walk you through the steps to find and remove unwanted pre-installed apps.

To know more about what is bloatware and how to uninstall it, you can refer to our previous article: Understanding Bloatware and How to Avoid It.