Bloatware means apps that come preinstalled on a new PC or phone and that many owners never chose. Windows uninstalls most of them from Settings or Control Panel. Android uninstalls apps you installed and disables some system apps. Scan with Windows Security when an app behaves like malware instead of a normal app.
You switch on a new laptop or phone and find apps you never installed. Some use storage and some show up in menus every day.
This guide explains bloatware in plain words and shows the official steps to remove or disable it on Windows and Android.
What is Bloatware?
Bloatware is the common name for preinstalled apps that come from the device maker or a carrier. No official definition exists, so this guide uses the common meaning.
Preinstalled apps take storage space. Some also start with the device and use memory in the background.
How do You Remove Bloatware in Windows?
Microsoft documents three paths to uninstall an app in Windows. See uninstalling apps and programs in Windows.
- Select Start, then Settings, then Apps and Installed apps.
- Find the app and select the More icon with three dots.
- Select Uninstall and follow the prompts.
You can also right click an app in the Start menu or use Programs and Features in Control Panel. Microsoft notes that some apps are built into Windows and cannot be uninstalled. Some apps do not appear in Settings and need Control Panel.
If an app misbehaves or fails to uninstall, see how to uninstall stubborn programs in Windows.
How do You Remove Bloatware on Android?
Google explains that you can uninstall apps you installed from the Play Store. Some system apps that came with your phone cannot be removed. On certain phones you can turn them off, which hides them from your app list. Your device maker can tell you how on your model. See Google guidance on managing apps.
- Open the Play Store and tap your profile icon.
- Go to Manage apps and device and then Manage.
- Select the app and choose Uninstall.
Android 13 and later also review unused apps. It can delete temporary files, revoke permissions and stop background activity for apps you do not use. You can review them under Apps, then Unused apps.
What should You Check Before You Remove an App?
- Search the app name. Confirm it is not a system component.
- Backup your data. Save files before you remove large sets of apps.
- Remove one at a time. Restart and test the device between removals.
This checklist is practical advice and not official guidance.
Is Every Unwanted App Bloatware?
No. Microsoft advises that you scan with Windows Security or your antivirus software to remove malware. Scan first when an app shows ads or opens unprompted.
For protection options see free antivirus software for Windows. For storage see free disk cleanup tools for Windows.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Bloatware?
Bloatware is the common name for preinstalled apps that many owners never chose. No official definition exists.
How do I Remove Bloatware From Windows 11?
Open Settings, go to Apps and Installed apps, select the three dots beside the app and choose Uninstall.
Can I Uninstall Every Preinstalled App?
No. Microsoft states that some apps are built into Windows. Google states that some Android system apps cannot be removed.
How do I Disable a System App on Android?
On certain phones you can turn off a system app, which hides it from your app list. Your device maker can explain the steps for your model.
Is Bloatware a Virus?
No. Bloatware is preinstalled software. Malware is different, so scan with Windows Security when an app behaves badly.
Key Takeaways
- Bloatware means preinstalled apps that many owners never chose.
- Windows uninstalls most apps from Settings or Control Panel.
- Android uninstalls apps you installed and disables some system apps.
- Some built in apps cannot be removed on either system.
- Scan for malware when an app shows ads or opens unprompted.
Sources and References
This guide follows Microsoft and Google documentation.
- Uninstall or Remove Apps and Programs in Windows (Microsoft Support) support.microsoft.com
- Delete, Disable and Manage Unused Apps on Android (Google Help) support.google.com