# Persistent Bloatware Issues on Samsung Galaxy Devices in 2026 Despite premium pricing, Samsung continues to bundle preinstalled software on its flagship smartphones. - **Source:** [Engadget - Technology News & Expert Reviews](https://brifing.si/source/16dd2da6-3eea-4d1e-b34f-45e846cdf037) - **Published:** 2026-11-02 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/c2bb51a1-95bd-48d8-b738-a2d44c233d0f ## Premium Hardware Clutter Users upgrading to the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, priced at $1,400, are encountering significant preloaded software. Unlike the Google Pixel experience, the Galaxy interface includes numerous applications that many users never open. This persistent issue occupies valuable storage space and creates an cluttered app drawer immediately upon the initial device setup. ## Historical Context of Bloatware The criticism regarding preinstalled software is not a recent development for Samsung. Back in 2013, the Galaxy S4 faced backlash because its 16GB storage capacity provided only 9.5GB of usable space due to system software and bundled apps. Despite evolving policies allowing app removal, the underlying issue of excessive clutter remains prevalent. ## Diverse Software Ecosystems Preinstalled apps vary significantly based on the specific Galaxy model, geographic region, and mobile carrier. Common inclusions often feature Samsung-branded tools like Samsung Shop, TV Plus, and Global Goals. Additionally, third-party applications such as Spotify, LinkedIn, and OneDrive are frequently bundled, which may be redundant for users already committed to competing cloud ecosystems. ## Recent Amazon Music Integration In July 2026, Samsung formalized an agreement to preinstall Amazon Music on specific Galaxy phones and tablets. This partnership includes a three-month free trial for new subscribers, which automatically transitions to a paid subscription if not cancelled. This development highlights how corporate partnerships continue to influence the software composition of consumer devices. ## Direct Removal and Uninstallation Users can reclaim storage by manually removing unwanted applications. By swiping up to the app list and long-pressing an icon, users can select the uninstall option if available. Alternatively, navigating to Settings and the Apps menu allows for a more comprehensive management of installed software, effectively freeing up occupied device storage space. ## Disabling System-Level Applications Certain preinstalled apps cannot be fully uninstalled from the device. In these instances, users can select the Disable option within the app settings menu. This action prevents the application from running in the background and hides its icon, although the underlying files remain stored on the device until the user manually enables them. ## Managing Hidden App Notifications For apps that cannot be disabled, users can hide icons from the Home screen via the settings menu. To prevent these hidden apps from sending unwanted alerts, users must navigate to Settings, Notifications, and App notifications. Disabling the Allow notifications toggle ensures that these background applications do not disrupt the user experience. ## Strategic Limitations and Precautions While hiding apps cleans the interface, it does not revoke permissions or free up storage. Users should exercise caution and avoid disabling core system services like Phone, Messages, or Gallery, as these are essential for device functionality. Menu options may vary based on specific software versions, requiring users to verify their device settings. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.engadget.com/2300355/samsung-galaxy-phones-bloatware-problem-easy-fix/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._