Purchasing a smartphone often means receiving a device loaded with numerous pre-installed applications. While some of these apps are helpful, others just take up space without providing any real benefits. The issue becomes even more irritating when personal data sharing comes into play. Thankfully, some governments have started taking action against this common practice among phone manufacturers.

India’s Stand Against Pre-installed Apps

Recent reports indicate that the Indian government is making a significant move to eliminate pre-installed apps from mobile phones. A new security policy is being planned, which will enforce substantial operating system changes. This policy shift will compel manufacturers to reconsider their pre-installed apps, and the Indian Standards Bureau will also perform compatibility tests on new smartphone models.

Moreover, the Indian government intends to closely examine major operating system updates. Smartphone manufacturers have been given a one-year deadline to comply with these new rules. After this grace period, companies will have to remove default apps that users cannot uninstall from their devices.

Brands like Samsung, Apple, and Vivo are expected to be most affected by this change. In contrast, Xiaomi is believed to face minimal impact. The Chinese company reportedly has only eight non-removable apps on its smartphones, all serving essential functions. These apps include Phone, SMS, Contacts, File Manager, Settings, App Store, Internet Browser, and Camera.

India’s decision will ultimately save users from dealing with unnecessary pre-installed apps on their devices. It is hoped that this policy will be adopted by other countries in the near future. What do you think about pre-installed apps on smartphones? We’d love to hear your thoughts, so please share them in the comments section.