GoKawiilSamsung Galaxy bloatware still can't be fully removed, but workarounds persist
Samsung Galaxy phones continue to ship with preinstalled apps that users cannot uninstall outright. Owners can instead disable, hide, or mute notifications for unwanted apps through the Settings menu, though these steps don't delete the apps or free up storage. Core apps such as Phone, Messages, Contacts, Gallery and My Files remain permanently fixed on the device.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The persistence of this limitation in 2026 suggests Samsung still prioritizes its own bundled software and partner agreements over giving users full control of their devices. For users concerned about storage space or privacy, the available fixes are only partial, meaning the underlying issue - permissions and disk space still tied up by hidden apps - remains unresolved.
- Preinstalled Samsung apps can often be disabled or hidden, but not deleted
- Disabling or hiding apps does not free up storage or revoke permissions
- Core apps like Phone and Messages can never be removed from Galaxy devices
Samsung Galaxy S24 Smartphone — If you're wrestling with bloatware and storage issues on an older Galaxy, it might be time to upgrade to Samsung's latest flagship with more built-in storage and a cleaner One UI experience. The Galaxy S24 lets you manage apps more efficiently while giving you plenty of room for the apps you actually want.
See Samsung Galaxy S24 Smartphone on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: engadget.com — Husain Parvez, 2026-11-02
Published there as: “This Samsung Galaxy problem sadly still exists in 2026, but you can easily fix it”
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