Five unwanted apps removed from each Samsung Galaxy device.

For over 14 years, I've had the privilege of testing and reviewing various Samsung models. One issue that consistently arises is the presence of unwanted pre-installed applications, which clutter the device's interface. As Samsung shifts towards integrating Google services by default, it's essential to know what apps can be safely removed or disabled on new Galaxy devices.

Purchasing a brand-new Galaxy S26 Ultra is an exciting experience, but the reality sets in once you start exploring its features: numerous pre-installed applications take up valuable storage space.

Unwanted apps often get uninstalled or disabled, yet a few Samsung features are similarly unnecessary, making it reasonable to remove them as well.

For over 14 years, I've had the privilege of testingand reviewing various Samsung models. Oneissue that consistently arises is the presence of unwanted pre-installed applications, which clutter the device's interface. As Samsung shifts towards integrating Google services by default, it's essential to know what apps can be safely removed or disabled on new Galaxy devices.

Samsung TV Plus has been offering free, ad-supported TV and movies for years, yet its appeal remains elusive to me. A vast library of old content, sourced from numerous other apps and streaming services, makes it redundant in many ways.

The Samsung TV Plus app is often pre-installed on Galaxy phones and TVs, yet its presence can be redundant. Fortunately, users don't need to provide payment information or log in to access its content, although the quality of programming and advertising are underwhelming. Removing this app won't leave a void, as there's no significant loss.

A single mobile browser suffices for most users' needs, much like a solitary keyboard or phone dialer application. Although Samsung's Internet app provides a satisfactory browsing experience, many prefer the functionality offered by Google Chrome on their Galaxy devices.

Samsung Galaxy devices no longer bundle five additional features by default, freeing up storage space for users to install their preferred apps instead.

Samsung Internet may be satisfactory in terms of speed and customization options, yet its performance falls short compared to other browsers due to shared Chromium roots. This browser can likely be omitted without consequence.

Samsung annually introduces new handsets while highlighting its commitment to sustainability through renewable energy goals and clean product initiatives. The company pre-installs the Samsung Global Goals humanitarian app on its devices, which I've occasionally accessed for exploration purposes. Users are ultimately prompted to contribute to specific programs via the app's donation feature.

It's peculiar how these solicitations persist. The intention behind them is to contribute to charitable initiatives through donations or by watching ads that reward users for their time. Every shopping trip to stores like Walmart and various locations prompts a request to round up or donate, which I sometimes comply with. However seeing such requests on my new phone was an unexpected experience.

Donating to a worthy cause is always appreciated, but consider freeing up your phone's storage first by removing unwanted software from your Samsung Galaxy device.

On my Samsung Galaxy phones, one of the first apps to go is "Tips," essentially a centralized platform where Samsung disseminates information about the device's capabilities and software updates.

For those transitioning from an iPhone or Pixel to a new smartphone, this feature may offer some assistance. However if you've previously owned a Samsung Galaxy phone, it's likely unnecessary. The fact that the Galaxy Store displays screenshots of One UI 6 is particularly misleading, given that we're currently running on One UI 8.5 and preparing for One UI 9.

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New smartphone owners can discover exciting Galaxy features by visiting thecomprehensive resource at 's websiteregularly.

Personal preferences play a significant role in determining which apps to use daily or quickly uninstall. A writer on our team has a strong affinity for Samsung Notes and relies on it more than other office applications. The majority of users, however, are already deeply invested in either Google's suite, Microsoft's offerings, or alternatives like Google Keep.

Samsung's default note-taking app falls short in terms of features compared to industry leaders such as Google Keep and Evernote. Its utility is largely limited to users who heavily utilize the S-Pen on high-end devices like the Galaxy S26 Ultra or older Note series models.

Unwanted software manifests itself in various ways, including extraneous Microsoft programs, duplicate Samsung applications, video games that serve no purpose, and a growing plethora of mobile operator apps from T-Mobile, Verizon and AT&T.

When setting up a new Samsung Galaxy phone, I make it a point to eliminate at least five unnecessary applications right away, along with any carrier-installed software that's not essential.

The Samsung Members app remains on my device for beta sign-ups and issue diagnosis, as well as a compact user forum. In contrast, I remove nearly all other installed software to declutter my system. If an app can't be uninstalled, disabling it conceals its presence in the app tray. After cleaning up, consider installing these open-source apps that are worth having.