A new smartphone on Android has just been unpacked, but half of the memory is already occupied? The reason for this pre-installed apps is the so-called bloater (from English bloatware), which manufacturers install to promote their services or under contract with partners. Not only do these apps take up precious space, but they can use up to 15% of your battery in the backgroundeven if you never use them.
In this article Let's look at how to safely get rid of unnecessary system apps - from simple disabling to complete removal via ADB or TWRP. Important: not all methods are equally safe, and some may cause the device to malfunction. We will indicate the risks for each method so that you can choose the best option.
Smartphone manufacturers often block the removal of their branded applications (for example, Samsung Knox, Xiaomi GetApps or Huawei AppGallery), but this does not mean that nothing can be done with them. Even without superuser rights (root), you can significantly clean up the system - the main thing is to know what tools to use for this.
1. What is dangerous about bloatware: why it needs to be removed
Pre-installed apps do not just take up space - they actively affect the performance of the device. Here are the main problems they create:
- ๐ Reduced performance: Background blaster processes can load the processor and RAM, especially on budget smartphones with 2-4 GB of RAM.
- ๐ Increased battery consumption: Applications like Facebook Services or Google Play Movies periodically synchronize and consume battery power even in standby mode.
- ๐ฑ Cluttered interface: Unnecessary icons on the desktop and in the application menu complicate navigation.
- ๐ Security risks: Some system applications (for example, Baidu on devices for the Chinese market) can collect data without the user's knowledge.
The company's research Avast showed that on new smartphones Samsung i Xiaomi up to 20% of pre-installed applications have access to contacts, location and call history - and users rarely give informed consent to this. Removing such software not only frees up memory, but also increases confidentiality.
However, not all system apps can be deleted without consequences. For example, deleting com.android.phone (telephony service) will lead to loss of the ability to make calls. Therefore, before any manipulations, it is important to understand what each application is responsible for.
Before removing the blaster, make a backup copy of your important data. Some system applications are related to the operation of the camera, GPS or mobile network - deleting them can lead to unstable operation of the smartphone.
2. Method 1: Disabling applications through Android settings
The safest method is not to delete, but disable unnecessary apps. This will stop them running in the background and hide the icons, but will not free up memory completely. But the method works without rootrights and is suitable for any device.
Instructions for Android 10โ14:
- Open
Settings โ Applications. - Tap on three dots in the upper right corner and select
Show system processes(on some firmware this item may be calledShow all applications). - Find an unnecessary application (for example, Google Play Music or Mi Video) and open its card.
- Click
Disable(orUninstall updatesif the disable button is inactive).
On devices Samsung the path may differ:
Settings โ Device maintenance โ Memory โ Advanced โ Applications.
Unused branded services (Mi Cloud, Huawei Mobile Services)
Standard Google applications (Duo, Play Books, Play Games)
Social networks (Facebook, TikTok - if you donโt use it)
Games and demo versions from the manufacturer-->
โ ๏ธ Attention: Disable system services like Android System WebView or Google Play Services can disrupt the operation of other applications. If after disabling something stops working (for example, Push notifications), return the application to its original state through the same card in the settings.
Method 3. 2: Uninstall via ADB (without root access)
If disabling is not enough, you can remove system applications via Android Debug Bridge (ADB) - a debugging tool that does not require superuser rights. The method works on most devices, but requires connection to a computer.
Step-by-step guide:
- Download and install ADB Tools on your PC (Windows, macOS or Linux).
- Enable on your smartphone
Developer mode(tap 7 times on the build number inSettings โ About phone) and activateUSB debugging. - Connect your phone to the computer and confirm trust in the device.
- Open the command line (or Terminal on macOS/Linux) in the folder with
adb.exeand enter:adb devicesMake sure that your device is displayed in the list.
- Get a list of all packages:
adb shell pm list packages -fFind the name of the unnecessary application in the output (for example,
com.facebook.appmanagerfor Facebook Services). - Remove the application with the command:
adb shell pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.facebook.appmanagerFlag
-ksaves cache and data, and--user 0points to the current user.
Example commands for popular blower applications:
| Application | Package name | Command for deletion |
|---|---|---|
| Facebook App Manager | com.facebook.appmanager |
adb shell pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.facebook.appmanager |
| Mi Browser (Xiaomi) | com.android.browser |
adb shell pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.android.browser |
| Google Play Movies | com.google.android.videos |
adb shell pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.google.android.videos |
| Bixby (Samsung) | com.samsung.android.bixby.agent |
adb shell pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.bixby.agent |
โ ๏ธ Attention: Removing via ADB does not free up space in the partition /system, but clears the user's memory and stops background processes. To return the application, use the command:
adb shell cmd package install-existing com.facebook.appmanager
What to do if ADB does not see the device?
1. Make sure that the drivers are installed (download for Windows Google USB Driver).
2. Try another USB cable (preferably the original one).
3. Enable it in the developer settings USB debugging (security settings) i OEM unlocking.
4. Restart your phone and PC.
4. Method 3: Using third-party utilities (with root or without)
For users who do not want to work with ADB, there are specialized applications. They are divided into two categories:
- ๐ง Without root access: They can only disable or โfreezeโ applications (for example, Package Disabler for Samsung or Bloatware Remover).
- ๐ ๏ธ With root access: Allows you to completely remove system apps (for example, Titanium Backup or System App Remover).
Consider the popular tools: 1. Package Disabler Pro+ (for Samsung) applications that are not visible in standard settings (for example,
1. Package Disabler Pro+ (for Samsung)
- ๐ Works without root, but requires ADB for some functions.
- ๐ Allows you to disable even those applications that are not visible in standard settings (for example, Samsung Push Service).
- ๐ There is a function to create backup copies before disabling.
2. Universal Android Debloater (UAD)
- ๐ฅ๏ธ Works through a PC, supports most brands.
- ๐ Has a database of โsafe to deleteโ packages with a description of each.
- โ ๏ธ Requires caution - incorrect deletion can lead to bootloop (loop reboot).
3. Titanium Backup (only with root)
- ๐พ Allows you not only to delete, but also to โfreezeโ applications with the ability to restore.
- ๐ Can transfer user apps to the system partition (useful for saving space).
- ๐ Creates full backups with history changes.
โ ๏ธ Attention: Applications for removing bloatware often contain advertising or require the purchase of a Proversion. Before using, check reviews on 4PDA or XDA Developers โsome utilities may be unsafe (for example, ask for unnecessary permissions).
Even with root access, do not delete applications that have this in the package name android, google or media are critical system components.
5. Method 4: Removal via TWRP (for advanced users)
If you have custom recovery installed on your device TWRP, you can delete system applications directly through the file manager. This method gives maximum control, but requires caution - an error can lead to โbrickingโ the phone.
Instructions:
- Boot into TWRP (usually by holding
Power + Volume Up). - Select
Advanced โ File Manager. - Go to the folder
/system/priv-appor/system/appโsystem applications are stored here. - Find the folder with an unnecessary application (for example,
FacebookorChrome) and delete it. - Reboot the device.
โ ๏ธ Attention: Before deleting, make a backup of the partition /system to TWRP (item Backup โ SystemIf after deleting the phone does not boot, restore the backup via Restore.
Some manufacturers (for example, Huawei or Oppo) block modification of the system partition even through TWRPIn this case, only obtaining rootrights with unlocking will help. bootloader.
How to find out if the bootloader on your device can be unlocked?
1. Check the model on the manufacturer's website (for example, Xiaomi publishes lists of supported devices).
2. data-i="207">s Samsung With Knox) unlocking the bootloader resets the counter Knox, which voids the warranty.
3. Devices with MediaTek often require authorization through the manufacturer's account (for example, Vivo or Realme>).
6. Method 5: Flashing to custom firmware (radical method)
If the blaster clutters the system too much, and the manufacturer does not release โcleanโ firmware versions, you can install custom firmware like LineageOS, Pixel Experience or HavocOS. These firmwares are devoid of pre-installed garbage and often work faster than standard ones.
Advantages of custom firmware:
- โ Complete absence of blaster (you can choose firmware with a minimum set Google Apps).
- โ Regular security updates (unlike many branded firmware).
- โ Additional customization features (for example, managing gestures or themes).
Cons:
- โ Requires bootloader unlocking and installation TWRP.
- โ Some branded functions may not work (for example, a camera on Xiaomi without ported drivers).
- โ Risk of losing the warranty (on most devices).
Where to look for firmware:
- ๐ XDA Developers - forum with instructions and discussions for specific models.
- ๐ 4PDA โRussian-speaking community with ported firmware for popular brands.
- ๐ Official firmware sites (LineageOS, Paranoid Android etc.).
โ ๏ธ Attention: Before flashing, make sure that the selected version supports your phone model (check by device code, for example RMX3360 for Realme 9 Pro). Incompatible firmware can damage the communication module or camera.
7. What cannot be deleted: list of critical system applications.
Not all system apps are safe to remove. Below is a list of packages, the removal of which will lead to the device not working:
| Package name | Purpose | Consequences of removal |
|---|---|---|
com.android.phone |
Service telephony | Loss of the ability to call and send SMS |
com.android.systemui |
System interface (notification bar, navigation buttons) | Black screen after loading |
com.google.android.gms |
Google Play Services | Applications that depend on Google (maps, Gmail, etc.) will not work |
android.process.media |
Media provider (gallery, music) | Photos and videos will not be displayed |
com.qualcomm.qti.telephonyservice |
Modem driver (on devices with a Qualcomm processor) | Lack of mobile network |
If in doubt, Is it possible to delete a specific application, use the database on the website XDA or ask a question in a thematic chat (for example, in the Telegramcommunity of your smartphone model).
๐ก Advice: Before deleting, check dependent applications with the command:
adb shell dumpsys package com.android.phone
This command will show which services use the selected package.
8. Alternative methods: how to reduce the impact of the blower
If removing system applications seems risky, you can reduce their impact in other ways:
- ๐ก๏ธ Limiting background activity:
In the application settings (
Settings โ Applications โ [select application] โ Battery), selectLimitedbackground mode. - ๐ต Prohibiting autostart:
On Xiaomi, Huawei i Oppo there is a function to prohibit autostart for individual applications. Find it in
Settings โ Battery โ Manage application launch. - ๐ Block Internet access:
Turn off mobile data and Wi-Fi for unnecessary applications in
Settings โ Applications โ [select] โ Mobile data. - ๐๏ธ Clear cache:
Regularly clear the cache of system applications through
Settings โ Storage โ Cached data.
For devices Samsung there is a proprietary tool Device Care (Settings โ Device maintenance), which automatically optimizes the background and closes unnecessary processes.
โ ๏ธ Attention: On some firmware (for example, ColorOS from Oppo/Realme), aggressive battery optimization may interfere with the operation of instant messengers (for example, Telegram or WhatsApp). In this case, add the required applications to the list of exceptions in the battery settings.
If the smartphone begins to work slower after removing the blaster, check the free memory and cache. Sometimes the system needs to be rebooted to optimize background processes.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about deleting system applications
Is it possible to delete Google Play Services? What happens if you do this?
Delete com.google.android.gms Cannot. This package is responsible for the operation of most Google applications (Gmail, Maps, YouTube) and many third-party apps that use Google services (for example, Uber or Delivery Club will stop working after removal:
- Push notifications;
- Authorization via Google;
- Geolocation in maps;
- Updates via Play Market.
If you do not need Google services, you can install firmware without GApps (for example, LineageOS for microG), but this requires unlocking the bootloader.
How to return a deleted system application?
Recovery methods depend on the deletion method:
- If disabled through settings: Return to the application card and click
Enable. - If deleted via ADB: Use the command
adb shell cmd package install-existing [package_name]. - If deleted via TWRP/root: Restore the backup partition
/systemor reflash the device.
If the application was part of the firmware, you may need to reinstall the original firmware via Odion or Fastboot.
Why did some functions stop working after removing the blaster?
Some system applications are interconnected. data-i="312">Deleting
- Removal
com.android.contactsmay break the phone book; - Deleting
com.sec.android.app.launcheron Samsung will lead to the disappearance of the standard launcher; - Deleting
com.google.android.gsfwill disrupt the operation of Google services.
Solution: restore deleted packages or reset settings (Settings โ System โ Reset).
Is it possible to remove blaster on smartphones with eSIM?
On devices with eSIM (for example, Google Pixel or Samsung Galaxy S22) deleting system applications related to mobile communications (for example com.android.phone), may lead to network loss. You need to be especially careful when working with packages whose names include:
telephony;ims(IP multimedia);carrier(operator settings).
Before deleting, check whether the application is part of a module eSIM.
How to remove blaster on Android Go?
Devices on Android Go (for example, Nokia 1.4 or Samsung Galaxy J2 Core) have simplified firmware, where many system applications cannot be removed using standard methods. Options:
- Use ADB to disable packages (but not delete!).
- Install an alternative launcher (for example, Nova Launcher) to hide unnecessary icons.
- Try firmware type LineageOS Goif there is support for your model.
โ ๏ธ On Android Go removing system applications more often leads to failures due to limited device resources.