Tablet Bloatware: How Preinstalled Apps Affect Performance

What counts as bloatware

Bloatware is the name for apps that come preinstalled on a tablet but that you did not choose. Tablet makers and carriers often add their own utilities, storefronts, video services, games, or trial software. Some are genuinely useful, such as a file manager or a notes app; others exist mainly to promote a service or collect usage data.

The amount of bloatware varies by operating system and brand. Devices running stock or near-stock Android typically have fewer extras, while some customized builds add many layers. Windows tablets and Android tablets with a custom launcher often come with extra storefronts and media apps preinstalled. Some of these apps are part of the system and cannot be removed through normal means, while others are just regular apps that you can delete like any other download.

It is worth checking the app list on any new tablet before you start installing your own software. Look for anything that seems redundant, such as a second browser, a second music player, or a games hub that you know you will never use. Knowing what is preinstalled helps you plan whether you need to free up storage or manage background activity from the day you switch it on.

How bloatware eats storage

Every preinstalled app occupies space in the tablet's internal storage. Even if you never open it, the app files, caches, and updates take up capacity. On a tablet with modest storage that leaves less room for your photos, videos, offline maps, and downloaded apps. The situation gets worse as apps update because newer versions often grow larger.

You can see the breakdown in the storage settings. Look for the list of apps and how much each one uses. Disabling or uninstalling bloatware can recover a meaningful amount of space, especially on budget models. For example, if a preinstalled app stores a large cache without you ever using it, clearing that cache can free up space instantly.

When you are comparing tablets, pay attention to how much storage is available out of the box. Some manufacturers advertise a certain capacity, but a portion of that is already taken by the operating system and preloaded apps. The usable storage you see after turning on the device is the number that matters. If you are considering a tablet with limited built-in storage, check whether it accepts a memory card to expand capacity later. See our guide to tablet storage capacity for more on how storage works.

How bloatware affects RAM

Preinstalled apps often run background services that stay loaded in system memory. Those processes eat into the RAM available for the apps you actually use. On a tablet with limited RAM, this can cause slower app switching, more reloads, and a general feeling of sluggishness. The operating system may keep the bloatware's processes alive to launch quickly, even if you never open the app.

Background apps are not the only concern. Some preinstalled apps also listen for system events, such as network changes or location updates, and wake up in response. That means the tablet might be doing more work than you think, even after you close the app. You can see memory usage in the developer options, but a simpler way to judge the impact is to disable or uninstall the apps you do not need and then test how snappy the device feels.

If you are deciding how much RAM you need, understand that bloatware is one of the reasons a tablet with the same specs can feel different across brands. A tablet with a heavy custom skin and many preloaded apps will need more RAM to run smoothly than a nearly stock Android device with the same amount of memory. Read tablet RAM size to see how RAM capacity interacts with preinstalled software.

How bloatware drains battery

Some preinstalled apps sync data, send notifications, or check your location in the background. That activity wakes the processor and prevents the tablet from settling into a low-power idle state. ENERGY STAR notes that energy-efficient computers manage energy use when idle; bloatware that constantly pings the network works against that goal.

You can reduce the battery impact by restricting background activity for specific apps in the settings. Look for battery usage details to see which preinstalled apps are using power. On many tablets you can choose to suspend battery usage for a given app or prevent it from running in the background entirely.

If a preinstalled app has a widget or a notification channel that you do not use, removing that widget and turning off notifications can also stop it from waking the tablet. Another useful step is to check whether any preinstalled app is set to auto-sync. Disabling auto-sync for apps you do not use can extend the time between charges. For deeper tips, see tablet battery life and extend tablet battery life settings.

How to manage or remove bloatware

You have several options for dealing with unwanted preinstalled apps. The easiest is to open the app info screen and tap Disable. This stops the app from running, removes it from the launcher, and prevents it from updating. Disabled apps often remain in storage but no longer consume RAM or battery.

On some tablets you can uninstall an app completely if it is not a system app. For system apps that cannot be uninstalled, you may be able to uninstall updates and then disable. Advanced users on Android can use a computer and USB debugging to remove apps entirely, but this carries risk and may void support. Because Android is open source, you have more flexibility to customize the system, as described on the Android Open Source Project.

Before you remove anything, make sure you are not deleting an app that is needed for the system to work correctly. A good approach is to disable the app first and use the tablet for a few days. If nothing breaks, you can consider more permanent removal. Keep in mind that a factory reset will often bring back the bloatware, so you may need to repeat the steps after a reset.

If bloatware is already causing problems, clearing caches and freeing up storage can help. Our free up tablet storage guide walks through safe cleanup steps. For the full process of disabling apps in Android, see our step-by-step disable bloatware guide.

Bloatware and kids' privacy

If you are buying a tablet for a child, preinstalled apps are a bigger concern. Some of them are designed to collect information about how the device is used, which may include personal data. The Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) gives parents control over what information online services can collect from kids under 13, and the Federal Trade Commission enforces those rules.

Before handing a tablet to a child, review the preinstalled apps and their permissions. Disable anything that seems unnecessary, and set up parental controls to restrict what the child can access. Many tablets include a dedicated children's profile or a separate mode for kids, which can limit which apps are visible and whether in-app purchases are allowed.

Also consider that some preinstalled apps may contain ads or links to external websites. The COPPA rule applies to websites and online services directed to children, but it is still wise to look at each app's settings and turn off personalized advertising where possible. For family-friendly picks that come with a thoughtful approach to child safety, see our best kids tablets guide.

What to pick for your use

Questions

Can I uninstall bloatware on my tablet?

Some preinstalled apps can be uninstalled like regular apps. Others, especially system apps, can only be disabled. Disabling stops the app from running and hiding it from the launcher, but it still takes up a small amount of storage. For Android devices, you can use ADB to remove system apps if you are comfortable with technical steps.

Does bloatware slow down a tablet?

Yes. Bloatware uses RAM and CPU, and background activity can make the tablet feel slower, especially on budget models with modest specs. Disabling or removing it can improve responsiveness.

Does bloatware affect battery life?

It can. Apps that sync, send notifications, or track location in the background keep the processor awake and drain the battery. You can limit background activity in settings to reduce the impact.

Is bloatware a security risk?

Preinstalled apps can be a risk if they collect more data than needed or have poor security practices. On kids' tablets, the data collection is regulated by COPPA for children under 13. Reviewing permissions and disabling unnecessary apps reduces risk.

Why do manufacturers include bloatware?

Manufacturers and carriers often include these apps because they are paid to preload them, or they want to promote their own services. The apps help them monetize the device beyond the hardware sale.