Apple will allow users to remove bloatware from iOS devices starting with iOS 10. The Cupertino technology giant is the first of the large mobile device manufacturers that allows users to take full control over the apps they have installed.
It's common practice for both mobile OS developers and mobile device manufacturers to preinstall apps on the devices they ship. Pre-installed and unwanted apps are often referred to as bloatware. Usually these apps can't be removed. Often because the vendor hopes users will start to use their apps which could lead to a vendor lockin or additional revenue made through the apps.
Another reason could be that the vendor has made a deal with a third party and receives a fee for every shipped device with the third-party's app installed.
The new version of iOS was announced yesterday during Apple's yearly WWDC developer conference. Once users upgrade to this iOS version they will be able to remove the default Apple apps from their iPhones, iPads and iPods.
Benefits are a less cluttered home screen and less space taken up by never-used apps. Apple argues the latter shouldn't be really a reason as it states on its support page that all Apple apps combined take up less than 150MB. The company also warns that removing the apps also means, "you also remove any related user data and configuration files".
Removing the apps is simple and works like any other app, simply touching and holding an app till it jiggles, then tapping the cross icon and tap remove.
Users that regret deleting the default apps can download them from the App Store again. A public beta of iOS 10 hould become available in July this year.
