iPhone vs. Android: A New Study Reveals Which Platform Offers Better Control Over Bloatware

A recent study by cybersecurity firm Surfshark highlights significant differences in how iPhone and Android devices handle pre-installed applications, or bloatware. The research indicates that iPhone users generally have more freedom to remove pre-installed apps compared to users of Samsung and Google devices. While iPhones allow users to delete a high percentage of pre-installed software, Android devices from major manufacturers often come with a larger volume of apps that cannot be easily removed. Beyond the issue of storage space, the study raises serious privacy concerns. Many of these pre-installed apps operate in the background, collecting extensive personal data, including location and behavioral information. Surfshark experts warn that even unused apps pose a risk, as they may harvest data for targeted advertising or share it with third parties. The report suggests that users should consider switching to privacy-focused third-party alternatives to minimize data exposure.