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Ice Cream Sandwich: Say goodbye to bloatware

The Android 4.0 OS update known as Ice Cream Sandwich includes one understated feature that users have been requesting for years.

Jessica Dolcourt Senior Director, Commerce & Content Operations
Jessica Dolcourt is a passionate content strategist and veteran leader of CNET coverage. As Senior Director of Commerce & Content Operations, she leads a number of teams, including Commerce, How-To and Performance Optimization. Her CNET career began in 2006, testing desktop and mobile software for Download.com and CNET, including the first iPhone and Android apps and operating systems. She continued to review, report on and write a wide range of commentary and analysis on all things phones, with an emphasis on iPhone and Samsung. Jessica was one of the first people in the world to test, review and report on foldable phones and 5G wireless speeds. Jessica began leading CNET's How-To section for tips and FAQs in 2019, guiding coverage of topics ranging from personal finance to phones and home. She holds an MA with Distinction from the University of Warwick (UK).
Expertise Content strategy, team leadership, audience engagement, iPhone, Samsung, Android, iOS, tips and FAQs.
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Android fans, say goodbye to bloatware.

CNET has recently confirmed with Google that the Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich update will let users disable any application, even those apps that the manufacturer and carrier preinstall as part of their business deals.

The ability to shut down unwanted apps also extends to the browser and Gmail.

For years, Android users have been harassed by the presence of apps that were locked into the phone and impossible to uninstall. Users who didn't want any of these preinstalled apps had to lump it, and turn an unseeing eye to the offending apps.

While you won't be able to remove the app completely, disabling will keep the app from running and will remove the icon from the app tray and home screen.

That is, of course, unless they're part and parcel with Ice Cream Sandwich to begin with.

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