The best bloatware: 14 pre-installed apps that actually come in handy

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  • Making the most of pre-installed mobile apps

    Making the most of pre-installed mobile apps

    Bloatware. Usually it's the annoying, pre-installed apps on your mobile device that take up precious space. But some bloatware out there isn't that bad. Here are 14 pre-installed apps that you'll be glad come already loaded onto your phone.

    Photo by: Samsung

    Caption by: Lisa Bernier

  • The Amazon apps

    The Amazon apps

    Granted, you don't need all of Amazon's apps (like Amazon Underground, which is basically the luxe version of Amazon Shopping). However, a couple are actually worth the space.

    Photo by: Amazon Mobile, LLC

    Caption by: Lisa Bernier

  • Amazon Shopping

    Amazon Shopping

    Who doesn't use Amazon as an online shopping mall? Yes, there's Alibaba and World Marketplace, but when it comes to shopping, Amazon remains the major destination. Granted, this won't help you curb your impulse buys, but it's extremely convenient when it comes to grabbing that last-minute holiday gift, or sourcing useful items in your own life.

    Platform: Android


    Storage: 23.51 M

    Photo by: Amazon Mobile LLC

    Caption by: Lisa Bernier

  • Amazon Kindle

    Amazon Kindle

    As online tools increasingly move onto one device, it seems only natural that instead of using a Kindle, people will switch over to the mobile app. A godsend during a commute, this app allows you to avoid lugging multiple items in your bag.

    With text that's re-sizable, you don't have to squint either. True, what you store directly on the phone can take up space and slow your device down. However, you can pick and choose what you download, freeing up much-needed storage.

    Platform: Android
    Storage: 38.07 MB

    Photo by: Amazon Mobile, LLC

    Caption by: Lisa Bernier

  • The Google apps

    The Google apps

    Recently, it was announced that the number of pre-installed Google apps on Androids would be reduced, much to the relief of everyone. (Who uses Google+ online or on an app? Answer: No one.)

    However, here are a few you'll be glad are on your phone already.

    Photo by: Google Inc.

    Caption by: Lisa Bernier

  • Google Maps

    Google Maps

    It's accurate, it's fast, and it's one of the best apps for figuring out a) where things are and b) how to get to said things. With the ability to use it as a voice-guided GPS navigator if needed, Google Maps is an essential.

    Photo by: Photo: Google Inc

    Caption by: Lisa Bernier

  • Google Search: Not bloat

    Google Search: Not bloat

    The usefulness of the Google search toolbar app seems self-explantorary, but for those who need more proof ...we suggest: Google it.

    Platform: Android
    Storage: 35.99 MB

    Photo by: Photo: Google Inc

    Caption by: Lisa Bernier

  • Google Hangouts

    Google Hangouts

    The reason Google Hangouts is so great? The chat feature. Is it this generation's AIM? Possibly, but that's a claim only time will tell.

    More practically, with so many companies using Gmail as an email server, Google Hangouts provides quick and easy communication with colleagues.

    Platform: Android
    Storage: 25.52 MB

    Photo by: Google Inc.

    Caption by: Lisa Bernier

  • Gmail

    Gmail

    One of the most-used email clients, the app easily syncs multiple Gmail accounts. It allows you to quickly toggle back and forth from personal, to work, to that random Gmail you set up to sell things on Craigslist.

    Platform: Android
    Storage: 12.68 MB

    Photo by: Photo: Google Inc.

    Caption by: Lisa Bernier

  • NFL Mobile

    NFL Mobile

    For all football fanatics, this is one app you will never want to uninstall. It's perfect for helping with those fantasy football picks. The app also keeps you informed on the latest and greatest when it comes to the NFL.

    Platform: Android
    Storage: 41.81 MB

    Photo by: NFL Enterprises LLC

    Caption by: Lisa Bernier

  • Skype: Also good for messaging

    Skype: Also good for messaging

    If you have a Windows phone, this pre-installed app is a great bonus. Essential for all those with international friendships and family, Skype mobile allows you to make international calls and videos without the hefty bill you incur on a phone.

    Plus, as an alternative to texting, you can use its built-in messaging system.

    Platform: Windows
    Storage: 33.47 MB

    Photo by: Photo: Skype

    Caption by: Lisa Bernier

  • FaceTime

    FaceTime

    For Apple users, this is a brilliant alternative to Skype. Actually, let's be honest: If you have an Apple device, and so do all of your friends and family, you don't even need Skype as long as you have FaceTime.

    Platform: iOS
    Storage: 17.6 MB

    Photo by: Apple Inc.

    Caption by: Lisa Bernier

  • Calculator

    Calculator

    I mean, you need to add and subtract stuff, right? As long as you go out to eat, you'll need something to calculate those tips, and this option is as easy as they come.

    Storage and platform dependent upon operation system.

    Photo by: Photo: YouTube/Apple Inc

    Caption by: Lisa Bernier

  • Camera app

    Camera app

    Cameras in phones are so ubiquitous now that you don't even think of them as apps. But they are, and in these modern times, where every single bit of life must be captured in a media form, they're a must-have. Additionally, the camera capabilities on the new Samsung Galaxy6 (and on all the iPhones) are stellar.

    Storage and platform dependent upon operation system.

    Photo by: Samsung

    Caption by: Lisa Bernier

  • Photos app

    Photos app

    Regarding its usefulness, see everything we said about the Camera app, but just replace the word with "Photo."

    Storage and platform dependent upon operation system.

    Photo by: Samsung

    Caption by: Lisa Bernier

  • Apple's Podcasts app

    Apple's Podcasts app

    No, podcasts haven't taken the place of radio, but they're definitely an essential form of media for any commute.

    And the majority of popular podcasts are easily available through the Apple store via iTunes, so this app is probably a lifesaver--well, a boredom killer--for many an iPhone-holding commuter.

    Platform: iOS
    Storage: 12.9 MB

    Photo by: Apple Inc.

    Caption by: Lisa Bernier

  • iMovie

    iMovie

    Ok, not everyone is an aspiring filmmaker. But almost everyone records and uploads video to another app, whether it's Instagram, Vine, Facebook. To edit a video so it's a perfect 15 seconds of viral glory? You need an app for that.

    Platform: iOS
    Storage: 646 MB

    Photo by: Apple Inc.

    Caption by: Lisa Bernier

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Usually, annoying bits of bloatware just take up precious space. But you won't begrudge these one byte.

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Making the most of pre-installed mobile apps

Bloatware. Usually it's the annoying, pre-installed apps on your mobile device that take up precious space. But some bloatware out there isn't that bad. Here are 14 pre-installed apps that you'll be glad come already loaded onto your phone.

Caption by: Lisa Bernier

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