Users of OnePlus' flagship smartphones, the OnePlus 12 and OnePlus Open, have raised concerns regarding the installation of unwanted third-party applications during the device setup process.

The allegations, initially brought to light by tech enthusiast Gauraang Arora on social media platform X, have prompted scrutiny over the company's approach to software integration. OnePlus has since addressed the issue, asserting that the reported pre-installed applications were an error and have been rectified.

Allegations Surface Regarding Pre-Installed Third-Party Apps

Upon initiating the setup process on the OnePlus 12, users discovered a "Review additional apps" screen presenting four Google Play apps pre-selected by default. These applications, including LinkedIn, Policybazaar, Block Blast, and Candy Crush Saga, were listed under the header "From OnePlus." This discovery sparked debate among users, raising questions about the company's commitment to providing a streamlined user experience free from unwanted software additions.

Regional Disparities Uncovered in App Pre-Selection

Further investigations conducted by Android Authority revealed regional discrepancies in the pre-selection of third-party applications during setup. While Indian variants of the OnePlus 12 featured four pre-selected apps, users in the US encountered only one, with no pre-selected apps presented in the EU.

Despite the ability for users to opt-out of installing these apps during setup, concerns remain regarding the potential for users to inadvertently accept the installation, resulting in an influx of bloatware on their devices.

OnePlus Responds, Citing Error and Ensuring Bloatware-Free Experience

In response to the allegations, OnePlus issued a statement acknowledging the error in the soft-preloads on the OnePlus 12. The company clarified that the pre-installed applications were not intentional and have been rectified as of May 6. Emphasizing their commitment to delivering a bloatware-free experience, OnePlus assured users that the OnePlus 12 does not come pre-loaded with the reported apps and will continue to offer a light, fast, and smooth user experience.

Additionally, OnePlus addressed previous instances of pre-installed applications on devices such as the OnePlus Nord CE 4, noting that efforts are being made to ensure the simplicity of removing or uninstalling such apps.

However, there are speculations from industry insiders suggesting the potential introduction of more bloatware in the latest OxygenOS version for the OnePlus 12. Third-party apps like Fitbit, Bubble Pop, Facebook, Amazon, Amazon Music, Amazon Prime Video, Zomato, Agoda, and Swiggy could either be pre-installed or presented as APK shortcuts.

Users are advised to remain vigilant during the setup process and to exercise caution when installing additional applications on their devices. OnePlus assures users of their ongoing efforts to collaborate with app developers and maintain a high standard of performance on OnePlus devices.

As the debate surrounding bloatware and user privacy continues to evolve, OnePlus faces the challenge of balancing user preferences with business partnerships, underscoring the importance of transparency and user-centric design in the realm of smartphone technology.