Microsoft’s latest update gives more power to users on app selection

Microsoft (MSFT) has offered to kill more of its own bloatware with an upcoming Windows 10 update that is dubbed 19H1. The update, which is scheduled to release around the first half of 2019, enables users to uninstall certain pre-installed apps, including OneNote, Skype, and Weather.

This is Microsoft’s latest strategy to encourage more corporate customers to use Windows 10 in their PCs. For example, a firm that regulates on Outlook would not want the Mail and Calendar apps. Apart from reducing user distraction, the move also helps in saving disk space and convenience.

This feature was unveiled in the Windows blog build 18262 of the Windows Insider preview. The build isn’t part of Redstone 5, officially known as the October 2018 Update.

The apps that can be uninstalled by the users include Mail, Paint 3D, Sticky Notes, 3D Viewer, Calendar, Voice Recorder, Calculator, Groove Music, Movies & TV, and Snip & Sketch. Currently, Microsoft allows uninstallation of Skype, My Office, Microsoft Solitaire Collection, Tips, OneNote, Print3D, and Weather.

The user can, at any time, reinstall these apps from the Store when needed. However, a few apps such as Camera, Microsoft Edge, and the Store can’t be removed and remains an essential part of Windows 10.

Microsoft’s efforts to refine its product lineup and offerings come after the company notified users to switch to Edge browser through warning messages, advertisements and pop-ups. Experts felt these irritating prompts were more harm than good.

The company is set to release its first-quarter results next week. Market pundits believe that Windows is likely to be part of the top line drivers in the More Personal Computing segment. Gaming, Surface and cloud service businesses are also strongly expected to drive the segment’s top line.

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