The Korean government is seeking a law revision to allow users to remove preloaded apps on Android phones such as Google’s Search, Maps and Gmail apps.

Currently, the apps are preinstalled on new devices as part of Google’s contracts with manufacturers, causing complaints among users for their battery consumption and screen layout.

Amid a similar investigation launched by the European Commission recently, the Korean government has also started working to reduce the unfair dominance of Google apps, especially in the soaring mobile ad market.

According to the planned revision, users will be able to remove unnecessary apps preloaded by Google, Apple, handset makers and telecom carriers. 

Considering the market dominance of Android phones, Google apps are considered the key target for the revision.

Apple preinstalls its own apps on iPhones, not allowing telecom carriers to do so. Major Korean handset makers and telecom carriers also preinstall their own apps on Android phones.

In 2014, the Korean government created a set of guidelines to make preloaded apps removable, but they are not legally binding and so most companies do not follow them.

By Lee Ji-yoon (jylee@heraldcorp.com)