Verizon updates the Galaxy S7 lineup with bloatware

Although bloatware is not something unexpected when someone decides to use a carrier variant of virtually any smartphone, receiving an OTA update that installs what some users call simply "a carrier-approved trojan horse" is not something that happens every day. Unfortunately, it looks like Verizon Wireless has just managed to deliver such an update to Samsung Galaxy S7 users on its network.

The app known as DT Ignite is described as a "preload platform for mobile operators to seamlessly manage applications installed at first boot and over the life of the device." Back in 2014, both T-Mobile and Verizon were criticized for using it, so it has been around for a while. DT Ignite was not preinstalled on Galaxy S7 in the first place, but recently reached it thanks to an update. Fortunately, while this app can install other apps without the user's permission, disabling it is really easy. On the other hand, removing it requires root access.

Verizon Wireless mentioned that customers using a Galaxy S7 on its network "will not find new or random apps installed or pushed to their phone after the software update." The company also made the following statement to The Verge: "The Digital Turbine (DT Ignite) software is only active during the initial set-up of a brand new device or if a device goes through a factory reset. Following the initial set up, the software will not push or install new apps at any time in the background. Any app installed through DT Ignite is completely removable and can be uninstalled."