bloatware

American  

[bloht-wair] / ˈbloʊt wɛər /

noun

Computers.

1. unwanted software that is preinstalled on a newly bought device, especially when it negatively impacts the device's performance.

   Thankfully, the smartphone doesn't come with much bloatware, only a few preloaded apps.

2. software that uses an excessive amount of space and memory.

   It used to be a good antivirus program, but it's turned into bloatware.

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Etymology

Origin of bloatware

First recorded in 1990–95; bloat ( def. ) + -ware ( def. )

Example Sentences

The touchpad can be a bit stiff, too, and the laptop comes with a range of preloaded bloatware — something no one should have to deal with at this price point.

From The Verge • Jun. 3, 2022

Despite the inclusion of some bloatware out of the box and a slightly stiff touchpad, the HP Spectre x360 is an excellent productivity laptop for anyone who’s cool with its slightly higher price.

From The Verge • May 13, 2022

However, there were some things — albeit few in number — we didn’t like, like its stiff touchpad and the fact the laptop has some bloatware preinstalled.

From The Verge • May 4, 2022

Tap or click here for a list of bloatware apps you didn’t even know were slowing down your phone.

From Fox News • Dec. 18, 2021

Another wrote: "This is a terrible bloatware baked directly into the browser."

From BBC • Dec. 1, 2021