Google to pre-load ‘Essentials’ on these Windows PCs: Can you uninstall them?

tech.hindustantimes.com:

Google is expanding its presence in the Windows PC market by introducing a new package of apps called Google Essentials. It comprises a set of pre-installed apps and services, like Google Play Games, Photos and Messages—with the option to access additional ones. This will soon be included in various Windows laptops from different OEMs; however, for now, only HP laptops will feature it. These include HP's Envy, Pavilion, OMEN, Victus, and even Omnibook series.

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Firstly, the Google Essentials app can be accessed directly from the Start menu, offering features such as access to mobile games and native PC games via Google Play, with the added ability to sync your in-game progress across Android devices and PCs.

Secondly, you can quickly access Google Photos or Google Messages on your PC through Essentials. Google claims this makes it easier to view your photos and respond to texts. Additionally, there are shortcuts to tools like Google Docs, Drive, and more. Eligible Google One subscribers will also have the opportunity to enjoy two months of free access to 100GB of cloud storage.

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Google states that it prioritises “putting you in control of your experience,” which is why users can uninstall any app or service included in Google Essentials or even remove the entire Google Essentials package if desired. For now, it isn't clear if laptops having this package would let you opt out of installing it during the setup itself. That said, this service will be available on more laptops and desktops in the “coming months,” according to Google.

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