SEOUL – Samsung is under the spotlight after claims surfaced that its Galaxy phones come pre-installed with an “unremovable Israeli spyware” called AppCloud. The issue is trending on social media platform X, with concerns being raised over privacy, security, and the forced installation of apps.
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AppCloud, developed by Israeli company ironSource, now part of Unity, is marketed as a system app that helps promote other apps. However, SMEX, a digital rights non-profit, alleged in an open letter to Samsung that the app is deeply integrated into the operating system, making it nearly impossible for users to uninstall without root access. Critics claim this could void warranties and pose security risks, though Samsung has not confirmed any spyware functionality.
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The controversy has fueled rumors that AppCloud collects user data and installs apps without consent, with some speculation that countries like China may consider restricting Samsung phone sales. Samsung may explore options in the future to allow users to remove the app, but no official statement has been made regarding its alleged spyware functions.