Pink circle on Home screen

[Jim the Geordie]

Occasionally I get a circular pink icon over the bottom row of icons. It
has what I would call a folder with a downward arrow. It will not move.
It also covers the Spacebar when I try to text.
Re-start clears it, but I would like to know what causes it.
Samsung Galaxy phone with Android v11

[Andy Burns]

Post by Jim the Geordie
Occasionally I get a circular pink icon over the bottom row of icons.

Sounds like the magnifier option from accessibility features?

Maybe samsung have a shortcut that makes it (too) easy to launch?

[VanguardLH]

Post by Andy Burns

Post by Jim the Geordie
Occasionally I get a circular pink icon over the bottom row of icons.

Sounds like the magnifier option from accessibility features?
Maybe samsung have a shortcut that makes it (too) easy to launch?

<Aside>
On my smartphone, long-pressing the Home button tries to being up Google
Assistant (but I have it disabled since it too often captured voice from
not me, others in the room, the TV, and not just when "Hey Google" was
said).

Something I tap (haven't figured out what) puts the screen into some
accessibility view that I don't like. Have to tap an "X" button to get
back to normal.
</Aside


The pink icon with downward arrow probably indicates a download. My
guess is some app is running in the background that presents the
download icon. You could kill all the background apps, or use a task
killer app to kill them. Or disable "draw over other apps" permission.

My phone's Android is too old to have the draw-over aka on-top
permission so watch:

My Android version is too old to see the option in Developer Options.
Not a surprise to me since Draw Over is not a permission when I look at
General -> Apps -> Permissions.

[Andy Burns]

Post by VanguardLH
The pink icon with downward arrow probably indicates a download. My
guess is some app is running in the background that presents the
download icon. You could kill all the background apps, or use a task
killer app to kill them. Or disable "draw over other apps" permission.

The magnifier option shows as a ping looking glass with a plus symbol, I
think it can be dragged into position

<Loading Image...>

[VanguardLH]

Post by Andy Burns

Post by VanguardLH
The pink icon with downward arrow probably indicates a download. My
guess is some app is running in the background that presents the
download icon. You could kill all the background apps, or use a task
killer app to kill them. Or disable "draw over other apps" permission.

The magnifier option shows as a ping looking glass with a plus symbol, I
think it can be dragged into position
<https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/wEcA5zPQJmg2F7h8V6FN6f-1200-80.jpg>

But that doesn't have the downward arrow that Geordie mentioned.

[Jim the Geordie]

Post by Andy Burns

The pink icon with downward arrow probably indicates a download.  My
guess is some app is running in the background that presents the
download icon.  You could kill all the background apps, or use a task
killer app to kill them.  Or disable "draw over other apps" permission.

The magnifier option shows as a ping looking glass with a plus symbol, I
think it can be dragged into position
<https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/wEcA5zPQJmg2F7h8V6FN6f-1200-80.jpg>

No. Nothing like that.
It's a perfect circle (unlike the rounded-off square that are the other
icons).
It's pink. As I said it contains a black edged rectangle with a border
at its top. In the lower part of the rectangle is an arrow pointing down.
True, it suggests something to do with a download, but it sits over the
Navigation bar. No amount of touching or holding makes any difference
and while it is there, the screen is frozen and no icons respond.
The only way to get rid is to restart the phone.
It has only happened twice, and I will try a screenshot if it happens
again or even take a photo.

[Jim the Geordie]

Post by Andy Burns

The pink icon with downward arrow probably indicates a download.  My
guess is some app is running in the background that presents the
download icon.  You could kill all the background apps, or use a task
killer app to kill them.  Or disable "draw over other apps" permission.

The magnifier option shows as a ping looking glass with a plus symbol, I
think it can be dragged into position
<https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/wEcA5zPQJmg2F7h8V6FN6f-1200-80.jpg>

Found it!
https://www.jimscott.co.uk/Android/Pink_Circle.html
Still no idea what it is

[VanguardLH]

Post by Jim the Geordie
Found it!
https://www.jimscott.co.uk/Android/Pink_Circle.html
Still no idea what it is

Have you yet killed all the backgrounded apps? You could use a task
killer app, or go into Android settings on each app to stop them.

Have you yet gone through the apps to ensure none have the draw over
other apps permission? After changing the permission on an app,
kill/stop it, and reload it to see if that the app presenting the
interfering icon. Already mentioned this in my prior reply.

The app creating the icon doesn't have to be one you installed. It
could be some bundled app that came on the phone.

[Jim the Geordie]

Post by VanguardLH

Post by Jim the Geordie
Found it!
https://www.jimscott.co.uk/Android/Pink_Circle.html
Still no idea what it is

Have you yet killed all the backgrounded apps? You could use a task
killer app, or go into Android settings on each app to stop them.
Have you yet gone through the apps to ensure none have the draw over
other apps permission? After changing the permission on an app,
kill/stop it, and reload it to see if that the app presenting the
interfering icon. Already mentioned this in my prior reply.
The app creating the icon doesn't have to be one you installed. It
could be some bundled app that came on the phone.

I might do that when I find the time.
I was hoping that someone had already seen and identified this, but my
description of the icon that was poor.
However, this time, given enough time, the 'icon' disappears, suggesting
(to me) that perhaps something was downloading, but I have no idea what.

[VanguardLH]

Post by Jim the Geordie

Post by VanguardLH

Post by Jim the Geordie
Found it!
https://www.jimscott.co.uk/Android/Pink_Circle.html
Still no idea what it is

Have you yet killed all the backgrounded apps? You could use a task
killer app, or go into Android settings on each app to stop them.
Have you yet gone through the apps to ensure none have the draw over
other apps permission? After changing the permission on an app,
kill/stop it, and reload it to see if that the app presenting the
interfering icon. Already mentioned this in my prior reply.
The app creating the icon doesn't have to be one you installed. It
could be some bundled app that came on the phone.

I might do that when I find the time.
I was hoping that someone had already seen and identified this, but my
description of the icon that was poor.
However, this time, given enough time, the 'icon' disappears, suggesting
(to me) that perhaps something was downloading, but I have no idea what.

Whatever it is, I would consider it malicious. Anything that locks out
the usability of YOUR property is malware no matter how well intentioned
was the app.

I've tried apps that incorporate advertizing. Not as a banner, or
buried into the GUI of the app, but present fullscreen windows to show
ads. Those fullscreen ads interfere with the use of the phone. You
have to close the window before you can use your phone. Clicking on the
"X" button to close the window can, and often does, run a script. You
aren't just closing the window that blocks access to the phone's
screens, but you also permit execution of the script linked to the "X"
object. Luckily, my phone is old, and still has its own separate nav
bar (Recent, Home, Back), so I could use the Back button to force an
exit from the fullscreen window. Some ads try to pretend to show those
buttons, but they are inside the ad window, so are scripted to do what
the ad wants to do.

The app author disclaims responsibility for how the ads are presented,
because they incorporate someone else's code to retrieve and display the
ads (i.e., Google Ads platform). It's their app. It's their code. If
they bundle in someone else's code, yep, they're still responsible for
the behavior of THEIR app. "No, officer, I didn't kill that person,
because I pulled the trigger on a handgun manufactured by someone else."

I consider any app that presents fullscreen ads to be malware. I rarely
install an app that has any advertizing, but they are getting more rare.
Many apps no longer have a payware version that removes the ads. The
author gets more revenue from the ads than the puny revenue gotten from
paying for the app.

What app is interfering with the use of your phone by obliterating the
nav bar buttons, or otherwise crippled the usability of your phone, I
would consider malware. However, lots of users will suffer loss or
privacy, security, or usability of their property for the sake of
convenience, or features they want despite the pitfalls.

[Frank Slootweg]

VanguardLH <***@nguard.lh> wrote:
[...]

Post by VanguardLH
Have you yet gone through the apps to ensure none have the draw over
other apps permission?

Does the permission manager of your phone show such a permission in
its list(s) of possible permissions?

I tried on my phone (Samsung Galaxy A51, Android 13), but its
Permission Manager does not show such a permission.

If a (i.e. Jim's) permission manager shows such a permission, it would
be much easier to see which app(s) use that permission, rather than the
other way around, check each and every app to see if they use that
permission.

[...]

[Jim the Geordie]

Post by Frank Slootweg
[...]

Post by VanguardLH
Have you yet gone through the apps to ensure none have the draw over
other apps permission?

Does the permission manager of your phone show such a permission in
its list(s) of possible permissions?
I tried on my phone (Samsung Galaxy A51, Android 13), but its
Permission Manager does not show such a permission.
If a (i.e. Jim's) permission manager shows such a permission, it would
be much easier to see which app(s) use that permission, rather than the
other way around, check each and every app to see if they use that
permission.
[...]

What would it show up as on permission manager?

[Frank Slootweg]

Post by Jim the Geordie

Post by Frank Slootweg
[...]

Post by VanguardLH
Have you yet gone through the apps to ensure none have the draw over
other apps permission?

Does the permission manager of your phone show such a permission in
its list(s) of possible permissions?
I tried on my phone (Samsung Galaxy A51, Android 13), but its
Permission Manager does not show such a permission.
If a (i.e. Jim's) permission manager shows such a permission, it would
be much easier to see which app(s) use that permission, rather than the
other way around, check each and every app to see if they use that
permission.
[...]

What would it show up as on permission manager?

That's my question (to VanguardLH). As I said, the Permission Manager
on my phone doesn't show such a permission. (At least, I can't find
one.)

[VanguardLH]

Post by Frank Slootweg
That's my question (to VanguardLH). As I said, the Permission Manager
on my phone doesn't show such a permission. (At least, I can't find
one.)

My Android is too old (v8.0.0) to have the draw-over aka overlay aka
draw over other apps permission. I think it should up in Android 10+.

While I gave the generic nav path to look at the permissions for each
app, I didn't think about some permission manager showing which apps
have which permissions.

Since the OP has a Samsung phone, I found the following article:

https://www.samsung.com/us/support/troubleshooting/TSG01001313/

along with a more general article at:

https://accessibleandroid.com/what-is-display-over-other-apps-permission-on-android-and-when-do-you-need-it/

Well, every phone maker gets to customize Android how they want, and
Samsung used their own nav path to the draw-over permission. I also
read the the draw-over permission may not be shown until you go into
Developer Options (after you enable it) to enable the permission to then
decide which apps can use it.

https://developer.android.com/training/permissions/requesting-special

That discusses the special permissions, and perhaps why Samsung put the
draw-over permission under Special Permissions. In that article, it's
call the "Display over other apps" permission.

[Andy Burns]

Post by Jim the Geordie
What would it show up as on permission manager?

Not sure if a Samsung will be same/similar to a Pixel, on mine...

settings, apps, special app access, display over other apps

[Andrew]

Post by Andy Burns

Post by Jim the Geordie
What would it show up as on permission manager?

Not sure if a Samsung will be same/similar to a Pixel, on mine...
settings, apps, special app access, display over other apps

I have not been following this thread but I usually read what Frank and
Andy write (as I learn from them) and, given I am always trying to be
helpful to any OP if I understand his questions, here's a screenshot series
I made to help either the OP or anyone else reading this find the setting.

Samsung Galaxy Android 13:
Settings > Apps > 3dots > Special access > Appear on top > {app = yes/no}
<Loading Image...>

There are also a few perhaps somewhat related Developer options, such as:
Allow screen overlays on Settings = yes/no
"Allow apps that can display over other apps to overlay Settings screens."

Hope this helps others, as that's why I post.

[Frank Slootweg]

Post by Andy Burns

Post by Jim the Geordie
What would it show up as on permission manager?

Not sure if a Samsung will be same/similar to a Pixel, on mine...
settings, apps, special app access, display over other apps

Samsung is similar [1], but does not list anything similar to "display
over other apps".

It does list "Appear on top", but many, many apps have that Special
accesss. For example Camera, Clock, Facebook, Find My Mobile, Google,
Messages, My Files, Phone and many, many more (only listed some ones
which most phones will have and most users will use/be_aware_of).

So I don't think Samsung's "Appear on top" is the same a Pixel's
"display over other apps" (or VanguardLH's "draw over other apps").

[1] Settings -> Apps -> <three_vertical_dots> icon in upper-right ->
Special access

[Andy Burns]

Post by Frank Slootweg
Samsung is similar [1], but does not list anything similar to "display
over other apps".
It does list "Appear on top", but many, many apps have that Special
accesss.

Only two apps have "display over other apps" on my phone ...
google and phone.

[Andrew]

Post by Andy Burns

Post by Frank Slootweg
Samsung is similar [1], but does not list anything similar to "display
over other apps".
It does list "Appear on top", but many, many apps have that Special
accesss.

Only two apps have "display over other apps" on my phone ...
google and phone.

I have to agree with Frank that my Samsung, for whatever reason, has
probably more than half of my hundreds upon hundreds of apps, with
"Appear on top" turned on. (I install far more apps than most people.)

Some, like "FACM" I have to look up in Muntashirakon App Manager to figure
out what the package name is <com.samsung.android.aircommandmanager>.

Muntashirakon calls that package "Bloatware" so I googled and it's
apparently some kind of quick access Samsung-specific application.
<https://www.samsung.com/ph/support/mobile-devices/what-is-air-command-and-how-to-use-it/>
I couldn't uninstall it with the Android GUI so I used adb to do it.
C:\> adb shell pm uninstall --user 0 com.samsung.android.aircommandmanager
I'll let you know if all hell breaks loose; but most likely it won't.

Another one was "Service Mode" <com.sec.android.app.servicemodeapp>
which Muntashirakon App Manager also claimed was "Bloatware".
Googling that, apparently it can dial out without the Phone app
and is on the list of bloatware for adb to uninstall on GitHub.
<https://gist.github.com/gsurrel/40cc506ac7e31134a87be4ba01a71103?permalink_comment_id=3894537>

Instead of deleting one by one, I think I'll just go en-masse again
(although I tend to blow up phones doing that - but it's just a phone).

###########################
# Phone apps and services #
###########################
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.android.stk" # SIM toolkit
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.android.stk2" # SIM toolkit (maybe for dual-sim devices)
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.sec.android.app.simsettingmgr" # SIM card manager, maybe required, contains configuration and settings for handling dual SIM (give a SIM an icon, a name, and so on)
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.smartcallprovider" # The 4th tab in the Phone app for 'local places'
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.vsim.ericssonnsds.webapp" # NSDSWebApp. The Non Sim Device Solution (NSDS) is linked to VoLTE and VoWifi (Wifi Calling). NSDS allows connecting non sim devices to IMS core: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/hemant-kumar-dewnarain-2b779679
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.android.cts.ctsshim" # Part of the Android Compatibility Test Suite: https://source.android.com/compatibility/cts/setup
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.android.cts.priv.ctsshim" # Part of the Android Compatibility Test Suite: https://source.android.com/compatibility/cts/setup
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.crane" # Phone, with extended features: share rich data (doodles, location, text messages). Couldn't find a way to access it from an official interface
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.hiya.star" # Possibly linked to the Phone app "Caller ID and spam protection service" as well as the "Places" feature

adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.sec.ims" # IMS (IP Multimedia Subsystem) is linked to VoLTE, WiFi Calling and Rich Communication Services (RCS): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IP_Multimedia_Subsystem
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.sec.imslogger" # ImsLogger (see above for IMS)
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.sec.imsservice" # IMS Service (see above for IMS)
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.samsung.advp.imssettings" # Seem linked to IMS
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.sec.epdg" # ePDG (evolved packet data gateway) could be linked to WiFi Calling and possible VoLTE: http://www.oracle.com/us/industries/communications/wifi-calling-epdg-wp-2874668.pdf

###############
# System apps #
###############
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.samsung.accessibility" # Accessibility settings (useful for apps creating virtual buttons such as a pie-menu)
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.samsung.android.app.soundpicker" # The ringtone picker provided by the system for any Alarm app
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.samsung.android.allshare.service.fileshare" # Wi-Fi Direct (bluetooth-wifi sharing of files)
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.samsung.android.allshare.service.mediashare" # Nearby service, maybe related to the previous wifi direct fileshare

# Ant+ wireless technology
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.dsi.ant.plugins.antplus" # ANT+ Plugins Service
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.dsi.ant.sample.acquirechannels" # ANT + DUT
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.dsi.ant.server" # ANT+ HAL service
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.dsi.ant.service.socket" # ANT Radio Service

################################
# Samsung specific system apps #
################################
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.samsung.android.lool" # The Setting entry "Device Care" with battery, storage, memory, and security
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.samsung.android.app.aodservice" # Always-on-Display, handles most of the lockscreen
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.samsung.android.MtpApplication" # PC connection doesn't work well without this helper utility. It is responsible for the popup "Attention, the connected device is unable to access data on this device" if MTP is unsupposted by the computer.
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.wssyncmldm" # Software update: doesn't check OTA updates without
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.sec.android.emergencymode.service" # EmergencyManagerService, linked to the battery's "Maximum power saving" mode
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.sec.android.sdhms" # Samsung Device Health Manager Service, most likely linked to "battery habits" analysis

adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.cover.ledcover" # LED Cover Service

adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.location.nsflp2" # Samsung Location SDK
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.location" # slocation

# Maybe Knox-related
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.samsung.ucs.agent.boot" # bootagent, probably linked to "eSE UCS Plugin" below, probably required by Knox
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.samsung.ucs.agent.ese" # eSE UCS Plugin, eSE is for "embedded SEcurity", probably required by Knox
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.samsung.android.smartmirroring" # Smart View, for screen mirroring and Chromecast

##################################################
# Samsung user apps, customization, and services #
##################################################
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.samsung.android.contacts" # Samsung "Contacts" app
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.sec.android.app.myfiles" # My Files, file browser
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.samsung.android.video" # Video, the default video player

adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.themecenter" # Samsung Themes
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.themestore" # Galaxy Themes
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.app.samsungapps" # Galaxy Store
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.app.sbrowser" # Samsung Galaxy Browser
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.rubin.app" # Customization Service
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.daydream.customization" # Some daydream VR customization capability?
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.app.chromecustomizations" # Chrome browser customization
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.scloud" # Samsung Cloud
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.mateagent" # Samsung Galaxy Friends
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.mobileservice" # Samsung Experience Service, handling the Samsung account and experience, required for Samsung Pay
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.weather"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.daemonapp" # Weather


# Samsing SmartSwitch
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.smartswitchassistant" # Samsung SmartSwitch
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.easyMover" # Related Smart Switch
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.easyMover.Agent" # Smart Switch Agent
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.shortcutbackupservice" # ShortcutBNR, linked to SmartSwitch Samsung Cloud features

# Equalizers
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.app.soundalive" # SoundAlive, responsible for Dobly Atmos and other equalizer stuff (accessible from the Settings app)
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.hearingadjust" # Adapt Sound, the sound equalizer in Accessibility services

# SmartThings
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.beaconmanager" # SmartThings. It is required to enable the "Settings -> Connections -> More connections settings -> Nearby device scanning". This *may* be required for detecting Chromecast and other smart TVs.
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.ststub" # SmartThings
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.easysetup" # SmartThings

# Samsung Health
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.app.shealth" # Samsung Health
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.service.health" # Health Service, from Samsung

# Widgets
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.widgetapp.easymodecontactswidget" # Favorite Contacts, probably the favourite contacts when enabling the "simple use" senior mode
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.widgetapp.samsungapps" # Galaxy Essentials Widget
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.widgetapp.webmanual" # User manual

################################################
# Mandatory Knox apps, and other security apps #
################################################
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.samsung.android.knox.containeragent" # Knox thing that gets re-enabled at update
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.samsung.android.knox.containercore" # Knox thing that gets re-enabled at update
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.knox.analytics.uploader" # Knox Analytics Uploader
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.knox.containerdesktop" # KnowContainerDesktop
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.knox.vpn.proxyhandler" # Samsung's Work profile for Entreprise proxy
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.enterprise.knox.attestation" # Knox-related
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.enterprise.knox.cloudmdm.smdms" # Knox Enrollment Service
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.knox.securefolder" # Secure Folder
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.knox.securefolder.setuppage"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.klmsagent" # KLMS Agent, most likely linked to Knox
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.trustonic.teeservice" # TeeService, for Samsung Pay? Trustronic "Trusted Execution Environment": https://www.trustonic.com/news/blog/devices-trustonic-tee/
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.trustonic.tuiservice" # TuiService, for Samsung Pay? Trustronic "Trusted User Interfaces": https://www.trustonic.com/news/blog/devices-trustonic-tee/
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.spay" # Samsung Pay
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.spayfw" # Samsung PaymentFramework
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.samsungpass" # Samsung Pass
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.samsungpassautofill" # Autofill with Samsung Pass

###############################
# Samsung camera related apps #
###############################
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.sec.android.app.camera" # Samsung Camera
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.samsung.android.app.interactivepanoramaviewer" # Interactive panorama viewer (taken with the Samsung Camera)
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.samsung.android.app.motionpanoramaviewer" # Motion panorama viewer (taken with the Samsung Camera)
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.samsung.android.app.selfmotionpanoramaviewer" # Self-motion panorama viewer (taken with the Samsung Camera)
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.samsung.app.highlightplayer" # Useful for the Video editor
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.samsung.app.slowmotion" # Slow-motion viewer, taken with the Samsung Camera
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.sec.android.gallery3d" # Samsung Gallery
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.sec.android.mimage.photoretouching" # Photo editor
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.samsung.android.provider.stickerprovider" # If disabled, the "AR Emoji" button crashed the Camera app
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.sec.android.app.vepreload" # Video Editor

# Gallery's recognition and identification of content (same "shared user id")
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.samsung.cmh" # CMHProvider (CMHProvider.apk), required by the Gallery. Responsible of face recognition in the Gallery
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.samsung.mlp" # mlp (MediaLearningPlatform.apk), has permissions linked to cmh, and visionintelligence
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.samsung.storyservice" # Gallery stories (StoryService.apk), creates stories from the user photos and videos
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.samsung.faceservice" # (FaceService.apk)
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.samsung.ipservice" # (IPService.apk)

adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.app.camera.sticker.facear.preload" # Default live sticker
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.app.camera.sticker.stamp.preload" # Stamps

################
# Samsung Edge #
################
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.cnn.mobile.android.phone.edgepanel" # CNN edge app
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.app.appsedge" # Apps edge
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.app.clipboardedge" # Clipboard edge
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.app.cocktailbarservice" # Edge screen
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.app.sbrowseredge" # Samsung Internet panel
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.app.taskedge" # Tasks edge
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.service.peoplestripe" # People edge
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.widgetapp.yahooedge.finance" # Finance, edge widget
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.widgetapp.yahooedge.sport" # Sport, edge widget

#################
# Samsung Bixby #
#################
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.app.spage" # Bixby Home
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.app.settings.bixby" # SettingsBixby
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.bixby.agent"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.bixby.agent.dummy"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.bixby.es.globalaction"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.bixby.plmsync"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.bixby.service"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.bixby.voiceinput"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.bixby.wakeup"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.svoice" # SVoice
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.svoice.sync" # Voice Service, S Voice is the ancestor of Bixby
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.systemui.bixby"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.systemui.bixby2"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.visionintelligence" # Bixby Vision
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.visionprovider" # VisionProvider, maybe linked to Bixby?

###############
# Samsung DeX #
###############
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.desktopsystemui" # Samsung DeX System UI
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.app.desktoplauncher" # Samsung DeX Home
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.desktopcommunity" # Samsung DeX community
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.desktopmode.uiservice" # Samsung DeX

#######################################
# Hidden apps (debug and diagnostics) #
#######################################

# Dialable apps
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.sec.android.app.factorykeystring" # DeviceKeyString (dial *#0283# to open audio LoopbackTest control, dial *#2663# for TSP firmware update)
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.sec.android.app.hwmoduletest" # HwModuleTest, a hardware test app (dial *#0*# to open). Fun low-level stuff to see in there
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.sec.android.app.servicemodeapp" # SysDump, low-level debugging and diagnostics tools (dial *#9900# to open)
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.sec.android.RilServiceModeApp" # Service mode RIL, for diagnostics (dial *#0011# for modem connectivity info, *#9090# for diagnostics control)
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.sec.factory.camera" # Camera Test (dial *#34971539# to open CameraFirmware Standard)
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.sec.usbsettings" # USBSettings, choose from ADB, MTP, RNDIS, ACM, DM (dial *#0808# to open)
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.factory.iris.usercamera" # Camera Iris User Test, the test from the *#0*# menu

# Other apps
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.networkdiagnostic" # Network diagnostic
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.bcservice" # Linked to some diagnostics? It mentions TcpDump
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.app.bluetoothtest" # BluetoothTest, probably a priviledged diagnostics app
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.diagmonagent" # DiagMonAgent, probably diagnostics data collection from Settings > Biometrics and security > Send diagnostic data
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.factory" # DeviceTest
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.app.wlantest" # WlanTest
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.epdgtestapp" # EpdgTestApp, test app for ePDG functionnality?

################
# Game-related #
################
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.enhance.gameservice"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.game.gamehome"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.game.gametools"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.game.gos" # Samsung Game Optimizing Service

###############
# Google apps #
###############

# Visible apps
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.google.android.apps.docs" # Google Drive
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.google.android.apps.maps" # Google Maps
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.google.android.apps.photos" # Google Photos
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.google.android.GoogleCamera" # Google Camera
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.google.android.gm" # Gmail
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.google.android.videos" # Google Movies
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.google.android.youtube" # Google's YouTube
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.google.android.music" # Google Music
# More hidden apps
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.google.ar.core" # Google Play Services for AR (Augmented Reality)
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.google.vr.vrcore" # Google VR (Virtual Reality) Services
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.google.android.tts" # Text-to-speech synthesis
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.android.hotwordenrollment.okgoogle" # Enroll for "OK-Google"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.android.hotwordenrollment.xgoogle" # Enroll for something
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.google.android.apps.nexuslauncher" # Removes the Google launcher
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.google.android.apps.restore" # Restore data from the cloud or transfer it from another device
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.google.android.apps.tachyon"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.google.android.backuptransport"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.google.android.ext.shared"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.google.android.feedback" # Market feedback agent
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.google.android.gms.policy_sidecar_aps"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.google.android.googlequicksearchbox" # The super fat Google app, handling thousands of things. Required for Android Audo (even disabled is OK)
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.google.android.onetimeinitializer"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.google.android.partnersetup"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.google.android.printservice.recommendation" # Print Service Recommendation Service
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.google.android.setupwizard" # The initial setup wizard, that can pop later to "finish the setup" with recommended apps
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.google.android.syncadapters.calendar" # Google Calendar Sync
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.google.android.syncadapters.contacts" # Google Contacts Sync
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.google.android.apps.turbo" # Device Health Services

####################
# Third-party apps #
####################
#adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.skype.raider" # Skype
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.linkedin.android" # LinkedIn
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.microsoft.office.excel" # Microsoft Excel
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.microsoft.office.powerpoint" # Microsoft PowerPoint
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.microsoft.office.word" # Microsoft Word
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.microsoft.skydrive" # Microsoft SkyDrive
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 de.axelspringer.yana.zeropage" # upday
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 flipboard.boxer.app" # Flipboard
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.facebook.appmanager" # Facebook
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.facebook.katana" # Facebook
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.facebook.services" # Facebook
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.facebook.system" # Facebook

################
# Unclassified #
################
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.android.apps.tag"
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.android.emergency"
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.android.keychain"
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.android.nfc"
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.android.providers.blockednumber"
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.android.providers.calendar"
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.android.providers.settings"
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.android.proxyhandler"
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.android.settings.intelligence"
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.android.wallpaperbackup"
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.android.wallpapercropper"
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.sec.android.wallpapercropper2" # Background image and lock-screen cropping tool
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.android.wallpaper.livepicker"
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.samsung.android.app.smartcapture"
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.samsung.android.authfw"
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.samsung.android.bio.face.service"
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.samsung.android.mdm"
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.samsung.android.messaging"
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.samsung.android.providers.context"
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.samsung.android.server.iris"

adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.samsung.android.wallpaper.res"
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.samsung.sec.android.application.csc"
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.sec.android.app.clockpackage"
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.sec.android.emergencylauncher"
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.sec.android.ofviewer"
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.sec.android.provider.emergencymode"
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.sec.android.providers.security"
adb shell "cmd package install-existing com.sec.modem.settings"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 android.autoinstalls.config.samsung"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.android.backupconfirm"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.android.bips" # Default print service
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.android.bluetoothmidiservice"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.android.bookmarkprovider"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.android.calllogbackup"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.android.captiveportallogin"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.android.chrome"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.android.dreams.basic"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.android.dreams.phototable"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.android.egg"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.android.htmlviewer"
# adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.android.inputdevices" # Input devices, only contains a receiver named "Android keyboard", possibly for an external keyboard
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.android.managedprovisioning" # Work profile setup
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.android.mms.service" # MmsService, no activity but a service, with permissions related to carrier connectivity. For receiving MMS?
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.android.pacprocessor"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.android.printspooler" # Print spooler
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.android.providers.partnerbookmarks"
# adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.android.sharedstoragebackup" # One service (ObbBackupService), nothing else. No internet access, and might be useful
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.android.statementservice" # Intent Filter Verification Service
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.diotek.sec.lookup.dictionary" # Dictionary
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.galaxyfirsatlari"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.gd.mobicore.pa"

adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.mobeam.barcodeService"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.monotype.android.font.chococooky"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.monotype.android.font.cooljazz"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.monotype.android.font.foundation"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.monotype.android.font.rosemary"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.osp.app.signin" # Can cause problems when removed (https://gist.github.com/gsurrel/40cc506ac7e31134a87be4ba01a71103#gistcomment-3867315)
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.policydm"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.aasaservice"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.accessory"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.accessory.beansmgr"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.accessory.safiletransfer"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.app.accesscontrol"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.app.advsounddetector" # Sound detectors
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.app.assistantmenu" # Assistant menu
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.app.color"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.app.filterinstaller"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.app.galaxyfinder" # Finder, the "search in device" feature
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.app.ledcoverdream" # LEF icon editor, for LED covers
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.app.mirrorlink" # Samsung MirrorLink 1.1, to connect the phone to a car
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.app.multiwindow"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.app.notes"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.app.omcagent" # Configuration update, some activities are very suspicious: "Recommended apps"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.app.panel.naver.v"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.app.reminder" # Reminder, does regular network access
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.app.simplesharing" # Link sharing
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.app.social" # What's new
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.app.talkback" # Voice Assistant
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.app.watchmanager"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.app.watchmanagerstub" # Wearable Manager Installer
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.app.withtv"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.bbc.bbcagent" # BBCAgent
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.calendar" # Calendar
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.clipboarduiservice" # ClipboardUIService
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.coreapps"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.da.daagent" # Dual messenger
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.dlp.service"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.dqagent" # DQA (Device Quality Agent), reportedely keeps tabs on Wi-Fi quality throughout the device
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.drivelink.stub" # CarmodeStub
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.email.provider"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.emojiupdater"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.fingerprint.service"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.fmm" # Find my mobile
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.gearoplugin"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.hmt.vrsvc" # Gear VR Service
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.keyguardwallpaperupdator" # Keyguard Wallpaper Updator, seems linked to selecting multiple lockscreen wallpapers, features removed in S8 but app stayed
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.kidsinstaller" # Kids Home Installer
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.oneconnect"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.provider.shootingmodeprovider"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.samsungpositioning" # Samsung Positioning
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.sdk.handwriting" # Handwriting Service
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.sdk.professionalaudio.app.audioconnectionservice"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.sdk.professionalaudio.utility.jammonitor"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.securitylogagent"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.smartface" # SmartFaceService
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.smartfitting" # SmartFittingService

adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.sm.devicesecurity" # This is the antivirus in Settings -> Device care -> Security
# adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.sm.policy" # SCPM Client, *might* be used for power savings: https://www.reddit.com/r/GalaxyS6/comments/4cg70v/what_is_scpm_client/d2ij0ep/ but performs network requests
# adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.spdclient" # Security policy updates, updates the SELinux policies according to Security Enhancements for Android (SE for Android)
# adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.spdfnote" # Write on PDF
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.stickercenter" # StickerCenter, related to Samsung stickers: https://developer.samsung.com/galaxy/stickers

adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.svcagent" # SVC Agent
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.timezone.autoupdate_O"
# adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.timezone.data_P" # Samsung Time Zone Data
# adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.timezone.updater" # Time Zone Updater
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.universalswitch" # Universal switch, accessibility feature to control the phone: https://www.samsung.com/uk/accessibility/mobile-universal-switch/
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.visioncloudagent"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.voc"

# adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.app.newtrim" # Video trimmer
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.clipboardsaveservice" # ClipboardSaveService, probably the clipboard history sometimes accessible
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.dcmservice"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.enhanceservice"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.hiddennetworksetting"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.rcs" # RcsSettings (Rich Communication Services "joyn"), has permissions linked to cmh, and visionintelligence: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rich_Communication_Services
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.safetyinformation" # Some safety information, telling you not to put your phone in you eyes (I'm serious)
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.SMT"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.app.apex" # Samsung ApexService, provides a Motion Photo player/viewer
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.app.applinker" # AppLinker, talks about firmware update and FeliCa Networks.
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.app.billing" # Samsung Checkout
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.app.DataCreate" #
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.app.magnifier" # Magnifier, uses the phone's camera
# adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.app.parser" # DRParser Mode, maybe linked to IME (Input Method Engine?) Secret Codes
# adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.app.personalization" # Perso, related to read/write phone state according to the app's permissions
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.app.popupcalculator"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.app.quicktool" # Quick tools
# adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.app.ringtoneBR" # ringtonebackup
# adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.app.safetyassurance" # Safety assistance, related to phone-based emergency services. Keep for safety
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.app.SecSetupWizard"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.app.setupwizardlegalprovider" # SetupWizardLegalProvider

adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.app.suwscriptplayer" # SuwScriptPlayer
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.app.sysscope"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.app.voicenote"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.AutoPreconfig"
# adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.easyonehand" # Probably the shrinked display for a 1-hand use feature
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.mimage.gear360editor" # 360� Photo Editor, the photo editor for the Samsung Gear 360 device
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.preloadinstaller" # Application Installer, the Internet says it's responsible of (re-)installing junk on your mobile
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.provider.badge" # BadgeProvider
# adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.soagent" # Software update, works along com.wssyncmldm?
# adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.splitsound" # SplitSoundService, probably the capability to play different music on the local device and on a bluetooth speaker
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.uibcvirtualsoftkey" # UIBCVirtualSoftkey, probably the service to get a software button for accessibility
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.app.RilErrorNotifier" # RilNotifier
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.automation" # TetheringAutomation, linked to an "always on tethering" option
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.downloadablekeystore"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.enterprise.mdm.services.simpin" # Entreprise Sim Pin Service
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.enterprise.mdm.vpn"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.mldapchecker" # MLDAPlog
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.smartcard.manager"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.spp.push" # Samsung Push Service
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.sve" # SecVideoEngineService
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sem.factoryapp" # SEMFactoryApp
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.setk.widget"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.skms.android.agent" # SKMSAgentService, Samsung KMS (Key Managment Service?) talks with the eSE device (embedded SEcurity): https://android-apk.org/com.skms.android.agent/
# adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.wsomacp" # Configuration message, linked to OMA (Open Mobile Alliance) CP (Client Provisioning) messages: carrier related, but can cause problems: https://gbhackers.com/single-sms-wap-crap-can-break-samsung-galaxy/
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.wssnps"
adb shell "pm uninstall -k --user 0 org.simalliance.openmobileapi.service"

[Frank Slootweg]

Post by Jim the Geordie

Post by Andy Burns

The pink icon with downward arrow probably indicates a download.  My
guess is some app is running in the background that presents the
download icon.  You could kill all the background apps, or use a task
killer app to kill them.  Or disable "draw over other apps" permission.

The magnifier option shows as a ping looking glass with a plus symbol, I
think it can be dragged into position
<https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/wEcA5zPQJmg2F7h8V6FN6f-1200-80.jpg>

Found it!
https://www.jimscott.co.uk/Android/Pink_Circle.html
Still no idea what it is

I made a screenshot (Windows Snipping Tool) of the icon and used
Google's 'Search by image', but that didn't find anything similar.

Also a direct 'Search with Google Lens' in Chrome on your page, i.e.
better resolution than a screenshot of a screenshot, didn't find
anything.

[Jeff Layman]

Post by Jim the Geordie

Post by Andy Burns

The pink icon with downward arrow probably indicates a download.  My
guess is some app is running in the background that presents the
download icon.  You could kill all the background apps, or use a task
killer app to kill them.  Or disable "draw over other apps" permission.

The magnifier option shows as a ping looking glass with a plus symbol, I
think it can be dragged into position
<https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/wEcA5zPQJmg2F7h8V6FN6f-1200-80.jpg>

Found it!
https://www.jimscott.co.uk/Android/Pink_Circle.html
Still no idea what it is

You could try taking your phone with its screenshot of the pink circle
into your mobile provider's shop and asking the staff there. One of them
might have seen it before and know what it is.

[Jim the Geordie]

Post by Jeff Layman

Post by Jim the Geordie

Post by Andy Burns

The pink icon with downward arrow probably indicates a download.  My
guess is some app is running in the background that presents the
download icon.  You could kill all the background apps, or use a task
killer app to kill them.  Or disable "draw over other apps" permission.

The magnifier option shows as a ping looking glass with a plus symbol, I
think it can be dragged into position
<https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/wEcA5zPQJmg2F7h8V6FN6f-1200-80.jpg>

Found it!
https://www.jimscott.co.uk/Android/Pink_Circle.html
Still no idea what it is

You could try taking your phone with its screenshot of the pink circle
into your mobile provider's shop and asking the staff there. One of them
might have seen it before and know what it is.

It seems the problem is caused by an app 'Floating Notes'
If you got a chance to see my screenshot, you may have noted a small
yellow box (top Right) That is a minimised 'Floating Note'
If at any time that box is pulled down to see what it may be hiding,
then the Pink Circle Icon appears and conversely, if pushed up, it
disappears. Taa Daa
I have notified the Floating Notes 'compiler'

[VanguardLH]

Post by Jim the Geordie
It seems the problem is caused by an app 'Floating Notes'
If you got a chance to see my screenshot, you may have noted a small
yellow box (top Right) That is a minimised 'Floating Note'
If at any time that box is pulled down to see what it may be hiding,
then the Pink Circle Icon appears and conversely, if pushed up, it
disappears. Taa Daa
I have notified the Floating Notes 'compiler'

"Notes that keep visible while using other apps"

That app wants the draw-over permission. Looking at the list of
permissions would've shown this app having that permission. The Youtube
videos showed how to determine which apps have the draw-over permission,
and can disable that permission. Killing the backgrounded app would've
also eliminated its screen icons.

From your screenshot showing the pink icon with downward arrow, yep,
there is an icon at the upper right, but you must have the optioned
enabled to minimize the notes to an icon. The circle with underscores
looks to have some text that might be a capital F or P. Without knowing
the Floating Notes app, no way to associate that icon with the pink one.

"Synchronize your notes across all your Android devices"

That sure sounds like this app uploads your notes to a server, and the
app also downloads your notes from a server to synchronize across
devices. There is no mention the client (app) encrypts the data before
transit.

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.jsvmsoft.stickynotes

Click on "About this app", and then click on Permissions, View Details"
where "draw over other apps" (aka SYSTEM_ALERT_WINDOW) is a permission
for this app. Yet the details say this app is compatible with Android
4.4, and up. However, draw over other apps wasn't supposedly available
until Android 6.0. I have Android 8.0.0. At first, I didn't find the
draw-over permission. Had to drill a bit more to find it, and it is
listed. Hard to find.

At the Play Store app page, there is no mention of just how note sync is
performed, like if you need the app on each endpoint device to transfer
the notes, or if their server is involved, and if so how is your note
data protected from their prying eyes. Their web site notes there is a
Pro version, no mention of how to buy it, so it's probably an in-app ad
in the free app. I didn't see a price for the Pro version. Neither was
a list of what features would be uncrippled in the free version when you
pay for the Pro version. There are no technical details at the Play
Store or their web site.

Note: If the permission is not listed, you may have to go into Developer
Options (after you enable it) to grant the permission.

https://floatingnotes.com/privacy.html
Did you read this?
They make claims of securing your data, but no mention just how they do
that. Plus, all they need is your permission to access your data. No
password, or other encryption mechanism to undo to let them see your
data. No mention of endpoint encryption by their client app to totally
eliminate them seeing your data.

Usually when an app asks for permissions, the user get prompted on the
app's install to authorize or deny access to the permission.

https://usa.kaspersky.com/blog/android-8-permissions-guide/16300/
Display over other apps
What it is: This permission allows the app to display its own windows
on top of any other apps.

The danger: Malicious apps can hide important warnings from view, and
also superimpose fake forms for entering credit-card details or
passwords over legitimate app windows. This permission is one of two
key mechanisms used in so-called Cloak & Dagger attacks.

Also, this permission is widely used by adware to shove ads into
users’ faces more effectively, and by blockers, ransomware that
overlays a phone’s interface with its own window and demands ransom
for getting rid of it.

All in all, most apps should not be given this permission.

Where it’s configured: Settings -> Apps & notifications -> Advanced ->
Special app access -> Display over other apps

While this permission can easily be abused, it does have some purpose.
For example, when you get a phone call, you see a popup telling you
about the phone call; else, when in some app with its window on the
screen, you won't know you got a phone call.

[Andy Burns]

Post by VanguardLH

Post by Jim the Geordie
It seems the problem is caused by an app 'Floating Notes'

That app wants the draw-over permission.

Yes, a classic example. Looking at the screenshots on Play store, I
want to know what permission it needs to draw beyond the edges of the
screen?

[VanguardLH]

Post by Andy Burns

Post by VanguardLH

Post by Jim the Geordie
It seems the problem is caused by an app 'Floating Notes'

That app wants the draw-over permission.

Yes, a classic example. Looking at the screenshots on Play store, I
want to know what permission it needs to draw beyond the edges of the
screen?

The author is exaggerating his app. Apparently you can drag notes to
the edge of the screen, and then drag them back when you want to view
them, or maybe the placeholder icon toggles between showing the note
expanded within the screen to collapsing it to the placeholder icon.

With the OP saying it takes quite a while for the pink circled down
arrow to disappear, I have to wonder how huge are the notes the OP has
recorded, or how slow is the sync server (which the app author never
describes nor how notes are kept secret even from the app author).

[Jim the Geordie]

Post by VanguardLH

Post by Jim the Geordie
It seems the problem is caused by an app 'Floating Notes'

That app wants the draw-over permission.

Yes, a classic example.  Looking at the screenshots on Play store, I
want to know what permission it needs to draw beyond the edges of the
screen?

Uninstalled it and will do a reg clean.
I would like an alternative.
I have looked at Google Keep and Onenote, but as far as I can tell,
neither keeps a 'sticky' on the screen

[Andy Burns]

Post by Jim the Geordie
I would like an alternative.
I have looked at Google Keep and Onenote, but as far as I can tell,
neither keeps a 'sticky' on the screen

I use Keep, it has a widget for use on home screens, but no "on top" option.

[Jim the Geordie]

Post by Andy Burns

Post by Jim the Geordie
I would like an alternative.
I have looked at Google Keep and Onenote, but as far as I can tell,
neither keeps a 'sticky' on the screen

I use Keep, it has a widget for use on home screens, but no "on top" option.

Thanks Andy

Keep is nice and quick to use. OneNote is more 'professional'.

Another dilemma for me :)

[VanguardLH]

Post by Jim the Geordie
Keep is nice and quick to use. OneNote is more 'professional'.
Another dilemma for me :)

I use OneNote. While it has a widget to add to a screen for quick
access, I just add it to the home touch buttons (aka navbar) at the
bottom of the screen (*).

(*) Actually, my phone (LG V20) has 2 navbars: the typical one at the
bottom, and a separate off-screen navbar at the top to add more
shortcuts. While I use OneNote, its use is nowhere near as often as
Phone, Messages, web browser, or camera that are in the bottom navbar,
so OneNote goes into the scrollable top navbar in my setup. Of
course, I could put a shortcut or widget to OneNote on any "home"
screen (Android now calls all screens the home screens instead of the
default one being the home screen), and scroll through the screens.

I like OneNote lets me encrypt my notes. Alas, I can only encrypt by
section (within a notebook), not on an entire notebookd. The encryption
is local, so the data is encrypted before it gets uploaded. I can
access the data using their web client, or another OneNote client
connecting to the same account, but only after entering the password
(which is different than the login to the account). The data is
encrypted before transport. Of course, how secure depends on how strong
and long is the encryption string. While none of my accounts have been
hacked (I use a strong and long password that is unique to every
domain), a family member did. Having the cloud copy of your data
encrypted (using a different string than login) adds another hurdle to
the hacker. Of course, using login credentials that are unique to every
domain eliminates a hacker invading all your accounts across multiple
online services.

I checked, and OneNote does have the draw-over permission. However, I
don't remember ever seeing it used. I don't see anything of OneNote
until I choose. OneNote does have its sticky notes feature, but I've
never used it. I'm not into desktop/screen clutter.

https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/see-your-sticky-notes-on-other-devices-and-the-web-cf4bacd0-c042-46fd-9077-ca8c82dc0236#ID0EBBF=Android_phone
"Note: You cannot currently have Sticky Notes stay on top of other
applications."

Yet that comment (before selecting the OS platform) seems oriented
toward the Windows version. If you're into cluttering your screen(s),
see if OneNote's sticky notes are doable.

As I recall, Google has deprecated Keep, and will discontinue it to
replace with their Notes & Lists app.

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.keep

Notice the package name ends with ".keep". Since I don't use it, I have
not investigate on the user data is secured, if at all, or how, or at
which endpoint (client or server).

[Andrew]

Post by Jim the Geordie
Occasionally I get a circular pink icon over the bottom row of icons.

It's highly likely, IMHO, to be app-launcher related, so we wouldn't see
the same thing if we didn't use the same app launcher that you're using.

What app launcher are you using?

If you don't know offhand, it tells you (for my Samsung anyway) in
Settings > Apps > Choose default apps > Home app > Default home app

To help the OP out, as always, I've invested the time & energy to create a
screenshot so that the OP will be more efficient in answering the question.
<Loading Image...>

I suspect, strongly so, the issue is app-launcher specific, which is why
the answer to the question will help others help the OP find the solution.

[Jim the Geordie]

Post by Andrew

Post by Jim the Geordie
Occasionally I get a circular pink icon over the bottom row of icons.

It's highly likely, IMHO, to be app-launcher related, so we wouldn't see
the same thing if we didn't use the same app launcher that you're using.
What app launcher are you using?
If you don't know offhand, it tells you (for my Samsung anyway) in
Settings > Apps > Choose default apps > Home app > Default home app
To help the OP out, as always, I've invested the time & energy to create a
screenshot so that the OP will be more efficient in answering the question.
<https://i.postimg.cc/rs56F6cb/homeapp.jpg>
I suspect, strongly so, the issue is app-launcher specific, which is why
the answer to the question will help others help the OP find the solution.

Thanks. The only entry in Default home app is 'One UI Home'

You do realise that this oddity rarely happens, and my phone is on 24/7?

[Frank Slootweg]

Post by Jim the Geordie
Occasionally I get a circular pink icon over the bottom row of icons. It
has what I would call a folder with a downward arrow. It will not move.
It also covers the Spacebar when I try to text.
Re-start clears it, but I would like to know what causes it.
Samsung Galaxy phone with Android v11

That the downward arrow is a download symbol has already been
suggested and has been confirmed by your screenshot of the icon, but
(AFAIK) the most obvious question has not been asked/answered:

Have you looked in your Downloads (or Download) folder to see if there
are any recent files which might give a clue about which app did what
and which might point to the culprit app that's giving the pink circle
download icon on the home screen?

[Jim the Geordie]

Post by Frank Slootweg

Post by Jim the Geordie
Occasionally I get a circular pink icon over the bottom row of icons. It
has what I would call a folder with a downward arrow. It will not move.
It also covers the Spacebar when I try to text.
Re-start clears it, but I would like to know what causes it.
Samsung Galaxy phone with Android v11

That the downward arrow is a download symbol has already been
suggested and has been confirmed by your screenshot of the icon, but
Have you looked in your Downloads (or Download) folder to see if there
are any recent files which might give a clue about which app did what
and which might point to the culprit app that's giving the pink circle
download icon on the home screen?

Yes.