Best Buy Attempts To Reduce PC Bloatware

We're not quite sure what to think of Best Buy's new Software Installer. On one hand, this connected desktop application helps eliminate the unwanted bloatware that generally comes on new PCs, something we've mentioned time and again that we don't appreciate. On the other hand, the electronics retailer's Software Installer is another program that will come pre-installed on your PC or notebook (if you're buying it from Best Buy).

One of the somewhat useful features of the Software Installer is that it will manage electronic purchases. In other words, any purchase made through Software Installer will be saved in your account history. This will eliminate the need to save discs or remember key codes.

The Software Installer will come on all Asus, Gateway, Lenovo, Samsung, Sony and Toshiba desktops, laptops and netbooks sold by Best Buy. You can uninstall the application if you like. 

So will the Software Installer add to the amount of software on a PC or will it eliminate unnecessary software? You decide.

Best Buy® Debuts Shortcut to Software Selection for Windows® Vista & Windows® 7 Users

New Best Buy Software Installer connects software content and services for a simpler, personalized computing experience

MINNEAPOLIS--Best Buy (NYSE:BBY) puts the “personal” in personal computing with the launch of Software Installer, a connected desktop application to help consumers customize their new or upgrade their existing PCs and netbooks with the latest content, software and service solutions. Bringing together diverse offerings from leading software and service providers, Software Installer is now available via download at http://www.bestbuy.com/softwareinstaller, and is automatically included on selected PCs and netbooks sold at Best Buy stores and online.

Best Buy worked with leading PC manufacturers to reduce unwanted third-party trials and applications that typically come preloaded on new computers. In partnership with manufacturers and content providers, Best Buy is continuously updating the Software Installer offerings, allowing customers to choose the software and services they want from a library of creative, management, entertainment and information solutions for both individuals and small businesses. In addition to popular content, Software Installer manages electronic purchases; any purchase made through Software Installer is saved in the customer’s account history, eliminating the need to save discs or remember key codes.

“Software Installer is really a connectivity tool, developed for those of us who want to seamlessly transform our computers or netbooks into hard-working personal productivity machines or entertainment powerhouses,” said Jason Bonfig, vice president of computers at Best Buy. “It short-cuts the path to selecting reliable programs and services, and helps manage and record your transactions so you don’t have to.”

The Software Installer library includes an ever-expanding selection in categories that consumers say are of greatest interest to them. Many of the offers are available free, or with free trials, and include:

• Personal Money Management: Quickbooks Online, Wall Street Journal, Barron’s
• Personal Security: LoJack, LifeLock, Siber
• Personal Pictures & Videos: Smilebox; iMemories; MyPublisher; Nero; PhotoStamps; Roxio Creator 2010 and Photoshow
• Home/Small Office: Phonetag, 123Print, Constant Contact, CloudProfile, My Fax
• Movies, Music & Gaming: Cinema Now, Netflix, Gallapago, DreamDay Wedding, Turbo Subs, CrimeCraft, on Golf, Best Buy Games (core offering), Napster, Slacker, eMusic
• Family: Kidzui
• Tech Support: Geek Squad (selected offers and online support)

Consumers who purchase their computers and netbooks at Best Buy will find Software Installer pre-installed on all Asus, Gateway, Lenovo, Samsung, Sony and Toshiba desktops, laptops and netbooks. Those who have purchased their computing gear elsewhere can learn more about the tool and download it free at http://www.bestbuy.com/softwareinstaller. All users have the option of uninstalling Software Installer at any time, and there is no cost to using the tool for downloading and installing content or record-keeping. The only computer operating system requirement is Windows® Vista or Windows® 7.

Best Buy is one of America’s leading computing destinations, carrying 11 top computing brands (Acer, Apple, Asus, Compaq, Dell, Gateway, HP, Lenovo, Samsung, Sony and Toshiba). Best Buy Blueshirts are ready to help customers find the right computer and ensure they have everything they need to get up and running. Geek Squad is available to help set up that new gear, with Agents available in-store, in-home or online at geeksquad.com/remote support.