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Controversy Erupts Over Samsung's Alleged Spyware AppCloud

11/17/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The AppCloud app on Samsung Galaxy phones is at the center of an online controversy, with critics labeling it unremovable spyware linked to Israel.
SMEX, a digital rights organization, alleges AppCloud collects sensitive user data without consent and may covertly install other software.
Some view AppCloud as bloatware.
The dispute has sparked pressure on Samsung and rumors of bans on Samsung phones in some countries.

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Story summary

The AppCloud app on Samsung Galaxy phones is at the center of an online controversy, with critics labeling it unremovable spyware linked to Israel.
SMEX, a digital rights organization, alleges AppCloud collects sensitive user data without consent and may covertly install other software.
Some view AppCloud as bloatware.
The dispute has sparked pressure on Samsung and rumors of bans on Samsung phones in some countries.