unwanted apps automatically loading after factory reset

[teblomgren]

I've done a factory reset multiple times on my Note 3 and as soon as it is powered back on many apps that I NEVER put on my phone automatically start loading. One is SMS Relay...which I have not loaded to my phone.

 

[zipred]

I've done a factory reset multiple times on my Note 3 and as soon as it is powered back on many apps that I NEVER put on my phone automatically start loading. One is SMS Relay...which I have not loaded to my phone.

The key to success is to progress slowly upon proceeding through the setup routine after the reset is completed. You will be presented with a few screens to read as you move forward.

One of which will have checkboxes and questions. It will offer to backup and restore automatically, it will also have checkmarks which you must uncheck.

Once you do that all the apps you've purchased using that account no matter what handset you ordered them for, will not be installed on your phone. Upon completion of setup you'll have the phone without any of your apps on it. A complete fresh start.

 

[UncleMike]

But the OP days that the offending apps were never installed (by the OP) in the first place. Is it possible that the stock firmware installs these apps as a post-setup step?

Also, if the device is rooted it's possible that there are non-stock apps that aren't being removed by a factory reset.