Let us choose if we want windows integration on our devices

[GeeZerrr]

If I want Windows integration then I will download it. I shouldn't have to disable it.

[meself]

Don't have to use the apps

[GeeZerrr]

Duh, who knew.

[meself]

True

[realaud]

You don't have to disable it, just don't use it. It's not on by default.

[GeeZerrr]

You are correct, however, from a security standpoint, its installation should not be necessary in the first place. Furthermore, similar to any bloatware, it should be removable. Its integration appears to be the result of financial incentives.

[realaud]

I am reasonably vigilant about security, but not paranoid like some people here. I find what's built into the system not to be bloatware, as it's mostly useful to some people, and for those it is not, they don't have to turn it on or use it. Most that are not integral to function can be disabled by those who see everything as a threat or security hole. Those people should not actually be utilizing technology at all.

[GeeZerrr]

Well, I am not being paranoid, nor do I disregard the convenience I enjoy by using it. However, I would prefer to avoid having the same app available on both the Google Play Store and the Samsung Store. This is not limited to Microsoft applications; unique Samsung apps like GoodLock are acceptable. When one store informs me that an app will be updated to its version, it raises concerns about integrity. While it is important to be aware of the world around us, I would prefer to avoid conflicting updates between the two stores. I hold Sec+ and Net+ certifications.

[realaud]

The reason for the redundancy, is likely because many people use or have come from non-Samsung phones and certain apps are not Samsung exclusive, and the Galaxy store is not available on non-Samsung phones.  Apps in the Galaxy store may have some additional tweaks for Samsung phones and those with Samsung phones may want to switch to those versions.  Some people with Samsung phones don't like the Galaxy store because of the pop up ad that comes before you can navigate to anything, or are downloading multiple apps that are both Samsung and not Samsung and don't want to switch apps to download.  I also think that now that Samsung is completely under Google's thumb, they may eventually switch all apps to Google Play.  

I don't think it's a security hole to have the apps multiple places and, as you say, if you originally installed an app from one place and updating it from the other, you will get a warning and then make a decision on what to do.  Just because one gets that warning does not mean updating from the Galaxy store vs the Play store will have a negative effect on the currently installed app, just that it could if an app was tweaked just for Samsung.  That would not be the case for all apps, and if an app was originally installed from the Play store and tweaked for Samsung and is in the Galaxy store, I would think one would want to update to the Samsung app on a Samsung phone.

[GeeZerrr]

Very true.