In recent days, reports have emerged regarding the automatic installation of the HP Smart app on Windows 11 and Windows 10 through the Microsoft Store. This has created confusion among users, since the app is typically preinstalled only on HP devices. However, it seems that the Microsoft Store is executing an automatic installation even on non-HP machines.
The Isolated Case of HP Smart’s Auto-Installation
The HP Smart app is designed to help users manage their HP printers. Normally, it is installed by default on HP devices but should not be present on PCs or printers from other brands. Despite this, several reports have confirmed that the app is being installed automatically through the Microsoft Store, without any connection to HP devices.
The phenomenon has caused concern and confusion among users who have noticed the unwanted app in the Start menu. Tests have confirmed that the installation takes place on all versions of Windows that utilize the Microsoft Store, including Windows 11 23H2 or 22H2 and Windows 10.
Microsoft’s Interest in the Case
Microsoft is aware of the reports regarding the auto-installation of HP Smart and has declared to be current with the situation. The company is investigating the issue and promises to provide further details soon.
At the moment, it is not yet clear what is causing the automatic installation of HP Smart on non-HP systems. It is, however, an official and harmless app, but for those who want to remove it, it is possible to do so manually by following a few simple steps.
How to Manually Remove the HP Smart App
Until the issue is not resolved, it is possible to manually remove the HP Smart app from Windows 10 or Windows 11. Here is how to proceed:
- Open the Start menu.
- Find the HP Smart app.
- Click with the right mouse button on the app.
- Select ‘Uninstall’ from the popup menu.
By following these steps, it will be possible to remove the HP Smart app from the system. However, it is important to underline that this is a safe and authorized app, so if you own an HP printer, it might be useful to keep it to enjoy all its functionalities.