Why Android Fragmentation Is Still a Problem

"Buy an Android phone that's not an unlocked Samsung Galaxy Nexus, and you'll be stuck with 10 or more apps that try and force you to sign up for additional monthly fees, or force you into carrier-approved app stores and services that are usually worse than alternative third-party offerings. You can't remove these programs to free up space, either, or even delete their icons, unlike with a PC."

You can't delete them, but you can disable them (since at least ICS) so that they only show up in the Settings -> Apps -> All listing.

Because OEMs won't do anything until consumers get smarter and vote with their wallets or Google strong-arms them.

A "Google stamp of approval" for devices outside of the Nexus line with similar software and hardware standards would do wonders.

When I think of this problem, I wonder, was Android developed for the end user, or the device manufacturers?