Google is easing the burden on phone manufacturers using its Android operating system, dropping four apps from the list that phone makers must install in order to get access to Googles Play Store app.

The move will give manufacturers greater flexibility when it comes to deciding what elements to include, and allow them to either add additional apps of their own, or free up some memory space for consumers on future designs.

According to the Wall Street Journal, the apps dropped from the pre-install list are Google Newstand, Google Play Games, Google Play Books and the companys ill-fated social network Google+, which recently lost its place as the companys primary unified log-in.

None of the apps were especially popular with users, and taking them off reduces the number of prerequisite apps to 11, including the Google Play Store, suggesting that Google is paring the list down to just the essential features, such as email, calendar and maps.

Earlier this year, European antitrust authorities launched an investigation into Googles handling of the Android operating system, including the rules that the firm imposes on manufacturers if they wish to get access to Google services and apps. The change may be a move to appease the authorities and show that the company is willing to meet lawmakers halfway.