Since the introduction of Android 6.0 Marshmallow in 2015, users have been granted significant control over app permissions, allowing them to dictate what information and features applications can access on their devices. As smartphones increasingly house sensitive data—from cherished family photos to critical financial information—the importance of managing these permissions has never been more pronounced. Android’s comprehensive permission system empowers users to restrict apps from accessing certain facets of their digital lives, ensuring a more secure smartphone experience.
What are Android app permissions?
Android app permissions serve as a gatekeeper, determining what an application can access and perform on a device. This encompasses a wide range of functionalities, from reading stored data like SMS messages and media files to utilizing hardware components such as the camera and microphone. When users grant permission, they enable the app to utilize these features; conversely, denying access prevents the app from doing so.
Permission requests typically appear when launching an app for the first time.
Apps cannot autonomously grant themselves permissions; users must confirm each request through an on-screen prompt. Upon first launching an app, users will encounter a popup asking them to “Allow” or “Deny” each permission request. If permissions are denied or if an app is updated to require new permissions, the prompt will reappear upon subsequent launches. Well-designed modern apps often continue to function even with denied permissions, although features reliant on those permissions—such as location services—will be rendered inactive. Users can always revisit their choices and adjust permissions later.
Android permissions explained
While many of Android’s app permissions are self-explanatory, here’s a concise breakdown of what each permission entails:
- Body Sensors: Access to health data and step counts from connected devices.
- Calendar: Ability to read, create, edit, or delete calendar events.
- Call logs: Permission to read and write phone call logs.
- Camera: Access for taking photos, recording videos, and streaming.
- Contacts: Capability to read, create, or edit the contact list and access account information.
- Files and media: Access to files, media, and photos stored on the device.
- Location: Access to the device’s location using GPS and other methods, with options for approximate sharing.
- Microphone: Used for audio and video recording.
- Nearby devices: Ability to find and connect to other devices in proximity.
- Notifications: Permission to send notifications.
- Phone: Access to phone number and network information, essential for making calls.
- Physical activity: Access to logs related to physical activity.
- SMS: Capability to read, receive, and send SMS and MMS messages.
To view or modify permissions for a specific app, users can navigate to the Apps menu, select the desired app, and then click on Permissions. This section provides a clear overview of granted or denied permissions, allowing users to make adjustments as needed.
How to grant or deny Android permissions on a per-app basis
To check the permissions enabled for a specific app, access the Apps menu, select the app, and tap on Permissions. Here, users can see which permissions have been granted or denied and can modify these settings accordingly. Depending on the permission type, options may include Allow, Deny, or more nuanced choices such as Allow while using the app, Ask every time, and Don’t allow. It is advisable to select the first option only for apps that are fully trusted.
How to check Android permissions by type
For those who prefer a broader view of permissions, users can sort apps by specific permissions. By navigating to the Settings menu and selecting the Privacy tab, users can access the Permission Manager. This feature allows exploration of all permissions available on the device, along with a summary of how many apps have been granted each permission. Clicking on any permission reveals the apps that have requested it, enabling users to make informed decisions regarding access.
Which Android app permissions to allow and deny?
One of the most effective strategies for safeguarding personal data is to deny unnecessary permissions. A notable example is the surge of flashlight apps in 2014 that requested access to contacts and microphones, often for dubious purposes. While reputable developers typically request only the permissions essential for their applications, users should remain vigilant and discerning.
Always evaluate whether the requested permission aligns with the app’s functionality.
It is prudent to question the appropriateness of each permission request. For instance, messaging apps will likely require access to contacts, SMS, and possibly the camera and microphone for video calls. However, they should not need access to health data. Conversely, a smartwatch companion app may require health-related permissions. Users can review permission requests prior to installation by checking the app description in the Google Play Store, where responsible developers will clarify the necessity of each permission.
Android camera and mic permissions
With the advent of Android 12, users gained enhanced transparency and control over app access to sensitive data. Quick settings toggles now allow users to disable camera and microphone permissions for all apps, providing peace of mind during moments when privacy is paramount. Additionally, a notification appears when an app accesses these features, ensuring users are aware of any potential broadcasting.
Users can now deactivate camera and mic permissions for all applications.
The Android Privacy Dashboard, introduced in Android 12, offers insights into app permissions used over the past 24 hours, including frequency and specific apps involved. Although not a tool most users check regularly, it serves as a valuable resource for identifying apps that may be misusing permissions. Furthermore, Android 13 introduced a new photo picker feature that allows users to select specific media for sharing without granting full file system access, a change that may gain traction as developers adapt to newer Android versions.
