Android app permissions explained in plain words
By AltFTool Team · Updated 1 Nov 2026
Android sorts permissions by risk. Low-risk ones are granted when you install. Sensitive ones need your OK in a pop-up. A few powerful ones must be switched on by hand in Settings.
The three kinds of permission
- Granted at install (normal): internet, network state, vibration, keeping the screen awake. Low risk, no prompt.
- Android asks first (runtime): camera, microphone, photos and media, location, contacts. You can allow, allow only while using the app, or deny.
- You enable in Settings (special): display over other apps, install unknown apps, all-files access, usage access. Off until you turn them on.
How to review or remove a permission
- 1
Open the app's info page
Long-press the app icon and tap App info (or Settings > Apps > the app).
- 2
Tap Permissions
You see what is allowed and what is not.
- 3
Change it
Tap any permission and choose Don't allow or Ask every time. The app keeps working; features that need it will ask again.
Built-in protections worth knowing
- Android 11+ resets permissions of apps you have not used for a few months.
- Android 12+ shows a green dot when the camera or microphone is in use.
- Android 13+ lets you share only selected photos instead of the whole gallery.
Permissions used by AltFTool apps
Read from each APK. Amber chips are the ones Android asks about or you must enable.
Questions
Why does a speed test app need internet access?
It has to download and upload test data to measure your connection. Internet access is a normal permission and Android grants it without asking.
Is 'Display over other apps' dangerous?
It can be misused to draw fake screens over other apps, which is why Android keeps it off until you switch it on yourself. Only allow it for apps that clearly need a floating window.
