Changing app permissions on Android gives you control over what data and device features each application can access, enhancing both privacy and security. The process varies slightly depending on your Android version and device manufacturer, but follows a consistent core approach through either the Settings menu or direct app management. Most methods involve navigating to your device's Settings, selecting the specific app or permission type, and toggling access levels like "Allow," "Deny," or "Ask every time." Some newer Android versions also include automated features like permission auto-reset for unused apps.

Key findings from the sources:

• Two primary methods exist: Adjust permissions per app (via App Info) or by permission type (via Permission Manager) ^[1][3]
• Android 12+ introduces granular options: "All the time," "Allow only while using," "Ask every time," or "Don't allow" for location/camera/microphone ^[3][4]
• Manufacturer variations: Samsung, Xiaomi, and Google Pixel devices may have slightly different menu paths ^[2][10]
• Privacy Dashboard feature: Shows which apps accessed sensitive data in the last 24 hours (Android 12+) ^[4]

Managing Android App Permissions

Changing Permissions for Individual Apps

The most direct way to modify permissions is through each app's settings. This method works across nearly all Android devices, though menu names may differ slightly. Start by opening your device's Settings app - this is typically represented by a gear icon in your app drawer or quick settings panel. From there, locate the "Apps" or "Applications" section (some manufacturers like Samsung label this "App management" ^[5]).

Once in the Apps menu, you'll see a list of all installed applications. The process then follows these verified steps:

• Select the specific app you want to modify (e.g., Facebook, Google Maps)
• Tap "Permissions" or "App permissions" - this option appears after selecting the app ^[1][7]
• You'll see a list of all permission categories the app can request (Camera, Microphone, Location, etc.)
• Tap each permission category to change its status:
• "Allow" grants permanent access
• "Allow only while using the app" provides temporary access (Android 10+)
• "Ask every time" prompts you each time the app requests access
• "Deny" blocks access completely ^[3]

Some apps may stop functioning properly if critical permissions are denied. For example, Google Maps requires location access for navigation features, while camera apps need camera permission to take photos ^[1]. The system will often warn you when disabling a permission might affect core functionality.

Managing Permissions by Type

For broader control, Android offers a Permission Manager that lets you view and modify all apps that have access to specific device features. This approach is particularly useful when you want to:

• See which apps can access your location
• Review all apps with camera/microphone permissions
• Bulk-revoke permissions for sensitive features

To access this:

1. Open Settings and navigate to "Security & Privacy" > "Privacy" > "Permission manager" ^[3][9]
2. Select a permission type (e.g., "Location," "Camera," "Microphone")
3. You'll see all apps that have requested this permission, grouped by status: - "Allowed" (apps with current access) - "Denied" (apps without access) - "Ask every time" (apps that prompt each use)
4. Tap any app to change its permission status ^[9]

Android 12 and later versions include additional privacy features in this section:

• Privacy Dashboard: Shows a timeline of when apps accessed sensitive permissions in the last 24 hours ^[4]
• Auto-reset permissions: Automatically revokes permissions for apps you haven't used in several months ^[4]
• Camera/Microphone indicators: Shows active access with status bar icons and quick settings toggles ^[4]

For Samsung devices specifically, the path is slightly different:

1. Go to Settings > Apps
2. Tap the three-dot menu > "Permission manager"
3. Select a permission type to view and modify app access ^[10]

Important Considerations

While managing permissions enhances privacy, some key points require attention:

• App functionality: Many apps need specific permissions to work correctly. Denying location to a maps app or camera access to a scanning app will break core features ^[1]
• System apps: Some pre-installed apps may have permissions that can't be fully revoked without root access ^[7]
• Permission groups: Android organizes permissions into groups (e.g., "Location" includes both precise and approximate location) ^[3]
• Background access: The "All the time" option for location allows apps to track you even when not in use ^[3]
• Third-party tools: While some apps claim to manage permissions, Android's built-in tools are generally sufficient and safer ^[6]

For advanced users, Android's Data Safety section in the Play Store shows how apps use your data before installation, helping make informed decisions about which permissions to grant ^[4]. Regularly reviewing permissions (especially after app updates) is recommended as apps may request new permissions over time ^[5].