Most permission requests map directly to a feature you can see. The ones worth a second look are the ones that do not.
Permissions that are usually reasonable
| Permission | Common reason |
|---|---|
| Camera | Scanning a code, uploading a profile photo |
| Notifications | Order or account alerts you opted into |
| Contacts | Finding friends already using the app (should be opt-in, not automatic) |
| Location (while using) | Local offers, delivery, or store finder features |
Permissions worth questioning
- Location “always,” not “while using.” Few consumer apps need background location. If a feature does not obviously depend on continuous location, decline and see if anything breaks.
- Full contacts access with no opt-in prompt explaining why. Contact syncing should be a clearly explained, separate choice, not bundled into general onboarding.
- Microphone access with no voice feature in the app. If you cannot find a voice or call feature, there is no reason for this permission to be requested at all.
How to review permissions after installing
iOS: Settings → [App name] → toggle any permission the app does not need.
Android: Settings → Apps → [App name] → Permissions → adjust each one, or set to “Ask every time” where available.
A reasonable rule of thumb
Grant a permission when you are about to use the feature that needs it, not during onboarding “just in case.” Most apps re-prompt when a feature actually requires access.
Related reading
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Offer and code details change without notice. We record the date we last checked them — see “Last verified” above — rather than claiming permanent accuracy. Always confirm current terms on the provider’s own site before acting.
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