Google Offers Users More Control Over Sharing Data with Android Apps

Google unveiled a new way for users of Android mobile devices to select what information they want to share with apps, in an effort to be more transparent about the user data being collected. Under the new system, users will be able to download an app without agreeing to share multiple types of data, which can include their location, contacts or images from the phone’s camera. Until now, Android users had to agree to all the permissions an app sought in order to download the app.

Google said it expects the change will prompt developers to request fewer types of data, or none, when an app is first downloaded. It expects more apps to seek permission for specific types of data, such as location, when it’s needed. Users will be able to decline those requests, though the app may be less useful. The move will bring Android closer to the way Apple devices request user permission. On Apple’s iOS mobile-operating system, there are no permissions when apps are installed. Apps later ask to access data such as photos or locations when users tap those features. Google hopes its changes, championed by product chief Sundar Pichai, will help users can make more informed decisions, and ultimately, download more apps.