It has been a few days since Google released Android 4.3 Jelly Bean. One of the hidden features that many Android users may not have noticed is the permissions manager – App Ops. The feature is hidden by default but it can be enabled either from within the device or by using a third-party application. I think it is something similar to the privacy feature in iOS that allows users to fine-tune app permissions to access your contacts, camera app, photos, etc.
Understanding App Ops
The application is up in Google Play Store dubbed as Permissions Manager that allows you to access the App Ops feature easily. Do note that this application will only work if you are using Android 4.3 Jelly Bean on your device. App Ops provides a granular level of control over the permissions that each app on your device can access. For instance, you can restrict an app from accessing your location, reading your contacts, or using your camera. This level of control can be particularly useful for users who are concerned about their privacy and want to ensure that apps are not overstepping their boundaries.
The feature is hidden, which means that it is not fully ready for use. Otherwise, I don’t see a reason why Google made it a hidden feature in the first place. Before using it, keep this thing in mind that there are chances that you will come across bugs and problems. However, for those who are willing to take the risk, App Ops can provide a significant boost to your privacy and security.
How to Enable App Ops
To enable App Ops, you can either navigate through your device settings or use a third-party application. If you choose to go through the device settings, you will need to access the developer options. This can be done by going to Settings > About Phone and tapping on the build number multiple times until developer mode is enabled. Once in developer mode, you can find the App Ops feature under the developer options menu.
Alternatively, you can download a third-party application from the Google Play Store, such as Permissions Manager. This app simplifies the process by providing a user-friendly interface to access App Ops without having to navigate through the developer options.
The Permissions Manager app is particularly useful for those who are not tech-savvy and prefer a straightforward way to manage app permissions. It is important to note that while this app makes it easier to access App Ops, it still requires Android 4.3 Jelly Bean to function.
Potential Issues and Considerations
While App Ops offers a promising way to manage app permissions, it is not without its drawbacks. Since the feature is hidden and not fully developed, users may encounter bugs and other issues. For example, restricting certain permissions might cause apps to malfunction or crash. This is because many apps are designed to function with specific permissions enabled, and disabling these permissions can disrupt their normal operation.
Moreover, there is a possibility that Google may remove or alter this feature in future updates. As it stands, App Ops is a hidden feature, which suggests that Google is still testing its viability and functionality. Users who rely heavily on this feature should be prepared for potential changes in future Android versions.
Despite these potential issues, the introduction of App Ops is a step in the right direction for Android. It shows that Google is taking user privacy seriously and is working towards providing more control over app permissions. This feature, once fully developed, could become a standard part of the Android operating system, offering users greater peace of mind when it comes to their personal data.
What do you think about this new feature?
Source: Engadget – Google Play Store
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