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It looks like ‘Android M’ will deliver one of Android fans’ most wanted features

Published May 7th, 2015 4:28PM EDT
Google Android M App Permissions

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Here’s some great news for Android fans who have been lobbying Google to do more to help protect their privacy. Bloomberg is reporting that Google is planning to give Android users significantly more control over what data Android applications can access as part of their app permissions.

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Specifically, Bloomberg writes that Android M will “is set to give users more detailed choices over what apps can access,” which “could include photos, contacts or location.” It sounds like Google is planning to give Android users more granular control over permissions so that you’ll be able to install an app without granting it all the requested permissions. Right now, Android apps are an all-or-nothing deal where you have to accept all permissions before installing the app.

This is, incidentally, one of the features that Android users frequently cite as one of the things they actually envy about iOS. Now if only Android M can deliver full device backup, a faster upgrade process and a better stock camera app, it will have fulfilled many Android fans’ biggest wishes.

Google is expected to take the wraps off Android M at Google I/O next month.

Brad Reed
Brad Reed Staff Writer

Brad Reed has written about technology for over eight years at BGR.com and Network World. Prior to that, he wrote freelance stories for political publications such as AlterNet and the American Prospect. He has a Master's Degree in Business and Economics Journalism from Boston University.