Android 12 was unveiled by Google at its I/O 2021 developer conference. With its profound UI redesign, numerous Pixel users have promptly embraced the Android 12 beta, resulting in the highest beta download rate in Android history. Alongside intriguing features like the wallpaper-based theming system and one-handed mode, Android 12 introduces a significant privacy enhancement: the “Privacy Dashboard.” This article delves into the functionality of the privacy dashboard and provides insights into its usage.
Understanding Android 12’s Privacy Dashboard (2021)
The Privacy Dashboard is currently available on Pixel phones running Android 12. If everything goes according to plan, the privacy feature could reach other Android 12 phones with OEM skins. So, here’s all you need to know about the privacy dashboard on Android.
What is Privacy Dashboard in Android 12?
The Privacy Dashboard is a new feature on Android to help users track apps accessing sensitive permissions. It neatly displays a timeline of apps that accessed your phone’s permissions in the last 24 hours. With the Privacy Dashboard, Android users can easily identify and uninstall rogue apps that may be snooping on their data.
- Location
- Camera
- Microphone
- Body sensors
- Calendar
- Call logs
- Contacts
- Files and media
- Nearby devices
- Phone
- Physical activity
- SMS
Timeline of app permissions for these categories isn’t available. Android 12 introduces access timelines for location, camera, and microphone permissions. Wider support for all permissions may come in future updates.
Using Android 12 Privacy Dashboard
To access the Privacy Dashboard, go to Settings and locate the “Privacy” section.
2. In Privacy settings, tap “Privacy dashboard”. You will see the visual representation of permissions accessed in the past 24 hours, resembling the Digital Wellbeing chart.
3. To see the list of apps that accessed specific permissions, like location, tap individual permission options below the chart. For example, to check the apps that accessed your location in the last 24 hours, tap “Location” and view the complete timeline. Android 12 will also display the duration for which apps accessed the permission below the app’s name, but that’s not available in Android 12 beta 2.
4. If you identify an app that shouldn’t access a permission, tap “Manage Permission” to revoke access. Pressing Manage Permission reveals all apps with that permission. Select the app from the list and tap to proceed.
5. You can now set the appropriate permission for the app. Notably, the “Use precise location” toggle is a new feature. Disabling it provides approximate location, sufficient in many cases. You can also deny permission entirely.
Access Privacy Dashboard on Any Android Phone
If your phone won’t receive Android 12 or if it’s uncertain when it will, you can utilize a third-party app, Privacy Dashboard, to mimic its features. This app provides a timeline of sensor access by other apps and allows you to disable permissions easily through the Settings menu: “Settings -> Privacy -> Permission manager.” Detailed instructions for acquiring the Android 12 privacy dashboard are available separately. Additionally, for other Android 12 features, refer to our linked guide.
Download Privacy Dashboard from Play Store (Free, offers in-app purchases)
Utilize Privacy Dashboard for App Monitoring on Android
Privacy Dashboard, among Google’s additions in Android 12, includes indicators, Quick Settings toggles for camera and microphone access, clipboard access alerts, and more. Android developers should utilize data auditing APIs to review permission requests. The Privacy Dashboard aids in safeguarding personal data on Android devices. What are your thoughts on this Android 12 privacy feature? Share below.
Pritam Chopra is a seasoned IT professional and a passionate blogger hailing from the dynamic realm of technology. With an insatiable curiosity for all things tech-related, Pritam has dedicated himself to exploring and unraveling the intricacies of the digital world.
