How to Review and Manage App Permissions During Android Setup
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Tested on
- Android 15 - Pixel 9 Pro
- You will need
- Android device, Wi-Fi connection
Step by step
Proceed to the Google Services screen
Follow the initial device configuration prompts until you reach the Google Services setup interface. This screen appears after signing into your Google account and configuring biometric authentication.
Review usage and diagnostic data
Expand the Google Services menu to view toggles for data collection. Disable 'Use location,' 'Allow scanning,' and 'Send usage and diagnostic data' if you prefer to restrict background data reporting.
Note: Disabling these options preserves battery life and limits data transmission to Google servers.Accept setup terms
After configuring the toggles, tap 'Accept.' This confirms your privacy preferences for the core system applications and Google Play services.
Audit application installation settings
If the setup wizard prompts you to restore data from a previous device, review the list of applications slated for installation. Deselect any bloatware or unnecessary apps to prevent them from requesting permissions later.
Note: Skipping the automated restore process provides a cleaner base for granular permission control.Access Permission Manager post-setup
Once the setup is complete and you reach the home screen, navigate to Settings > Apps > Permission manager. This interface allows you to view which apps have access to sensitive hardware like your Camera, Microphone, and Location.
Note: Review these settings periodically to revoke access for apps you no longer use actively.