How to Review and Manage iPad App Permissions

Difficulty
Beginner
Tested on
iPadOS 18.4 - iPad Pro (M4)
You will need
iPad running iPadOS 18 or later

Step by step

  1. 15 sec

    Open Privacy Settings

    Launch the Settings app from your Home Screen or Dock. Scroll down the left-hand sidebar and tap on Privacy & Security.

  2. 45 sec

    Identify Permission Categories

    Locate the list of system services and hardware resources, such as Location Services, Camera, Microphone, and Photos. Each category represents a specific type of data or hardware the apps on your device may be requesting to access.

    Note: Focus on high-risk categories like Location Services and Photos first.
  3. 1 min

    Select a Resource Category

    Tap on a specific category, such as Camera. You will see a list of all apps that have requested permission to use that resource.

  4. 30 sec

    Adjust App Access

    Review the toggle switches next to each app name. Tap the switch to revoke access (toggle to off) or grant access (toggle to on) for that specific app.

    Note: Some categories offer 'While Using the App' vs 'Always' options for more granular control.
  5. 45 sec

    Check App-Level Permissions

    Return to the main Settings menu. Scroll down the sidebar until you reach the section listing individual apps. Tap on any app to view its specific permission configuration page.

    Note: This provides a reverse view of all permissions granted to one specific application.
  6. 15 sec

    Verify Settings

    Close the Settings app. Your changes take effect immediately, and apps will prompt you again if they require access that you have explicitly revoked.