Why do I have to grant so many permissions?
To make sure AppBlock works correctly, Android requires several permissions. These permissions allow AppBlock to block apps and websites reliably, apply schedules, and provide usage statistics.
Below is a full list of permissions AppBlock may request, along with an explanation of why each one is needed.
Usage Access (App Usage Statistics)
Why we need it:
This permission allows AppBlock to detect which app is currently running in the foreground. Without it, AppBlock cannot reliably block apps.
It is also used for Insights, allowing AppBlock to display both current and historical usage data (for example, after reinstalling the app).
Display Over Other Apps (Appear on Top)
Why we need it:
This permission allows AppBlock to display the Lock Screen over blocked apps. It prevents users from accessing an app even if they try to open it.
Alarm & Reminders
Why we need it:
This permission allows AppBlock to schedule time-based blocking rules and notifications. It ensures schedules start and end at the correct time, even if the app is not open.
Notifications (Post Notifications)
Why we need it:
This permission allows AppBlock to send notifications about schedules and blocking activity.
It is also important for keeping AppBlock’s background blocking service running properly, because Android may stop background services that do not have notification support.
Notification Access
Why we need it:
This permission allows AppBlock to identify which app sent a notification. It is required for the feature that blocks notifications from selected apps.
Location
Why we need it:
This permission is required for location-based blocking, so AppBlock can detect when you enter or leave a defined area.
It is also used for Wi-Fi based blocking, because AppBlock needs to detect which Wi-Fi networks are nearby.
Location permission must be enabled before creating a location-based schedule.
Accessibility
Why we need it:
Accessibility allows AppBlock to read the current screen and detect user interaction. This is required for advanced blocking features such as:
- blocking websites and keywords
- blocking access to device settings (or allowing only selected settings)
- blocking split screen
- blocking short-form content (reels/stories)
It is also optionally used for Insights to track website usage.
Device Admin
Why we need it:
This permission is required for Strict Mode, which prevents AppBlock from being uninstalled. It helps ensure that blocking cannot be bypassed by simply removing the app.
Summary:
Android permissions are necessary because Android restricts what apps can do in the background. Without these permissions, AppBlock may not be able to block apps consistently, apply schedules correctly, or provide all features.
If any permission is missing, some parts of AppBlock may not work as expected.
