Why do I have to grant so many permissions?

To make sure AppBlock works correctly, Android requires several permissions. These allow AppBlock to block apps and websites reliably, apply schedules, and provide usage statistics. Here’s exactly what each permission does and why we need it.

Usage Access (App Usage Statistics)

This permission allows AppBlock to detect which app is currently running in the foreground. Without it, AppBlock cannot reliably block apps.

It’s also used for Statistics, allowing AppBlock to display both current and historical usage data — including after reinstalling the app.

Display Over Other Apps (Appear on Top)

This permission allows AppBlock to display the block screen over blocked apps, preventing you from accessing them even if you try to open them.

Alarm & Reminders

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 isn’t open.

Notifications (Post Notifications)

This permission allows AppBlock to send notifications about schedules and blocking activity.

It’s also important for keeping AppBlock’s background blocking service running, because Android may stop background services that don’t have notification support.

Notification Access

This permission allows AppBlock to identify which app sent a notification. It’s required for the feature that blocks notifications from selected apps.

Location

This permission is required for location-based blocking, so AppBlock can detect when you enter or leave a defined area.

It’s 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 or Wi-Fi schedule.

Accessibility

Accessibility allows AppBlock to read the current screen and detect user interaction. This is required for advanced blocking features, including:

• Blocking websites and keywords in supported browsers.
• Blocking access to device Settings or allowing only selected Settings.
• Blocking split screen.
• Blocking short-form content (Reels, Shorts, Stories).

It’s also optionally used for Statistics to track website usage.

Device Admin

This permission is required for Strict Mode — specifically the option that prevents AppBlock from being uninstalled. It ensures blocking can’t 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 its features.

If any permission is missing, some parts of AppBlock may not work as expected.