WhatsApp Messenger Permissions
WhatsApp LLC
About App Permissions
What are app permissions?
Android apps request permissions to access certain features of your device. Before installing an app, it's important to understand what permissions it requires and why.
Below is a complete list of permissions requested by this app. Each permission includes a plain-language explanation of what it allows the app to do.
Permissions Overview
Device
5 permissions
Network
4 permissions
Storage
3 permissions
Other
6 permissions
Device Permissions
These permissions allow the app to access device hardware features like the camera, microphone, and sensors.
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android.permission.CAMERA
Camera
Allows the app to take photos and record videos using your device's camera. This is commonly used for profile pictures, sharing media, and video calls.
Medium -
android.permission.RECORD_AUDIO
Microphone
Allows the app to record audio using your device's microphone. Used for voice messages, voice calls, and voice search features.
Medium -
android.permission.VIBRATE
Vibration Control
Allows the app to control your device's vibration motor. Used for notification alerts and haptic feedback.
Low -
android.permission.WAKE_LOCK
Prevent Phone from Sleeping
Allows the app to prevent your device from going to sleep. Used to keep the screen on during calls or important activities.
Low -
android.permission.READ_CONTACTS
Read Contacts
Allows the app to read your contact list. Used to find friends who also use the app and to display contact names in the app.
Medium
Network Permissions
These permissions allow the app to access network features and communicate over the internet.
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android.permission.INTERNET
Full Network Access
Allows the app to send and receive data over the internet. Required for any app that needs to communicate with online services, download content, or sync data.
Low -
android.permission.ACCESS_NETWORK_STATE
View Network Connections
Allows the app to check if you're connected to the internet and what type of connection you have (WiFi or mobile data). Used to optimize data usage.
Low -
android.permission.ACCESS_WIFI_STATE
View WiFi Connections
Allows the app to view information about WiFi networking, such as whether WiFi is enabled and the name of connected WiFi devices.
Low -
android.permission.BLUETOOTH
Pair with Bluetooth Devices
Allows the app to connect to paired Bluetooth devices. Used for features like sharing files, connecting to wireless headphones, or smart watches.
Low
Storage Permissions
These permissions allow the app to read and write files on your device's storage.
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android.permission.READ_EXTERNAL_STORAGE
Read Photos and Files
Allows the app to read files from your device's storage, including photos, videos, and documents. Used to share and upload media from your gallery.
Medium -
android.permission.WRITE_EXTERNAL_STORAGE
Save Photos and Files
Allows the app to save files to your device's storage. Used to download media, save documents, and create backups.
Medium -
android.permission.READ_MEDIA_IMAGES
Access Photos
Allows the app to read image files from your photo library. This is a more limited permission introduced in Android 13 for privacy.
Low
Other Permissions
These are additional permissions required by the app for various features.
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android.permission.POST_NOTIFICATIONS
Show Notifications
Allows the app to display notifications on your device. Used to alert you about new messages, updates, and important events.
Low -
android.permission.ACCESS_FINE_LOCATION
Precise Location
Allows the app to access your precise GPS location. Used for location sharing, finding nearby contacts, and location-based features.
High -
android.permission.RECEIVE_BOOT_COMPLETED
Run at Startup
Allows the app to start automatically when your device boots up. Used to ensure you receive messages and notifications even after restarting your phone.
Low -
android.permission.FOREGROUND_SERVICE
Run in Background
Allows the app to run services in the foreground with a persistent notification. Used for ongoing tasks like music playback or call handling.
Low -
android.permission.USE_BIOMETRIC
Use Fingerprint/Face Unlock
Allows the app to use biometric authentication (fingerprint or face recognition) for secure login and authorization.
Low -
android.permission.REQUEST_INSTALL_PACKAGES
Request Install Packages
Allows the app to request permission to install other apps. May be used for in-app updates or downloading companion apps.
High
Understanding Risk Levels
Standard permissions that most apps need to function. These have minimal privacy impact.
Permissions that access personal data like contacts or media. Review these to ensure they match the app's features.
Sensitive permissions that can access your location, install apps, or access system features. Be cautious and verify the app is trustworthy.