In a proactive move to protect user privacy, Google has unveiled a new Photos and Video Permissions policy that aims to limit access to sensitive user data on Android devices. Recognising that photos and videos are considered personal and sensitive user data, the tech giant emphasizes the need for developers to adopt best practices in handling this information. The policy is designed to minimise unnecessary access and reduce the burden on developers to manage sensitive data.
As part of this initiative, Google is mandating that only apps with a legitimate need for broad access to photos and videos will be allowed to retain the READ_MEDIA_IMAGES and READ_MEDIA_VIDEO permissions. For apps that require only one-time or limited access, developers need to utilise the Android photo picker – a feature that integrates seamlessly into applications without the need for additional storage permissions. This picker, launched last year, allows users to grant access to selected images and videos instead of exposing their entire media library.
Google announced the Photos and Video Permissions policy on October 28, 2023. Starting September 18, 2024, developers will be prompted through the Play Console to either submit a declaration form to justify their use of the permissions or remove them if their access is deemed one-time or infrequent.
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For apps needing only temporary access, developers must eliminate the READ_MEDIA_IMAGES and READ_MEDIA_VIDEO permissions from their app manifest and migrate to the system photo picker. Conversely, those aiming to maintain broad access must successfully submit a declaration and demonstrate a core use case justifying persistent or frequent access.
Developers will have until October 31, 2024, to submit their declarations. Apps that fail to comply will be blocked from receiving updates. Additionally, a self-service option for requesting an extension will be available, allowing developers until January 22, 2025, to achieve compliance. After this date, all non-compliant apps will be removed from the Google Play Store.
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