The Settings app on your phone uses core system software called Settings Services. The software allows setup, connection, and customization for settings on your phone and certain app settings.
The system gives permissions to Settings Services for things like displaying information about network connections and connected devices, setting rules for when to activate do not disturb mode, or sending notifications.
Types of permissions
Mobile network connectionRules can help automate location-dependent changes that you regularly make in Settings, such as switching your phone to silent when you get to work. Rules needs all-the-time location access to work correctly. Location data stays on your phone and is not sent to Google. You can change location permissions and Rules settings.
Change location permission
- On your phone, open the Settings app.
- Tap Location
App location permissions.
- Tap Menu
- Under “Location access for this app,” choose a setting:
- Allow all the time.
- Allow only when using the app.
- Ask every time.
- Don’t allow.
- Turn Use precise location on or off.
App location permissions.
Change Rules settings
- On your phone, open the Settings app.
- Tap System
- Turn on or off Always allow location for rules.
- Turn on or off Automatically suggest rules.
How Google uses your information
If your phone’s usage and diagnostics setting is on, Google may collect certain info to analyze and improve your experience. For example, Settings Services may collect phone or other IDs, app interactions, crash logs, and diagnostics. Data is encrypted in transit and Google uses this data in accordance with Google's Privacy Policy. Learn more about sharing usage and diagnostics information with Google.
Change usage & diagnostics setting
- On your phone, open the Settings app.
- Tap Privacy
- Turn on or off Usage & diagnostics.
Learn more about data access at the Privacy Help Center.