New Google Play Store rules to redefine how apps use Android’s call log and SMS permissions

In what could be a big blow to the majority of apps on Google Play Store, the new set of rules have been implemented in order to grant “SMS” and “Call Log” access to only certain types of apps. As a result, these new Play Store policies are expected to redefine the way apps use Android’s “Call Log” and “SMS” permissions. What’s more, apps failing to comply with these new policies implemented by Google will cease to exist on the Play Store.

To recall, Google announced these policies in October last year but they started taking actions on non-compliant apps under those new set of policies starting this week. During the announcement, this is what Google had to say:

"Only an app that has been selected as a user's default app for making calls or text messages will be able to access call logs and SMS, respectively."

For example, apps like Truecaller seek permissions to access your Android’s Call Logs and SMS. One needs to understand that Truecaller is never a default calling and SMS apps on most phones. But given that these new rules also bear some exceptions, these policies may not necessarily affect apps like Truecaller.

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Google goes to explain the use of SMS or Call Log permission groups going forward. Google firmly states that it plans to control “high risk or sensitive permissions” including the SMS or Call Log permission groups.

Nonetheless, Google lets developers request to get their apps approved on Play Store. Google instructs developers to remove SMS or Call Log permission in case their apps don’t need access to Android’s Call Log or SMS permissions in the first place. But in case access to Call Log or SMS permissions are required, developers need to submit a Permissions Declaration Form immediately to get their apps reviewed.

This is what Google as to say on its support page:

“You should only access Call Log or SMS permissions when your app falls within permitted uses, and only to enable your app’s core functionality. Core functionality is defined as the main purpose of the app. It's the feature most prominently documented and promoted in the app’s description; no other feature is more central to the app’s functionality. If this feature isn't provided, the app is “broken” or rendered unusable (i.e., app is deprived of its primary functionality and will not perform as a user would expect).”