What is App Ops on Android 4.3 and where can I find it?

With Android version 4.3, Google has integrated the "App Ops" function into the operating system. Like most other changes, this is rather hidden and not visible on the surface. Find out what app ops is and how to use it in this practical tip.

That's why you need App Ops on Android 4.3

App Ops is used to manage the permissions that the individual apps require. Specifically, it enables a special authorization to be withdrawn from an application. This can be useful if an app wants to spy on data through authorizations - which it actually doesn't need. For example, if you have downloaded a flashlight app that has the authorization to read SMS, you can withdraw this authorization from the program with App Ops.

• Even before Android 4.3 apps existed that enabled such a function, they required root access to the device. With App Ops, this is no longer necessary.
• You can find out more about permissions on Android in this practical tip.

With these commands you open App Ops

So far, the function has not yet been visibly integrated into the system. App Ops is not simply accessible via the settings, but has to be opened with the appropriate commands. This is particularly easy with an external app from the Google Play Store, which practically serves as a link. For example, the "App Ops Starter" tool, which you can download free of charge on any device with Android 4.3, is popular.

• After downloading, click on the app and go directly to App Ops. There you will see apps organized in various areas such as "Location" or "Personal". You can then tap the apps and switch off individual authorizations.
• Handle the function carefully! If you revoke permissions from an app that it actually needs, it may no longer work properly.

These instructions refer to the Google Nexus 7 with Android 4.3.