Decision sheet — Android & iPhone
Background location: do you need it?
You are deciding whether an app needs background location.
Verdict
Only if needed
An app needs broader permission to receive location while it is not in use. Decide whether the benefit justifies continuous access.
How to check
- Identify the specific alert or feature that requires background updates.
- Review the system permission and app data policy.
- Disable background access when the feature is no longer needed.
The honest limit
Background updates can still stop when a device is offline, off or otherwise limited.
Official source: Android Help: manage app location permissions