On 6/5/2012 2:44 PM, Nathan wrote:
On Saturday, June 2, 2012 10:32:11 AM UTC-7, omoling wrote: > as some SMS managing app requiring access to log files Says who? So apps are not allowed to be concerned about diagnosing problems for their users, letting them send this log to get problems fixed? That is what log files are actually used for by most developers.
Chiming in briefly: That's what I use log files for in my game. In fact the Google crash reports are almost completely and totally useless for my NDK-based game.
> and running applications or games requiring permission to send SMS > messages. Until the users bug them about being able to send scores and achievements over sms without leaving the app.
In this case: If you just make an Intent marked as SEND, it will pop up with a list of options as to how to send it, including messaging and email. Granted you MIGHT want to send scores so frequently that sending from the app itself would be preferable, but IMO it would be too much work to add a complete SMS app to a game instead of deferring to the user's favorite app.
It doesn't matter what explanation you post, this comment will bring down your sales, because no one reads your description and everyone reads the comment. When it comes to permissions, apps are guilty until ... no, there is no until, they are just guilty.
Happily I haven't had people complain about the LOG permission for a long time. Or maybe those that have are drowned out by people who are, you know, actually rating the app.
3. There is no way to ask for permissions on demand. Permission X may only be used by those using feature Y or who have enabled setting Z.
Oh, but wouldn't it be nice to have the option! Especially for READ_LOG. Fewer than 1% of my app's runs crash -- maybe a tenth that -- so I don't REALLY need the permission except for that case.
While we're at it, though, adding an API for "give me ONLY log messages related to my app" that doesn't need a permission at all would solve that problem completely, at least for me. I apply that filter to the log before sending it to me anyway.
6. Any application you have ever installed on Windows probably has greater permissions than any app you've ever installed on your phone. Yet - you've probably installed tons of them.
THIS is huge! Even if you've got firewalls installed on Windows, many apps need to "phone home" one way or another, and if you trust them, you need to let them. Aside from that, they have complete access to all your files, contacts, emails, and any unencrypted data stored by your IM software (so potentially all your chats as well). Oh, and to your video camera and microphone as well.
Your app can do some good if it can educate users and bring balance to the permissions question. If it does not, I hope (selfishly) that it never becomes popular.
I second the motion. Tim -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Android Discuss" group. To post to this group, send email to [email protected]. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to [email protected]. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/android-discuss?hl=en.
