Companion devices, such as smartwatches, fitness trackers, wireless earbuds, and certain smart accessories, are designed to work closely with Android phones and tablets. For these devices to function smoothly, the companion device needs a set of permissions that allow secure and reliable communication with the main Android device. Understanding these permissions helps users stay informed about what data is shared and why it matters for device performance.

Understanding Companion Devices on Android

A companion device is any external device that connects to an Android phone to extend its functionality. These devices can include wearables, smart home controllers, car infotainment systems, and more. Android uses a feature called Companion Device Manager (CDM) to help apps register and manage these devices efficiently without unnecessary battery or security risks.

Key Permissions Needed by Companion Devices

To operate properly, a companion device or its supporting app often requires several important permissions on the Android device. The exact permissions may vary depending on the type of device, but the most common ones include:

Bluetooth Access

Most companion devices rely on Bluetooth to pair and communicate with the Android device. Bluetooth permissions allow the companion device to establish and maintain a wireless connection, transfer data, and sync in real time.

Location Permission

Although it may seem unrelated, many Android versions require location access to scan for nearby Bluetooth devices. This means that apps managing companion devices may request location permissions to enable Bluetooth discovery and pairing. For example, when setting up a fitness tracker, the app may need access to the device’s location settings even if it doesn’t use GPS directly.

Notification Access

Some companion devices, especially smartwatches or fitness bands, need access to the Android device’s notifications. Granting this permission allows the companion device to mirror calls, messages, app alerts, and calendar reminders on the external screen.

Physical Activity and Health Data

If the companion device tracks fitness metrics, such as steps, heart rate, or sleep, the associated app may request access to physical activity data. On newer Android versions, this permission is managed through the system’s Health or Fitness data access settings.

Background Activity and Battery Optimization Exemption

To maintain a stable connection and operate smoothly in the background, some apps for companion devices may request permission to run without battery restrictions. Disabling battery optimization helps the companion device stay connected and receive updates or notifications even when the main phone is idle.

Nearby Devices Permission

Introduced in newer Android versions, this permission is more specific than general location access. It allows apps to discover, connect, and interact with nearby devices over Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or other local communication methods without accessing location data directly.

Internet and Network Access

Many companion devices need internet access for updates, syncing with cloud services, or streaming. Their apps often request network-related permissions to connect through Wi-Fi or mobile data.

Is It Safe to Grant These Permissions?

In most cases, granting these permissions is safe, especially when the companion device is made by a trusted manufacturer. However, it’s always a good idea to:

Review the app’s privacy policy
Only install official apps from the Play Store
Check the permissions in your Android settings and revoke anything that seems unnecessary
Monitor battery and data usage to ensure the companion device app isn’t overusing resources

Conclusion

Companion devices need several key permissions to function properly with an Android phone. These include access to Bluetooth, notifications, location services, and background activity. Each permission supports a specific function, whether it’s syncing health data or showing alerts on your wrist. Understanding these permissions helps you make informed choices about your device’s security, performance, and privacy.

What permissions does a companion device need to function properly?