New Android permissions

We released an update to our Android app last week that contains a change to Android permissions. In a major update since Android 6.0 Marshmallow, users are now asked to allow apps access to individual permissions. Up until now each app listed all of the required permissions and you agreed to all or you just didn’t download the app.

Vyke is a simple to use app but in order to make and receive calls, and share with friends and family, the app needs access to various permissions. We take your privacy very seriously and we do not share or sell your private data, or use it for any other reason than giving you the best possible Vyke experience.

The most confusion has come from the permission Android refers to this as “Record audio”. We do not record audio without your permission, but we do allow you to send audio messages and set up a voicemail greeting. We also need access to your microphone so you can make and receive calls. It’s important to note that WhatsApp, Skype, Viber and even Facebook all ask for all of the same permissions and Vyke has always asked for these Android permissions, it’s just the layout which has changed.

To toggle your Vyke permissions select Settings > Apps > Vyke >Permissions or view the Google support page.

What permissions do we need and why?

1. Camera: To share photos and videos with friends and family from the app, Vyke needs access to your photos, media and files.
2. Contacts: If you want to call and text your existing phone book Vyke needs access to your Contacts.
3. Location: You only need to allow this if you want to send your location to a friend in a chat message.
4. Microphone: Without allowing Vyke access to record audio you will not be able to make calls, send audio messages or add voicemail greetings.
5. SMS: So you can send low cost texts from Vyke.
6. Storage: This allows us to display your Profile pictures.
7. Telephone: The app needs access to make and manage phone calls so you make and receive phone calls.

If you require any further info please email us at support@vyke.com or message us on Facebook or Twitter.