Why Does This App Need Nearby Devices?
The 'Nearby devices' permission on Android lets apps scan your Wi-Fi and Bluetooth environment to detect nearby devices, networks and beacons. According to TikTok's privacy policy, they collect 'information about nearby Wi-Fi access points and Bluetooth devices' as part of their automatic data collection. This data can reveal your precise indoor location and the devices around you.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does the 'Nearby devices' permission do on Android?
The 'Nearby devices' permission (introduced in Android 12) allows apps to scan for nearby Bluetooth and Wi-Fi devices without requiring location permission. It can be used for features like connecting to smart devices, but it also enables location inference from nearby device signals. TikTok and Facebook both list nearby device data in their privacy policies.
Can apps use 'Nearby devices' to track my location?
Yes. By scanning for known Wi-Fi networks and Bluetooth beacons, apps can infer your location to room-level accuracy in some environments. This is why Android 12 separated this into its own permission — previously it required location permission, making the privacy implications clearer.
Which apps request 'Nearby devices' permission?
Social media apps (Facebook, TikTok, Instagram), smart home apps, and apps with social discovery features commonly request this permission. TikTok's privacy policy lists 'information about nearby Wi-Fi access points' under automatically collected data.
Should I grant 'Nearby devices' permission?
Only grant this permission to apps that have a clear, specific need for it — such as apps that connect to smart home devices or Bluetooth accessories. Social media apps generally do not need this permission for their core functionality. Denying it may disable some features but significantly reduces location tracking risk.