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Google’s change to SMS, calling permissions is still hobbling popular apps
August 06, 2025
Google announced changes to the way it handlesSMS and calling permissionslate last year, making it tougher for apps to gain your data. Unfortunately, this change hurt quite a few apps with a legitimate need for those permissions.
Some of these apps, likeTasker, were initially caught by the changes. But Googleaddedtask automation apps as an exception, allowing Tasker’s developers to reclaim the permissions.
Now,Android Policereports that popular security app Cerberus is still caught out by these changes, and will need to be updated to remove functionality associated with these permissions. Unfortunately, Google’s application form, which allows developers to secure exemptions, specifically bars security and device locator apps from gaining these permissions.
Cerberus is more capable on paper than Google’s ownFind My Devicefunction. Google’s own app allows you to view your device on a map, play a ringing sound, and erase storage. But we don’t see fancy features like text commands, and the ability to take photos of a thief.
Android Policenotes that Cerberus isn’t the only legitimate app caught out by the change, citingseveralredditthreadsfrom disgruntled developers. A lengthyGoogle Issue Trackerthread also popped up following the search giant’s decision, with loads of users asking Google to either pull the change or make an exception for Cerberus.
Developers have until January 9 to apply for an exemption, but what happens if your application is denied or you miss the boat entirely? “Apps that fail to meet policy requirements or submit a Permissions Declaration Form by June 28, 2025 may be removed from Google Play,” reads an excerpt from Google’sPlay Console Help page.
Even if you’re granted an exemption by Google, the company’s help page states that this only lasts for two months (until March 9). Hopefully the search giant relents and gives Cerberus and other legitimate apps a proper exemption…
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