Android Users Can Now Manage Device Logs

New Android 13 feature gives users more control over app access to device logs

Apr. 12, 2026 at 8:36pm

An extreme close-up of a minimalist, matte black Android smartphone with subtle metallic accents, conceptually representing the user's control over device data.The new Android 13 feature empowers users to manage access to their device logs, balancing the needs of app developers and user privacy.Santa Ynez Today

Android 13 introduces a new feature that allows users to control which apps can access the full set of device logs on their phones. This gives users more transparency and privacy over the technical information that may be collected by apps and device manufacturers.

Why it matters

As mobile devices become more powerful and connected, the data collected in device logs has become an important resource for improving app quality and device performance. However, this data can also contain sensitive user information, so giving users more control over log access is crucial for protecting privacy.

The details

The new Android 13 feature allows users to approve or deny one-time access requests from apps that want to access the full set of device logs, known as "all device logs." This more expansive log data can help app developers and device manufacturers identify and fix issues, but it may also contain details about installed apps, usage patterns, and other potentially sensitive information. Users are advised to only grant access to apps they fully trust.

  • Android 13 introduced the new device log access controls in 2026.

The players

Google

The developer of the Android operating system, which is implementing the new device log access controls in Android 13.

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The takeaway

The new Android 13 feature gives users more control over their device data, allowing them to decide which apps can access sensitive technical information from device logs. This is an important step in balancing the needs of app developers and device manufacturers with user privacy concerns.