Why does the Android app require location permissions?

[agataw326]

I don't understand this. And also I want to know how we can be sure our movies and pics aren't getting uploaded to some server.

I bought this camera for making private media of me and my boyfriend.

Agata

[mariustanya · Accepted solution]

Hello @agataw326. If you are using an Android device, the only way to make the GoPro app work is by turning on location services. Such is not the case for iOS devices though. For iOS devices, you can run the app without enabling location service. Hope this helps. 

[aragon1006]

Hi @agataw326

All versions of Android currently running the GoPro App must have Location Services enabled on your phone/device in order for the GoPro App to successfully scan for cameras. Enabling location services does not collect user data, it's only use is to assist in helping your camera locate your mobile device so they can establish a connection. Location services doesn't just work for GPS either, as it can be used for WiFi, sensors and mobile networks as well.

Thanks!

Ej

[agataw326]

Hi. That doesn't make any sense. Doesn't it also connect via bluetooth?

I have location off all the time. I don't want to turn it on just for this.

Are you saying there is no way to use the mobile app without location on?

[mariustanya · Accepted solution]

Hello @agataw326. If you are using an Android device, the only way to make the GoPro app work is by turning on location services. Such is not the case for iOS devices though. For iOS devices, you can run the app without enabling location service. Hope this helps. 

[agataw326]

Thanks for the info. I don't accept this. They should change it.

I'm not going to use the phone app and I will look into other brands from now on.

[sortd]

Also the GoPro Android app takes your location even when the app is not running. Android 10 popped up a warning about the GoPro app stating exactly that. It was the only app that I run that uses the location service when app not even running.

[mariustanya]

Hello @sortd. The location services only need to be enabled when the device is being paired to the camera. Opening the GoPro app only to browse media, for example, will not require the location service to be enabled. Would you have a screenshot showing the messaging that you got? Thanks!

[sortd]

That doesn't seem to be a case. After upgrading to Android 10, Android keeps on popping up a notification saying that the GoPro app accessed your location while in the background (I haven't run the app). It then gives me the option to prevent the app from accessing while in the background.

Little bit creepy, hope you guys can prevent it from getting the location while in the background.