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Getting started

Required permissions

Kaizen Timer asks for two Android permissions. Here's exactly what each does and why.

1. Display over other apps (SYSTEM_ALERT_WINDOW)

What it does

Allows Kaizen Timer to draw the lock-screen overlay on top of every other app. This is the technical foundation of “no bypass” — even if your child opens YouTube during the lock, the overlay sits on top of it.

Why we need it

Without this permission, “time's up” becomes an easily-dismissed notification. With it, the lock is a full-screen modal your child can't swipe away.

Is it intrusive?

No — we only draw the overlay when the timer expires and until the PIN is entered. We don't have a persistent overlay; we don't read anything on the screen; we don't interfere with any other app during normal use.

2. Post notifications (POST_NOTIFICATIONS)

What it does

Lets Kaizen Timer show a persistent notification while the timer is running — so you can see the remaining time without opening the app.

Why we need it

Android 13+ requires explicit permission to post notifications. Without it, the timer still runs (the foreground service keeps it alive) but the notification is invisible.

Other permissions (declared but not sensitive)

  • WAKE_LOCK — keeps the device awake while the timer ticks. Standard for any countdown app. No prompt needed.
  • FOREGROUND_SERVICE — runs the timer as a foreground service so it survives app-kill. No prompt needed.
  • USE_BIOMETRIC — only if you enable biometric unlock. Prompts when you tap the biometric setting.
  • RECEIVE_BOOT_COMPLETED — lets the app restore a running timer across device reboots. No prompt.
  • POST_NOTIFICATIONS — already covered above.

What we DON'T ask for

We explicitly do not request:

  • Internet access beyond license verification (no analytics, no crash reporting, no ads)
  • Location
  • Contacts, calendar, SMS, call logs
  • Camera, microphone
  • Device admin rights
  • Accessibility service

Changing permissions later

Android Settings → Apps → Kaizen Timer → Permissions. Revoke anything you want; the app will prompt again next time a feature needs it.