This page explains every sensitive permission the Diaspora Link app requests, what it is used for, and when it is active. Permissions are only ever used for the features described below — never for advertising, tracking, or background surveillance.
On Android 14 and later, an app that needs to keep working briefly while it is not on screen must declare a typed "foreground service" and show a persistent notification while it runs. Diaspora Link uses foreground services for exactly one user-facing task: keeping an ongoing voice or video call connected when you lock your screen or momentarily switch to another app during the call.
Active only during a voice or video call that you started or accepted. It keeps your microphone stream alive so the other participants can continue to hear you while your screen is off or the app is in the background. The service stops the moment the call ends, and a call notification is visible the entire time. The microphone is never accessed outside an active call or recording you explicitly start.
Active only during a video call that you started or accepted with your camera turned on. It keeps your video stream alive during brief app switches so the call does not drop. The service stops when the call ends or you turn your camera off, and a call notification is visible the entire time. The camera is never accessed outside an active video call or media capture you explicitly start.
Declared by the real-time calling library the app uses. During an ongoing call it allows the audio of the other participants to keep playing while your screen is locked or the app is backgrounded. It is not used for music or standalone media playback.
IN ALL THREE CASES: the foreground service runs only during a call the user knowingly started or accepted, shows a persistent, dismiss-on-hangup notification, and stops when the call ends. Diaspora Link never records calls and never activates the camera or microphone without an explicit user action.
Video calls, taking photos/videos for posts, reels, listings, and profile pictures. Used only when you open the camera or join a video call.
Voice and video calls and recording video with sound. Used only during calls or recordings you start.
Showing nearby housing, rides, marketplace listings, and connecting you to your community. Requested in context; the app works without it. Your precise coordinates are stored privately and never shown to other users.
Attaching photos and videos you choose to posts, messages, and listings. Access is limited to items you select where the OS supports it.
Message alerts, incoming call alerts, order updates, and community activity. Fully configurable in Settings.
Contact connect@diaspora-link.com with any questions about permissions or data handling. See also our Privacy Policy.