Privacy and security
Bluetooth access for apps
Most people call this which apps can talk to nearby devices.
Apps need permission to use Bluetooth, because nearby device signals can be used to work out where you are without using location.
This setting is present on your iPhone.
- We have this path on file but have not yet confirmed it against an official source.
Where to find it - iOS 16 and later
- Settings
- Privacy & Security
- Bluetooth
What it does
The permission covers connecting to accessories and scanning for nearby beacons. Retailers have used Bluetooth beacons for indoor positioning, which is why this became a separate prompt.
What changes
When it is on
The app can connect to and scan for Bluetooth devices.
When it is off
Accessory features in that app stop working.
Should you turn it on?
Good reasons to turn it on
- Headphones, fitness sensors and car kits need it.
Good reasons to turn it off
- A shopping or social app scanning for beacons is tracking your position indoors.
- Revoking it does not affect system pairing in Settings.
Battery
Helps
Privacy
Helps
Performance
No real change
Cellular data
No real change
Storage
No real change
Out of the box: Denied until an app asks.
Questions people actually ask
- Why does a shopping app want Bluetooth?
- Usually to detect beacons in a store and work out where you are. You can refuse without losing anything useful.
If it is not working
- System level Bluetooth pairing in Settings is separate and always works.
- Turning Bluetooth off in Control Centre only disconnects until tomorrow. Use Settings to switch it off properly.