Windows 11 will now notify users when apps request location
The option is now live in Windows Canary.
Microsoft released its latest Windows Build to the Canary channel, and amongst the new features, such as the scrollable quick settings (which allow you to add more quick actions to the quick settings pane), the build also has a new option: Notify when apps request location.
Spotted by Windows enthusiast, @PhantomOfEarth, the new option comes with a toggle, meaning you’ll have to manually enable/disable it. According to its name, Windows 11 will now notify users when apps request location if the option is enabled.
When enabled, you’ll be notified every time an app requests your current location to work. This could come in handy, as some Windows devices might be traced using these sorts of apps, effectively endangering security and privacy in certain contexts.
The new option can be enabled in Settings, and we’ll show you exactly how.
How to enable the Windows 11’s Notify when apps request location
- Open your Windows 11’s Settings page.
- Go to the Privacy&Security pane, and then head over to the Location panel.
- Once there, scroll down to Notify when apps request location and turn the option on.
Disabling it will make Windows 11 not notify you if an app is blocked from accessing your location. This might also prevent you from knowing why an app that does use your location might not work in the first place.
However, Microsoft says that some of these apps might still work despite them not being able to access the requested location. Although, they won’t be working properly. So it’s good to know before deciding on whether to disable it or not.
So far, the option is live on the Canary Channel, but it will make its way to the stable Windows 11 soon.
What are your thoughts on this? Is it necessary or not? Let us know your opinions in the comments section below.
