One of the novelties that were not known to date in Android Marshmallow is that with this new version of the operating system, the option is added to better control a section that was not possible until now: popup windows. This offers the user the possibility of better manage what is displayed above of the app that is running by developments that send messages in this way.
The truth is that this is important, since although the pop-up messages are a distinctive feature of Google's operating system, which provides flexibility and distinction to this work of the Mountain View company, it is no less true that sometimes the number of works that have access to sending a pop-up window is excessive and can become a real problem for the simple handling of a phone and tablet. Therefore, in Android Marshmallow including this possibility is a success (this has been seen in the third test version that is being used right now).
However, for the time being, the management of this permission will not be carried out with the new system implemented to control sections in the applications, where access to contacts and Wi-Fi connectivity can be easily managed. In this case, it's a bit more complicated. complejo (but very effective, it must be said). Specifically, the options will be available at the API level, which will give developers a lot to say here, and everything points to the fact that it will be from the same card that the configuration can be established via a shortcut.
Greater control
The truth is that with the inclusion of this option, which will finally have to be seen how it is being implemented in the applications themselves, greater control over what is displayed on the screen is allowed. It will even be possible revert permissions that an untrusted development has with respect to what it shows on screen (some overlays seek deceive the user). The fact is that now managing pop-up windows in Android Marshmallow It will be very similar to how accessibility management or device control settings are known. A success, there is no doubt.
It is important to note that the applications in question will have to go adapting to new requirements of Android Marshmallow, something that is already happening as demonstrated by musicXmatch has already begun to take the necessary steps to be prepared when the arrival of the new version of the Mountain View company's operating system becomes a reality (as confirmed by Sebastiano gottardo, developer of this work). That is to say, the new management of the popup windows is a reality.
How to manage who can appear on top
Marshmallow introduced permission overlap (Draw over other apps), key for windows that are displayed on top of others. Although the control is exposed at the API level, as users we can review and restrict which apps use it from Settings.
- Opens Settings > Applications > tap the menu Special access > enters Appear on top of other apps.
- Check the list and deactivate permission on apps that don't need overlays or show you intrusive ads.
- In some manufacturers (for example, Samsung) the section may be called Show aboveThe route is similar within Special access.
- If an app abuses pop-up notifications, long press the notification and adjust the channel or block it from there.
Block pop-ups and redirects in browsers
In addition to the system level, browsers include protection. In Chrome for Android pop-ups remain blocked by default and when it happens, a appears icon by indicating it in the address bar. Keep in mind that not all Pop-ups are spam: Some legitimate sites use them to display content.
- Opens Chrome > menu of three points > Configuration.
- Go to Privacy & Security > Site Settings > Pop-ups and redirects and leave it in locked.
- Manage the Notifications en Site Settings > Notifications to prevent requests and clean up exceptions from annoying sites.
- For a specific site, use the padlock or the pop-up blocked notice and allow/block as needed.
If you continue to experience interruptions while browsing, clear temporary data: Android Settings > Applications > Chrome > Storage and cache > Clear cache. In Samsung Internet, go into Settings > Websites and downloads tab and activate Block pop-up windows; you can also add a ad blocker from its own menu. In Microsoft Edge For Android: three-dot menu > Configuration > Site Permissions > Pop-ups and redirects and disable it. Chrome may even withdraw notification permissions of inactive sites and will notify you when this happens.
Detect and remove problematic apps and intrusive ads
If you still see ads after adjusting system and browser permissions, it's probably a app is generating them. Avoid tapping the pop-up and act from Settings.
- Identify the source: display the Notification bar, long press the alert and go to the adjustments from the channel or app that broadcasts it.
- Check the permission of Appear on top y disable it in the suspicious app (Special Access path indicated above).
- If an app prevents you from uninstalling, go to Settings > Security > Device Manager Apps, revokes the permission and then uninstall it from Applications.
- Optionally use the Safe Mode to check if the ads disappear; if they don't appear, an installed app is responsible.
As a reinforcement, install a ad blocker reliable from Google Play, check periodically permits of your apps and keep the updated software to minimize risks and inconveniences.
It seeks to provide a greater control users of what is happening in the operating system, something very positive and appreciated. Furthermore, the way to achieve this is not complex, although it is not part of the “permits on demand” that are part of the game in Android MarshmallowWhat do you think of this feature and the additional options for shielding notifications, redirects, and overlays on a daily basis?