The Right Way to Ask Users for iOS Permissions

The Right Way to Ask Users for iOS Permissions

Asking users for iOS permissions can be a delicate task. You want to ensure that you are providing a seamless user experience while also obtaining the necessary permissions for your app to function properly. In this article, we will explore different approaches to asking for iOS permissions and highlight the most effective strategies.

The Initial Blitzkrieg (Not Recommended)

One approach that is not recommended is bombarding users with permission requests right from the start. This can overwhelm users and create a negative first impression. Our biggest takeaway from this approach is simple - don't ask a user for access until you really need it, and make sure it's crystal clear what they will get in return. Users are more likely to grant permission if they understand the value they will receive in exchange.

Getting Access the First Time is Critical

When asking for permissions, timing is crucial. The first version of Cluster, a social networking app, took the approach of requesting permissions upfront. However, this resulted in only about 30-40% of users accepting the request. This low acceptance rate highlighted the need for a different approach.

The Benefit Explanation (Sub-Optimal)

To improve the acceptance rate, Cluster implemented a benefit explanation strategy. They provided users with a clear explanation of the benefits they would receive by granting access. This approach increased acceptance from less than 40% to 66%. While this improvement was significant, there were still users who denied access.

We've learned from Cluster's experience and have realized the importance of asking for permission only when absolutely necessary. For example, when asking for access to photos, only 46% of people who initially denied access ended up granting it when asked at a later, more appropriate time. This highlights the need for a more strategic approach to requesting permissions.

Double System-Style Dialogs

One effective strategy is the implementation of double system-style dialogs. This approach involves presenting users with two options - "Give Access" or "Don't Allow" - in a clear and concise manner. The data shows that only 3% of users who clicked "Give Access" clicked "Don't Allow", meaning less than 2% of total users denied access at a system level. This demonstrates that users are more likely to grant permission when presented with a straightforward choice.

Educational Pre-permission Overlays

Another successful approach is the use of educational pre-permission overlays. These overlays provide users with helpful information about why the app needs certain permissions before actually asking for them. This approach has been shown to increase permissions allowance close to 100% in testing with real users. By educating users about the necessity of certain permissions, they are more likely to grant access.

User Triggered Dialogs (The Most Successful)

Perhaps the most successful strategy is the use of user-triggered dialogs. This involves asking for permission at the exact moment when the user is trying to perform a specific action that requires that permission. For example, asking users for photo access after they tap the camera and "Choose Photos" has been shown to increase the acceptance rate from 67% to 89%. This approach capitalizes on the user's intent and increases the likelihood of them understanding the need for permission.

We also found that when users are clearly trying to access their own address book, 100% of users accept the Contacts access when prompted. This highlights the importance of context and relevance when asking for permissions.

During user testing, we observed a 100% success rate in obtaining iOS push notification permission after users tapped "Notify Me". This demonstrates the power of timing and targeting specific actions to increase permissions allowance.

In conclusion, asking users for iOS permissions requires a thoughtful and strategic approach. By considering the timing, providing clear benefits, and incorporating educational overlays or user-triggered dialogs, you can significantly increase the acceptance rate. Here are three actionable pieces of advice to keep in mind:

1. Only ask for permissions when absolutely necessary and provide clear explanations of the benefits users will receive.
2. Consider using double system-style dialogs to present users with a straightforward choice.
3. Implement user-triggered dialogs to ask for permission at the exact moment when the user is trying to perform a specific action.

By following these guidelines, you can create a positive user experience while also obtaining the necessary permissions for your app to function effectively.