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Verizon to Test AppFlash Search Tool On Some Android Phones

Mar 30, 2017, 5:05 PM by Eric M. Zeman
updated Mar 31, 2017, 10:51 AM

Verizon Wireless is prepared to roll out a new search tool on select Android handsets over the next few weeks. The tool, called Appflash, was developed by Evie. AppFlash will serve as the device's default launcher, or essential home screen experience. Much like the Google Now launcher, AppFlash will take over the left home screen of select Android devices where it will present a search tool for seeking out movies, music, restaurants, apps, as well as on-device content. AppFlash will offer recommendations based on user preferences, which it will learn over time. In order for it to do that, AppFlash will collect quite a bit of user data. According to the company's privacy policy, AppFlash will collect "your mobile number, device identifiers, device type and operating system, and information about the AppFlash features and services you use and your interactions with them." The app also looks at what apps are installed on the device, location data, and contacts. Verizon insists the information is used to improve the AppFlash user experience, but it may also be shared with "the Verizon family of companies," including AOL for advertising purposes. Verizon insists the tool requires an explicit opt-in before it can be used, and that users can prevent AppFlash from collecting location and contact information. AppFlash users will be able to opt-out of certain targeted advertisements, but they won't be able to stop the app from collating basic data points once they give the initial green light. Verizon spokesperson Scott Charlston told Phone Scoop that AppFlash requires only about 20 MB of storage and is being tested in a limited commercial trial rolling out to certain new phones. AppFlash will be preinstalled on these phones before they ship, but end users can disable AppFlash and use the launcher of their choice. Verizon said the LG K20 V is the first phone to ship with AppFlash on board.

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cardboard

May 4, 2017, 11:53 AM

Verizon App Flash

Beware

Verizon Appflash you do not want on your phone.
Its sypware to spy on you.

Verizon will sell your information.

https://android.gadgethacks.com/how-to/opt-out-veriz ... »

Versed

Mar 31, 2017, 1:48 PM

Oye

This crap bloatware should be called AnusFlash because that is exactly what is does, click on the hyperlink on this post and see just what it's all about.

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