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Android System Webview comes preinstalled on your Android device. It acts as an embedded browser that allows apps to open online links on the app itself without opening the browser.
Chrome powers this application and hence uses the same updates as Chrome. Here’s an example: If you’re tapping on a link in an app, you will immediately see the associated web page within the app. This provides a more seamless experience without opening another browser to view the link.
However, many users are concerned about the potential malicious intentions behind the Android System Webview. In this article, we’ll delve into a few of these misconceptions.
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Is Android System Webview spying on you?
No, Android System Webview is not spyware designed to spy on you. It is merely an embedded Chrome browser.
Usually, spyware requires almost all the permissions like camera access, mic, location, and contacts, among others. Android System Webview, on the other hand, demands no such permissions.
It only requires internet access to work. So, it is safe to say that Android System Webview is not spyware. Moreover, Android System Webview doesn’t run in the background or even collect your data.
Check out the battery usage of the app. Spyware consumes a lot of battery as spyware has to continuously spy on you and send the data to the threat actor.
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Can you remove Android System Webview from your mobile?
Using normal uninstall methods, you cannot remove or uninstall Android System Webview from your mobile.
You will have to root your device and then remove the application. This process is a bit technical, and it is advisable not to do it as removing Android System Webview can create problems like freezing some apps and even crashing.
The apps will also show you a blank webpage once you click a link, as the Android System Webview engine has been uninstalled. Also, you must open a browser whenever you want to view a web link.
However, you can force stop or disable Android System Webview by following the steps given below:
- Head to Settings > Apps.
- Then, search Android System Webview and tap on the app.
- Now, tap on Disable or Force Stop as per your preference.
In conclusion, Android System Webview isn’t spyware or a malicious app. It merely helps in a seamless browsing experience by letting apps open the web links within the app. However, hackers may exploit any vulnerability in Android System Webview, so it is recommended that you update the app as soon as any such vulnerability comes to light.
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