HTC's user behaviour logging, explained

In 2011 it was reported that logging components on certain HTC Android phones recorded activity such as app use and other device detail, and that other apps on the phone could potentially read that record. The report prompted a wider question: what is a phone maker's own software writing down about you?

What was claimed

According to the reports, the logging was meant for diagnostics. The concern was how much it kept and how easily other software could reach it. HTC was described as having issued updates in response. We have not tested any handset ourselves, so read this as a summary of reporting, not a finding.

What it means for a phone today

• Diagnostic and usage logging is still common. See what phones log.
• Some of it can be limited in settings. Pick your system on the phones list.
• Replacing the software changes who does the logging, and carries its own risks. See custom ROMs and privacy.

The full dated sequence is on the HTC logging timeline.