Development and Control of Android's Self-Triggering Startup Process

Abstract

Android, as the dominant operating system for mobile devices, has revolutionized how users interact with applications through its open and flexible ecosystem. Among its many features, self-triggering (auto-start) programs play a pivotal role in enhancing user convenience—from automatically launching alarm apps at boot to keeping background services like email sync running seamlessly. However, this functionality is a double-edged sword: while it streamlines daily operations, it also introduces significant security risks, such as unauthorized background data collection, excessive resource consumption, and even malware persistence.
This paper conducts a comprehensive analysis of Android's system architecture and startup mechanisms, laying the groundwork for understanding how auto-start programs are activated. By combining theoretical insights with practical programming demonstrations, we simulate the implementation of a self-triggering program using Android's broadcast intent system, with a focus on the BOOT_COMPLETED signal. From the perspective of application developers, we propose three detailed control strategies—static analysis techniques, programmatic management via system APIs, and command-line utilities—to regulate auto-start behavior. For end-users, we outline actionable security measures, including rigorous source verification, granular permission management, and proactive behavior monitoring.
Through this research, we highlight the critical need for balanced control mechanisms that preserve user convenience while mitigating potential risks. By bridging developer and user perspectives, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of Android system security and provides a framework for future advancements in auto-start program governance.