Why do so many apps use location permissions on a near-constant basis?
Location details are not only used by analytics, but also by advertisements (think of localized ads). Unfortunately, many of those ad/analytics modules are "mal-behaving" and use those details for "profiling" as well.

For some closer details, I've collected information on my Android site:


What’s it all about those modules apps contain? is an article with much background information
Beware those snooping mods! gives some details on modules I found especially intrusive