This is probably some kind of configuration mistake… I wouldn’t presume the author has any nefarious intent.

Probably the default in whatever framework they used.

There are very few apps on app stores that don't need network these days. Feel free to check out the details on the settings page on the app.

Instead of explaining why your app needs it, you decided to hand-wave "everyone does this". Peculiar.

Which is why a responsible person avoids the official app stores whenever possible. F-Droid FTW.