The green dot in the upper right corner of your Android might seem confusing, but don’t worry. We will explain what it is and what it means.
Much like its iPhone competitor, Samsung has designed its Android phones with several important alert icons. Some of these are more intuitive than others, but one in particular that users ask about frequently is the green dot in the upper right-hand corner. Users know it indicates something is on, but they do not always know what feature it is linked to.
Samsung says it has included this feature to help customers feel more in control over their privacy settings. Once you know what it means, you will know whether or not you need to review your phone’s privacy and permissions settings.
What Does the Green Dot Mean?
Unlike iPhones, which have a green dot and an orange dot to differentiate features, Android phones use one icon to signal them all.
If your phone has a green dot in the corner, then one of the apps that you currently have open is using the microphone or camera on your device.
When Is This Normal?
Situation
Normal?
You have the camera app open
Yes
You are on a video call
Yes
You are using a voice recorder
Yes
You are using a navigation app (microphone for voice commands)
Yes
You do not remember giving the app permission
Possibly concerning
While this is not a problem if you currently have the camera open, it might alarm you if you do not remember giving your open apps access to the camera or microphone.
According to Samsung, you can figure out which app is using your camera or microphone in four quick steps.
Mobile & Wireless
Step-by-Step Guide
Step
Action
1
Check the initial notification – When the notification first appears, it will have an icon showing whether the alert is about the camera, the microphone, or both. It will then shrink to just be the dot in the upper right corner.
2
Swipe down on the notification bar to open it
3
Tap on the dot to expand it – This will open a dialogue box that tells you what is being used (camera, microphone, or both) and what app is using them
4
Review and decide – You are good to go if you are fine with the app having and utilizing access. You do not have to take any further steps.
When to Take Action
There may be an issue if you do not remember granting the indicated app access to your camera and microphone.
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Yes
Possibly concerning
