The Android and iPhone phones have incorporated a series of visual indicators in the form of green or orange dots that appear in the corner of the screen. These points are intended help you better control your privacy, alerting you when an application is using sensitive functions of your device.
Although the function of these indicators is the same in both operating systems, there are some differences in the way they are presented. Below, we explain in detail what each of these points means and how to interpret their appearance on your mobile.
The green dot on Android phones
On Android devices, the green dot that appears in the upper right corner of the screen indicates that an application is using the microphone, camera or location of your mobile. This point will be displayed whenever an app, whether in the foreground or background, is accessing one of these permissions.
The reason why we have chosen to warn about these three permits in particular is because they are considered the most delicate for your privacy. If an app uses them without your knowledge, it could be recording you, taking photos, or tracking your location without you realizing it. The green dot acts as a delator, alerting you that something like this is happening.
It is important to note that the green dot will appear whether you are actively using the camera or microphone, or if an app is using them secretly. So, don't be surprised if you see it while you're making a call or taking a photo, as this is expected behavior.
The exact way this indicator is displayed may vary depending on the mobile manufacturer. Some Android devices choose to display small icons inside a pill shape, more graphically representing the permission being used through drawings of a camera, microphone, or location pin.
The green and orange dots on iPhones
In the case of iPhones, the visual indicator can be a green or orange dot. Just like on Android, these dots alert you that an app is using a sensitive permission, but each color has a specific meaning.
El green dot on iPhones indicates that the camera Of the device. It will appear when you activate the camera manually, but also when another application is using it, either actively and controlled by you, or in the background without your knowledge.
On the other hand, the punto naranja on iPhones indicates that use is being made of microphone. You'll see it during phone calls or when using apps that require audio, but also if an app is recording without your permission.
The purpose of these flags on iOS is to prevent apps from use the microphone or camera covertly, thus protecting you from possible espionage situations.
How to act when you see green or orange dots
Si notas que el green or orange dot appears on your mobile when you are not actively using the camera, microphone or location, it is time to investigate what is happening. Some actions you can take are:
- Review open applications: See which apps are currently running and close those you are not using.
- check permissions: Check what permissions you have granted to each application and revoke those that are not necessary.
- Buscar información: Investigate if the application in question has any history of misuse of permissions or if there are reports of suspicious behavior.
- Uninstall applications: If you suspect that an app is accessing your camera, microphone, or location without good reason, consider uninstalling it to protect your privacy.
The importance of transparency in the use of permissions
The introduction of these indicadores visuales on Android and iOS is an important step toward greater transparency in apps' use of permissions. By becoming aware of when sensitive features on your device are being used, you can take control of your privacy and make informed decisions about which apps to trust.
However, it is crucial to remember that these points are only a warning tool, and that the ultimate responsibility of Protect your privacy falls on you. Stay vigilant, regularly review your app permissions, and don't hesitate to take action if you suspect misuse.
With the growing concern about privacy in the digital age, features like the green and orange dots on Android and iOS are a constant reminder of the importance of staying vigilant and taking control of our personal information. Take advantage of these tools and stay safe while enjoying all the benefits that modern smartphones offer.
I am Sebastián Vidal, a computer engineer passionate about technology and DIY. Furthermore, I am the creator of tecnobits.com, where I share tutorials to make technology more accessible and understandable for everyone.