Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
The green dot on a Samsung phone running Android 12 or later means an app is currently using the camera, microphone, or both. To see which app, swipe down to open Quick Settings and tap the indicator. If the access is unexpected, check that app’s permissions in Settings.
What the green dot tells you
Samsung describes the dot as a real-time notice that an app is using the camera or microphone. Google’s Android documentation likewise says an indicator appears in the status bar when an app accesses either sensor on Android 12 or higher. The dot can relate to the camera, the microphone, or both.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
It is an access indicator, not proof of wrongdoing. It tells you a sensor is in use; by itself, it does not show that audio or video was saved, sent over a network, or used maliciously. If the access surprises you, first check whether you are in a call, using voice input, recording, or using another feature that needs the sensor.
How to identify the app using the camera or microphone
- When the dot appears, swipe down from the top of the screen to open the notification shade or Quick Settings.
- Tap the green indicator or sensor icon. The current app or apps using the camera or microphone should be shown.
- If you still need context about access, open the Privacy Dashboard in Settings, where supported, to review recent camera and microphone access.
The exact appearance and labels can vary by Galaxy model and software version. Google describes selecting the icon in Quick Settings to view apps currently using the sensors; Samsung’s support instructions similarly say to open the notification bar and tap the dot.
#1 Best Overall
- Privacy Protection and Lens Care: Avoid private information from hacking while preventing dust-fall and scratching of the camera lens
- Multiple Compatibility: Suitable for Logitech webcam C920x, C920, C922, C930e, C922x Pro Stream HD Camera
- Artful Design: Modeled and designed exclusively to fit the above devices from Logitech and make it more stylish
- Easy Flip Mechanism: Can be turned 180 angle and easily take the cover off when flipping more than 180
- Simple Installation: Attaches securely to your Logitech webcam without leaving residue, allowing for quick and hassle-free setup
How to review or revoke an app’s permission
Permission Manager lets you inspect sensor access and change it for a particular app. Samsung documents different menu routes in different markets, so use Settings search for “Permission manager” if neither route below matches your phone.
- Samsung Saudi Arabia route: Settings > Privacy > Permission Manager, then select Camera or Microphone.
- Samsung Australia route: Settings > Apps > More options > Permission manager, then select the relevant permission category.
Choose the app to review its permission, then change or revoke access if it does not need that sensor. The app may lose features that depend on camera or microphone access.
Rank #2
- Privacy Protection: CloudValley webcam cover is designed for those who prioritize privacy, security, and peace of mind when using laptops, tablets, and computers
- Fashion Design: The space aluminum alloy webcam cover features a subtle design which compliments the beautiful aesthetic of top devices
- Ultra-Thin Design: Measures only 0.023 (0.6 mm) inch thin, ensuring it does not interfere with closing your laptop or device while providing reliable camera coverage
- Broad Compatibility: Works flawlessly with most laptops (MacBook, HP, Dell, Asus, Acer, Lenovo), All-in-One PCs and leading tablets including iPad, Surface Pro, Galaxy Tab, Fire HD, and Google Pixel Tablet
- Simple to Use: Only need to align to the webcam, attach and press it firmly for 15 seconds. Does not interfere with web use or indicator light
App permission or device-wide sensor control?
| Control | Scope | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Change a permission in Permission Manager | One selected app and sensor | That app can no longer use the sensor unless you grant access again. |
| Turn off Camera access or Microphone access | All apps using that sensor | Apps are blocked from that sensor until you turn access back on. |
On supported Android 12 or later devices, camera and microphone access can each be disabled device-wide from Quick Settings or the Privacy section of Settings. Samsung also documents controls in the Quick Panel. Search Settings for “Camera access” or “Microphone access” if the control is not obvious. Blocking a sensor can interrupt calls, video meetings, camera apps, voice messages, and other features that rely on it.
If the dot is missing or the menus differ
Samsung says the indicator feature is available on its devices running Android 12 or later. If you expect to see it but do not, Samsung recommends checking for a device software update. The absence of a dot alone is not enough to diagnose whether a particular app or device is working as expected; support and interface details depend on the Android version, Galaxy model, and software.
Rank #3
- Note: Not suitable for MacBooks released after 2023 or devices with a protruding front camera; Not applicable to full-screen or notch-style tempered glass screen protectors; Do not use on the rear camera of the phone.
- 💻 Why Do You Need a Webcam Cover Slide? — Safeguard your privacy by covering your webcam with our reliable webcam cover when not in use. Don't let anyone secretly watch you. Stay protected!
- ✅ Thin & Stylish — Enhance your laptop's functionality and aesthetics with our 0.027" ultra-thin webcam covers. Seamlessly close your laptop while adding a touch of sophistication.
- ✅ Fits Most Devices — Compatible with laptops, phones, tablets, desktops! Keep your privacy intact on Ap/ple, Mac/Book, iPh/one, iP/ad, H/P, L/novo, De/ll, Ac/er, As/us, Sa/msung devices.
- ✅ 365 Days Protection — Our upgraded 3.0 adhesive ensures a strong hold that won't damage your equipment. Experience reliable, long-term privacy protection day in and day out.
Samsung’s support pages are market-specific, and exact Settings labels can differ across regions and One UI releases. Use Settings search for “Permission manager,” “Camera access,” or “Microphone access,” or consult the manual for your Galaxy model.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 【Protect Privacy Security】Focusing on network security, now we can easily and effectively protect personal and family privacy security , Just gently slide the slide and close the camera, you can stop the intrusion of hackers.
- 【 Ultra Thin Design】The new ultra-thin design, with a thickness of only 0.022 inches, is made of flexible ABS material and is not fragile. Will not affect the closing of the laptops and scratch the laptops.
- 【Easy to install】 Strong adhesive makes the cover not fall, keep the screen clean and free of stains during installation, tear off the adhesive tape on the back, align it with our camera, and press hard for 10 seconds to work.
- 【Compatible with 】Compatible with camera for Laptop, tablet, computers, Echo Show and Apple Devices,as: MacBook Pro,Macbook Air,iMac ,Mac mini,iPad,MacBook Air, iPhone 6/7/8 Plus etc front camera .
- [What you get] 6 pack black webcam covers.
Rank #4
- 【Premium Webcam Cover】This webcam privacy cover is an accessory of computer webcam. No worry about interfering with web camera lens use or indicator light; No damage to your device in any way as well. A helpful privacy protector and dust separator
- 【Privacy Protector】Slide the web camera cover over your webcam lens when not in use, and prevents web hackers from Spying on you. It is perfect to provide privacy security and peace of mind to individuals, groups, organizations, companies and governments. It also protects your camera lens from dust, and keeps it in high-definition resolution all the ways
- 【Durable Material】The web cam cover is made of high-strength plastic, which ensures that your privacy is protected for a long and lasting period of time. The back of the web camera privacy cover slide also has a strong 3M adhesive layer. It helps the privacy protector stick firmly to your device. The most convenient, super thin design, and extra mini size, make it perfectly combine with your devices
- 【Wide Compatibility】This webcam cover is compatible with most popular webcams with flat area surrounding lens or with protruding lens, such as Logitech HD Pro Webcam C920 C920x C930e and C922, Logitech C615 and C270 (NOT fit Logitech C910, B910, C310). It can be also used as a cover for the peep hole on door
- 【For Logitech Webcam Cover】 The streamcam cover kit comes with 2 pack. Please clean the lens surface before applying. Make sure the mounting surface is cleaned completely so that it sticks properly and firmly
Sources
- Samsung Saudi Arabia: What does the green dot mean on my Samsung phone and how do I control it (updated April 23, 2026).
- Google Android Developers: Behavior changes: all apps | Android 12.
- Google Android Developers: Explain access to more sensitive information (last updated October 1, 2026 UTC).
- Samsung Australia: Green Camera & Microphone Icon appearing on my Galaxy Phone (updated September 9, 2026; Australian Galaxy variants).
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
