Access Dots – Android 12/iOS 1 as it’s not an official feature in either operating system. However, I can share information based on the app “Access Dots” available on the Google Play Store:
What is Access Dots?
Access Dots is a third-party app available for Android devices that aims to mimic a feature introduced in iOS 14. It displays a visual indicator (dots) on the screen whenever a third-party app accesses your camera, microphone, or GPS location. This can help you be aware of when apps are using these sensitive permissions and potentially take action if you’re uncomfortable with it.
Key features (based on the app description):
- Displays dots on the screen when camera, microphone, or GPS is accessed by a third-party app.
- Maintains an access log for past app activity.
- Offers customization options, including the ability to change the color and position of the dots.
Important points to consider:
- Access Dots is a third-party app and not a native feature of Android.
- It requires enabling Accessibility Service, which grants the app broad permissions to access your device data.
- The app is still in early beta, meaning it might have bugs or unexpected behavior.
- While it can provide an additional layer of awareness, it’s crucial to remember that apps can still access these permissions even if the dots aren’t visible (e.g., background processes).
Alternatives:
- Android 12 introduced a privacy indicator in the notification bar that briefly appears when an app uses the camera or microphone.
- You can review and manage app permissions directly in your device settings.
It’s important to be cautious when installing third-party apps, especially those requesting extensive permissions. Always research the app developer and reviews before installing.
